NYSSBA Honors Baldwin UFSD with Sixth “Champions of Change” Award

The New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) has named the Baldwin Union Free School District a “Champion of Change” for the sixth time, recognizing Baldwin Middle School’s Future Teachers of Baldwin Pre-Academy.

NYSSBA’s Champions of Change program celebrates school districts and BOCES across New York State that implement innovative initiatives with a meaningful impact. Honorees are selected through committee observation and member input, highlighting standout programs without a formal application process.

This latest recognition adds to Baldwin UFSD’s growing list of Champions of Change Awards. Previously recognized programs included Baldwin High School@Shubert’s Future Jewelers Academy, the Baldwin Schools Wellness Center, Brookside Elementary School’s Shark Tank Project, the district’s Hello Neighbor Project, and Baldwin High School’s Education Academy.

“Earning our sixth Champions of Change Award is a proud milestone that reflects our ongoing commitment to innovative, future-focused learning,” said Superintendent Anthony Mignella. “The recognition of Baldwin Middle School’s Pre-Academy Program underscores our district’s commitment to ensuring students are future-ready at every level of their educational journey. We are proud of the work taking place at the middle school and would like to thank Dr. Erica Taylor, Dr. Gabriella Franza, and Mr. Eric Rothbard who have helped make our Education Pre-Academy such a success. We look forward to the continued expansion and evolution of these future-driven educational experiences, which will prepare students for their next chapter in life.”

The Future Teachers of Baldwin Pre-Academy provides eighth graders with hands-on experience as a teacher. Participants develop lesson plans, explore teaching strategies, and deliver instruction to Baldwin elementary students in grades K–5. The program helps the middle school learners explore potential career pathways in education and related fields. The Pre-Academy also serves as an optional pathway to Baldwin High School’s Education Academy—one of seven Academic Academies offered by the district—which is also a Champions of Change Award recipient.

NYSSBA Area 11 Director Charmise Desire presented the Champions of Change banner at the district’s April Board of Education meeting.

For more information on NYSSBA’s awards and recognition programs, visit the organization’s website.

See related:

• NYSSBA Honors Baldwin UFSD with Fifth "Champions of Change" Award
• NYSSBA Recognizes Baldwin UFSD with Fourth "Champion of Change" Award
• NYSSBA Champion of Change Award Presented to Baldwin UFSD
• Baldwin Herald: Baldwin earns sixth Champions of Change award statewide