Thursday, October 1, 2026
Last week, I had a conversation with a former colleague, now retired from public education, who was curious about the current state of our schools and the pulse of education on Long Island. It was great to reflect on the shared values that have shaped our careers. I emphasized how crucial it is for educators to help students develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes that will prepare them for a successful life beyond school.
Throughout our years working together, we often discussed how the nature of work would continue to change, and while we might not know what jobs would exist in 15 years, we could be certain that students needed certain foundational skills to succeed in a global society. Our conversation reinforced those values, highlighting the ongoing need for education that prioritizes both engagement and essential learning.
A key piece of impactful education is ensuring that students have a voice in their own learning. When they feel heard, they are more likely to take an active role in their education. School shouldn’t be a passive experience, but rather a dynamic one, in which educators guide students in reaching their maximum potential. By allowing students to have input, educators can better tailor the learning process and help students build leadership skills, which are essential for advocating for their future success.
I also reflected on the need for reform in the assessment process. Authentic assessments, in my opinion, are the key to lasting, meaningful learning. Looking back on my own school experience, some of the most impactful learning occurred when I had the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects — such as writing a book in elementary school, developing a peer mediation program in middle school, and filming a physics movie with friends. These experiences not only allowed me to demonstrate my knowledge in creative ways, but also shaped my educational philosophy to this day.
As an administrator, I have witnessed the power of similar authentic assessments. One memorable example involved students creating their own dance performances, complete with original music and choreography. The performance was open to the school community, and students were evaluated using a rubric they developed with their teacher. Afterward, they reflected on what went well and what could be improved. This type of real-world, hands-on learning is far more impactful than a multiple-choice exam.
As we look to the future, the emergence of artificial intelligence presents new opportunities and challenges for educators. While AI can undoubtedly enhance the learning experience, its power cannot be harnessed without the guidance of skilled teachers.
Educators across Long Island are talented at motivating and inspiring students in ways that AI simply cannot replicate. The human connection between teachers and students remains essential for fostering engagement and helping students navigate the complexities of the modern world.
AI may help with certain aspects of learning, but it is ultimately the relationships between students and educators that drive true success.
Collaboration is another cornerstone of successful education. Teachers are the true innovators in our schools, and great ideas spread quickly from one educator to another. Research shows that students learn best when they work with an expert. While AI can provide conceptual knowledge, it is teachers who help students develop the essential skills they need to thrive.
A shift toward an apprenticeship model, in which students learn through experience and action, can be extraordinarily powerful. While we see this model in fields like career and technical education, music, art and athletics, many schools still struggle to incorporate this approach into core academic classrooms. This is an area that needs further exploration and development. We must focus on creating experiences in which students can actively engage in learning, not just passively receive information.
Now more than ever, it’s crucial for educators to experiment with new ideas, collaborate with peers, and find the most effective ways to connect with students. Education is a constantly evolving field, and it is essential that we reflect on our practice, staying true to the joy and purpose that initially drew us to teaching.
As I ended my call with my former colleague, I couldn’t help but be optimistic. While our students and the world they live in continue to change, the commitment of Long Island’s educators leaves me hopeful about the future.
Paul Romanelli, Ed.D., is superintendent of the West Islip Union Free School District.
