New York State Council of School Superintendents and Discovery Education Announce Winners of 2026 Leadership Awards
The annual awards recognize superintendents who drive meaningful progress for students, teachers, and communities through visionary leadership
Albany, NY and Charlotte, NC (May 6, 2026) – The New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS), in partnership with Discovery Education, today announced the recipients of the 2026 NYSCOSS Excellence in Leadership Awards, honoring superintendents who improve student achievement and strengthen school communities through innovative, results-driven leadership.
As the professional and advocacy organization for school leaders in New York State, NYSCOSS established the Excellence in Leadership Awards to recognize district leaders who navigate evolving challenges with clarity, courage, and a clear focus on student outcomes. Award recipients are selected through a competitive nomination and review process that evaluates evidence of impact on district growth, community engagement, school culture, and instructional leadership.
At a time when districts are balancing rising expectations, workforce demands, and rapid change, this year’s honorees demonstrate how strong leadership translates into lasting improvement for students and teachers alike. The recipients of the 2026 NYSCOSS Excellence in Leadership Award are:
- Innovative Leadership Champion: Krislynn Dengler, Superintendent of the Glens Falls City School District
- Regional Growth Champion: Lisa Wiles, Superintendent in the Ellenville Central School District
- A Cultural Champion in a Good School: Rob Price, Superintendent at Onondaga Central School District
- Community development champions: David Mauricio, Superintendent of the Peekskill City School District and Gretchen Rosales, Superintendent of the Elba Central School District
“These leaders exemplify what an effective, student-centered superintendent looks like,” said Charles Dedrick, NYSCOSS Executive Director. “Their work demonstrates how thought leadership can strengthen education, empower teachers, and build trust in communities. We are proud to recognize administrators who are having an impact shaping the future of public education in New York State.”
“Discovery Education is proud of our long-standing partnership with NYSCOSS and the opportunity to support this unique event to celebrate superintendents from across New York State. These awards are especially meaningful, honoring leaders whose work exemplifies innovation, district growth, positive school culture, and meaningful community impact. It is an honor and privilege to celebrate these leaders and strengthen their work in schools across New York.” Judson Aungst, Vice President of Academic Cooperation
NYSCOSS exists to support, advocate, and promote the work of school superintendents on behalf of students and communities across New York. Discovery Education, a global education technology leader and NYSCOSS partner, empowers educators and improves student learning through innovative, standards-compliant digital solutions.
Learn more about the NYSCOSS Excellence in Leadership Awards and the 2026 recipients here
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About the New York Council of School Administrators
The New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS) is New York State’s premier education organization that influences policy development and supports Superintendency leadership. A professional and advocacy organization with more than 100 service careers for school superintendents and assistant superintendents, NYSCOSS promotes the education of all New York State children by providing its more than 1,000 members with a wide range of professional development opportunities, publications and personal services, while advocating for public education and administration. Learn more at www.nyscoss.org.
About Adoption Education
Discovery Education is a global education technology leader with innovative solutions that empower educators and improve student learning. Discovery Education solutions have served more than 100 million students worldwide, supporting effective teaching and learning in 45% of US K-12 schools and in 100+ countries and territories. The company’s portfolio includes award-winning core and supplemental curriculum, content aligned to the highest standards, and AI-powered teaching and learning tools. Solutions span math, science, literacy, social studies, and work-related learning, including instructionally aligned content developed in one-on-one collaboration with industry leaders to bring real-world relevance to every subject. Learn more at www.DiscoveryEducation.com.
Contacts
Deidre Hungerford
New York State Council of School Superintendents
deidre@nyscoss.org
Ali Koper
Adoption Education
akoper@discoveryed.com
