Understanding BOCES
Working Together to Expand Educational Opportunities
BOCES stands for Board of Cooperative Educational Services.
BOCES is a regional public education organization that works in partnership with local school districts. By sharing programs, expertise, facilities and resources, districts can provide students, educators and communities with opportunities that may be difficult or costly to offer independently.
Jefferson-Lewis-Hamilton-Herkimer-Oneida BOCES serves 18 component school districts across the North Country.
We are not a separate school district replacing a student’s home district. Instead, BOCES serves as an extension of our component districts—helping them respond to local needs,broaden educational choices and make the most effective use of public resources….all for the betterment of students in the region.
Why Do School Districts Use BOCES?
A shared approach can help districts:
- Offer programs that require specialized instructors, facilities or equipment
- Provide more educational and career opportuinities for student
- Access expertise that may not be available within an individual district
- Share costs and resources within neighboring school districts
- Respond more effectively to changing student, workforce and community needs
Services are generally developed when districts need specialized resources and can create strong opportunities by working together.
How Shared Services Work
Many services provided to school districts operate through agreements known as Cooperative Services Agreements, commonly called CoSers.
A CoSer allows participating districts to jointly access an approved program or service. Districts choose the service that meets their needs and pay a proportional share of the cost. Depending on the service and state requirements, districts may also be eligible to receive BOCES aid from New York State
The cooperative structure helps districts expand what they can offer while avoiding unnecessary duplication of staff, facilities and equipment.
What BOCES Is-and What It Is Not
BOCES is:
-An educational partner to local school districts
-A provider of shared programs and specialized services
-A place where students can access learning opportunities beyond those available in their home schools
-A public education organization governed by a Board of Education
BOCES is not:
-A replacement for a student's home school district
-A private company or outside vendor
-A one-size-fits-all organization
-A separate group of students known as "BOCES students"
Students remain enrolled in and connected to their home districts while participating in BOCES programs. Districts remain active partners in selecting services, referring students, and shaping regional educational priorities.
BOCES' Strength is Cooperation
When school districts work together, they can create opportunities that reach beyond district boundaries—connecting students with career training, supporting learners with specialized needs, strengthening educators and helping schools operate effectively.
Across every classroom, program and service, Jefferson-Lewis BOCES remains focused on practical education, regional collaboration and meaningful opportunities for lifelong success.
Learn More About BOCES in New York State
Jefferson-Lewis BOCES is one of 37 BOCES organizations serving communities across New York State. While this page provides an overview of who we are and how we serve our region, there is a rich history behind the BOCES model and the role it plays in public education statewide.
Visit BOCES of New York State to learn more about:
-The history and creation of BOCES
-How BOCES supports school districts across New York
-Frequently asked questions
-Statewide programs and initiatives
-Facts and resources about the BOCES system
