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Inside the Sunrise Seminar 2025

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Inside the Sunrise Seminar 2025

On Thursday, September 25, 2025, educational leaders from across Erie County gathered at The Powerhouse in Buffalo for Erie 1 BOCES’ fourth annual Sunrise Seminar. The event offered a vibrant morning of professional development centered on the theme Empowered Schools: Expression, Equity, & Student Safety. 

Hosted by Erie 1 BOCES, the seminar welcomed attendees for a series of sessions designed to address some of the most pressing issues in education today. The morning began with opening remarks from Dr. Michael Capuana, District Superintendent and CEO of Erie 1 BOCES, who emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive, safe, and expressive school environments. 

Throughout the event, attendees explored a range of topics, from navigating student conduct and First Amendment rights to managing library book challenges and supporting the emotional and mental health needs of English Language Learners. Experts from Erie 1 BOCES led these discussions, with featured insights from various school districts, including Buffalo Public Schools, Grand Island Central School District, and Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District.  

Sessions also addressed proactive approaches to student safety, including the implementation of programs from Sandy Hook Promise and strategies for building positive school climates. The seminar concluded with updates on the expansion of Instructional Services, highlighting new opportunities for district collaboration and support. 

Adding a unique and inspiring dimension to the event, high school students from the Erie 1 BOCES’ New Visions Legal Academy program were also in attendance. Their presence brought fresh energy to the seminar and offered a firsthand look at how future leaders are engaging with the critical issues shaping education today. These students observed sessions, interacted with presenters, and gained valuable exposure to the professional conversations that influence school policy and practice. 

As the seminar came to a close, attendees were thanked for their participation and commitment to student well-being. Erie 1 BOCES extends its sincere appreciation to the featured districts for their leadership and contributions. Their voices helped make this year’s Sunrise Seminar a powerful reflection of what it means to empower schools through expression, equity, and safety. 

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