A new education campus designed with purpose and intentionality: empowering students of all abilities to thrive

very student deserves a learning environment tailored to their unique strengths and needs. The demand for specialized resources is increasing. According to NYSED data, the rate of students classified with special education needs has increased by 14% over the
last decade, creating waitlists and
pushing local agencies to operate at maximum capacity.

Erie 1 BOCES has a solution. The upcoming Instructional Services Expansion is set to construct a one-of-a-kind campus designed to serve students of all abilities across the region. This innovative project represents a response to the urgent demand for more inclusive and comprehensive educational services. It also addresses the critical need for expanded special education programming in our community.

A commitment to every student’s success: a place to thrive.

Located at 2911 Walden Ave., the renovated, one-story campus will sit on 12 acres and span 219,000 square feet. The space is purpose-built with the future in mind: flexible, inclusive, and designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners. When construction finishes in 2027, it will emerge as one of the largest educational campuses in New York State.

“After nearly three years of collaboration, we stand at a defining moment,” said Dr. Michael Capuana, District Superintendent and CEO of Erie 1 BOCES. “The commitment and support of our 19 component superintendents and boards of education have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. This cooperative initiative demonstrates forward-thinking and unity in meeting the evolving needs of our students.”

“The new campus will be a space where every detail—from wide corridors, calming nooks, and 68 specialized classrooms to therapeutic rooms, outdoor courtyards, and unique learning labs—is designed to empower students of all abilities,” said Christa McHale, Erie 1 BOCES director of educational partnerships and Workforce Development programs. “It’s a place where students will not just learn, but thrive in an environment built around their specific needs and the teachers who support them.”

Designed for all students: a place of belonging.

The new Instructional Services campus promises to be more than just a school. It’s a beacon of innovation, excellence, and a model for educational inclusivity. Thanks to a strong partnership with our 19 component districts, the campus will serve over 500 students, including those currently enrolled in Northtowns Academy, Winchester Academy, and
EDGE Academy. Additionally, the campus will be home to a broad range of services and programs, from special education to alternative education, career and technical education, teacher preparation programs, and a host of collaborations with higher education institutions, all designed to provide an unparalleled educational experience for our students and staff.

In partnership with Kideney Architects, Buffalo Construction Consultants, and Benderson Development, the new campus consolidates many of Erie 1 BOCES’ services under one roof. This centralized hub maximizes learning space, storage, and operational efficiency, all while fostering collaboration and growth.

One of the standout features of this expansion is the significant cost savings achieved by selecting an existing property with major utilities already in place. This allows us to prioritize our resources on creating a safe and secure environment where students and staff can focus on what truly matters: the education and well-being of all students.

Throughout the planning and design phases, Erie 1 BOCES has worked closely with the Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) and a core group of superintendents, teachers, related service providers, transportation officials, and instructional technology professionals. Their input has been crucial in shaping the layout and design of the classrooms, ensuring that every detail serves the best interests of students and staff.

Biophilia and research-driven design:
a place to feel welcome.

The design of the Erie 1 BOCES Instructional Services campus was driven by a deep understanding of the needs of students with physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Research into sensory environments revealed that overwhelming, sensory-rich spaces
could be distracting and even stressful
for many students. As a result, the campus’ corridors will feature soft natural colors, subdued patterns, and acoustic treatments designed to reduce triggers and enhance focus.

“Reducing stressors for both students and staff alike was one of the most important parts of the design, which is why the campus will embody the concept of biophilia or the idea that people have an innate wish to connect with nature,” said McHale. Internal courtyards will provide safe, enclosed outdoor spaces that support the therapeutic needs of students in a controlled and supportive environment. Additionally, interior spaces not only offer views of these courtyards, but also display a nature-inspired mix of materials, colors, textures, and forms.
Each wing of the building will feature its own theme, using color, texture, and graphics to make navigation easier for students and families.

This intentional, thoughtful design ensures that the space will foster a sense of belonging, making every student feel welcome and supported.

A vision for the future: a place for all.

“By maximizing the resources of our 19 component districts, this campus is specifically designed to serve students of all abilities,” said Anedda Trautman, assistant superintendent of Instructional Services. “It encourages creativity, innovation, and the development of programs that can
address the mental and emotional
health needs of all students.”

The Erie 1 BOCES Instructional Services Campus will be more than just a place to learn. It will be a place where every student, regardless of ability, feels a
sense of belonging, support, and hope
for the future.

To all our students, staff, families, and community: this is your place.