Institute Newsletter for March 26, 2026
Dear Colleague,
April is upon us, bringing state testing and the final stretch of the 2025-26 academic year.
Since September, you have worked tirelessly to prepare students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed on these upcoming state assessments. As we move forward, that work continues.
Equally important is fostering a calm, supportive environment so students can perform their best. Regular check-ins, mindfulness activities, movement breaks, and access to mental health supports all play a critical role in reducing stress, reinforcing positive routines, and helping students fully demonstrate what they’ve learned.
As always, do not hesitate to reach out to me or anyone on our staff with questions at [email protected].
Kathryn
School Spotlights
Our World Neighborhood 2 Elementary Authorized as International Baccalaureate Program
The Institute congratulates Our World Neighborhood 2 (OWN 2) Elementary for earning authorization as an IB Primary Year Programme (PYP), which commits to developing students in to globally minded citizens. OWN 2 Elementary becomes the sixth charter in SUNY’s portfolio to earn the distinction, joining OWN Charter High School, Brooklyn Emerging Leaders Academy, Brooklyn Prospect Charter School, Harlem Village Academies High, and Brilla College Preparatory Charter High School Program.
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STEM Vending Machine Fuels Curiosity at Rochester Academy of Science Charter School
Rochester Academy of Science Charter School was recently featured in the local press for its unique approach to STEM:
“Food is fuel for the brain—but that’s not all; science, technology, engineering, and math are, too. Kids at the RocSci Academy will now have the chance to expand their STEM knowledge with a different kind of vending machine. Instead of snacks, this vending machine offers kits for building robots, molding reptile and amphibian magnets from clay, experimenting with the laws of physics through magnetism, and much more…”
Watch the newscast feature on WROC.
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KIPP Capital Region High School Boys Basketball Team Reaches State Final
KIPP Capital Region High School took the Class B section two championship in early March with a resounding victory over Catskill, eventually making it all the way to the state championship. Congratulations to the team, school, and entire KIPP Capital community on an incredible first year of varsity basketball!
Institute Staff Spotlight: Bryan Stroud, School Evaluator
Tell us about your role at the Institute.
I joined the Institute in November 2025 as a School Evaluator. In this role I visit the schools we authorize to conduct evaluations and renewals. During visits, my team and I perform classroom observations, conduct interviews, and review school documents. We use the SUNY Charter Institute authorization benchmarks to make recommendations to the Board of Trustees and to provide objective feedback to school leadership and boards. Being in school hallways and classrooms, connecting with staff, and offering objective feedback to champion school excellence brings me great joy.
What drew you to the Institute and charter school authorizing?
I’m the oldest of three, so leadership and mentorship were responsibilities I embraced early. After graduating from the University of Florida with plans to work in speech-language pathology, my path shifted when I joined Teach For America — Metro Atlanta in 2013. I taught in Atlanta and New Orleans before returning to New York, where I served as principal of an elementary school in Harlem. That role reignited my passion for leadership, mentorship, and education. When I transitioned out of the principal role, I reflected on the school renewal process and researched authorizing work. I was deeply aligned with the Institute’s commitment to holding schools to high standards for students, and I wanted to continue championing strong school communities through SUNY authorization.
What motivates you to continue with this work?
Visiting schools reminds me of my experiences as both a teacher and a leader. I think of the hard work leadership teams, boards, and teachers put in every day to ensure everyone who arrives at a school—big or small—has a joyful, rigorous, and safe experience. Observing that work firsthand, witnessing joy in success and grit in improvement, motivates me daily.
What’s one thing you wish schools knew about the Institute?
I want schools to know the Institute is a true partner—one that problem-solves, supports, and listens. We are here and just a phone call away. I also want schools to understand how thoroughly we review documents, data, and information to provide the most objective feedback possible.
What’s your hidden talent?
“Talent” may be a stretch, but I consider myself a bit of a fashionista: I love blending style with comfort, thrifting, shopping, and mixing pieces to create outfits for any occasion. I am also a certified leadership coach and enjoy helping others harness and amplify their leadership voice.