Joe Salamone initially aimed for financial stability with a career in finance, never planning to become an educator. However, a pivotal experience during his senior year in college dramatically redirected his path. While substitute teaching in a life skills classroom, Joe quickly realized that education was not merely a profession but his purpose.
Transforming the Educational Paradigm
Throughout his extensive career, Joe has progressed from teacher to principal and now serves as Assistant Director of Career Pathways Programs at Ulster BOCES. His tenure at Hudson Valley Pathways Academy, a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH), was particularly transformative, shaping his educational philosophy. Joe recognized early on the inherent flaws in traditional educational structures that compartmentalize learning.
Joe strongly advocates for integrating high school, college, and workforce experiences to enhance authentic learning. He notes, “When you break down the boundaries between high school, college, and the workforce, students begin to clearly see their future.” He believes strongly in real-world educational experiences that help students transition smoothly from education to their careers.
A Moment of Clarity on the Trail
A significant turning point for Joe came during his time as a principal at a traditional high school during the pandemic. While on a hike with his son, Théo, Joe’s demanding job interrupted their day together, causing noticeable disappointment for Théo. This moment made Joe realize that although he was proud of his accomplishments in improving school culture and raising graduation rates, the traditional school environment no longer resonated with his personal and professional values. Reflecting on this experience, Joe explains, “I realized something had to change.” This realization led him to shift his career toward a role more aligned with integrated, meaningful educational practices and work-life balance, ultimately guiding him into his current role at Ulster BOCES.
Innovating Postsecondary Pathways: The 1, 2, 4, or Service Initiative
Joe’s education leadership approach led him to create the “1, 2, 4, or Service” initiative as part of the NYSACTE Postsecondary State Leaders Fellowship with Advance CTE sponsored by the ECMC Foundation. This innovative program ensures all Ulster BOCES graduates leave with concrete next steps, including at least one job offer, admission to a two-year or four-year college, or a clear service-oriented pathway such as the military or Peace Corps.
Aware of economic barriers significantly restricting student opportunities, Joe prioritizes solutions to those barriers through rigorous evaluations of articulation agreements and proactive collaboration with educational and industry partners. Joe emphasizes, “If we are not actively dismantling financial barriers, we are leaving people behind.”
Cultivating Community Through Belonging and Voice
Joe has championed the crew model at Ulster BOCES, a structured approach focused on community-building and relationship development. He emphasizes student voice and community as foundational elements of the educational experience. According to Joe, “When students feel seen and valued, they step into their professional identities with confidence.” This student-centered environment fosters strong bonds among students, often leading them to describe their peers not merely as classmates but as family.
Leadership and Scalable Impact
Joe’s fellowship vision extends far beyond Ulster County. Through the NYSACTE Fellowship, his goal is to develop a scalable framework that other districts and regions can implement. He actively shares insights and frameworks through professional networks and statewide collaborations, demonstrating a commitment not just to local success but to statewide transformation.
“Leadership isn’t defined by titles,” Joe concludes. “It’s defined by how effectively we break down barriers and build opportunities that ensure every student can clearly see and pursue their future.”
To hear more about Joe Salamone’s journey and his work in supporting students, tune into his full conversation on the NYSACTE Postsecondary Fellowship Podcast, available now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
