The Appreciation Award is given in recognition of an active members' efforts on behalf of the New York State Council of School Superintendents and its initiatives. This year we honor an outstanding superintendent who has provided exceptional leadership, contributed important ideas, and given freely of her time while continuing to to actively serve NYSCOSS and LEAF, Inc.
2026 Appreciation Award Recipient
Dr. Jason A. Andrews, Superintendent
Windsor Central School District
We are proud to honor Dr. Jason A. Andrews, Superintendent of Windsor Central School District as this year's Appreciation Award recipient. Jason’s outstanding contributions to our organization and his unwavering dedication to advancing its mission make him truly deserve this recognition.
He built his career around service, collaboration, and strengthening the work of school leaders across New York State. A deeply committed and longtime NYSCOSS leader—serving as President in 2023–2024—Jason has contributed in meaningful ways to almost every corner of the organization. His service on the LEAF, Inc. Board of Directors, including his role as the 2025–26 Board President, reflects his strong belief in developing capable, confident leaders statewide.
He has played a key role in shaping programs that support early-career superintendents and strengthen cabinet-level leaders, while also helping to grow the Aspiring Superintendents offerings, Future Superintendents Academy, and New Superintendents Programs through hands-on coaching and practical guidance.
Jason has also contributed significantly to the By-Laws Committee, NYSCOSS Executive Committee, House of Delegates and the Commissioner’s Advisory Council, Conference Committee and the Distinguished Service Committee. He currently serves on the AASA Governing Board representing our state on the National level and the National Center for Educational Research and Technology Board.
We will honor Jason during the Sunday Opening Keynote at our 2026 Winter Institute & Lobby Day on March 1, 2026. This award is sponsored by Partner Mosaic Associate Architects for sponsoring this year's award.
2027 Award Nomination Process
Individuals are nominated by a colleague in the field of education, by an active member of The Council, or a Council staff member.
Final selections are made by the Distinguished Service Committee and presented at our Winter Institute & Lobby Day each year. A selected individual:
- Volunteers time on behalf of NYSCOSS (e.g., offers webinars and workshops, participates actively on a committee, etc.).
- Has been active with several activities throughout their membership.
- Is recognized in education as an leader (e.g., by colleagues, in his/her community, by NYSCOSS).
- Is nominated by a colleague or Council staff.
The Distinguished Service Committee, composed of current Council presidents and past presidents who are active superintendents, screen all nominations for selection of one candidate. Review a complete list of Appreciation Award recipients here.
For details or to nominate an individual contact:
Deidre G. Hungerford
Associate Director for Business Development
E: deidre@nyscoss.org
T: 518.694.4885
Twitter: @deehungerford28 #NYSCOSSWell