Nassau Boces Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Nassau BOCES has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, and governance.

Dedicated to advancing public education, Nassau Boces provides essential resources and innovative programs to 56 school districts, fostering equity and opportunity for all learners across Nassau County.

Leadership Roles at Nassau Boces

  • Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer - James Widmer
  • President - Deborah Coates
  • President of the Board of Trustees - Eric Schultz
  • Chief Information Officer - Clifford Steinberg
  • James Widmer - Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer

    James Widmer, the Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer at Nassau Boces, orchestrates the comprehensive operational framework supporting New York State's largest BOCES. This executive leadership encompasses the efficient delivery of a wide array of educational and support services, including special education and career technical education, to 56 school districts. Widmer's purview includes optimizing resource allocation, streamlining administrative processes, and ensuring the seamless execution of programs that enhance student opportunities. By managing day-to-day operations, James Widmer directly contributes to Nassau Boces' mission of providing innovative and cost-effective solutions. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight ensures that the organization effectively serves its intended clients, local school districts and students, while upholding principles of equity and inclusivity.
    James Widmer

    Deborah Coates - President

    Deborah Coates, the President at Nassau Boces, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the organization's extensive educational and support services. Guiding the mission to enhance public education across 56 school districts in Nassau County, Coates focuses on fostering innovation and ensuring cost-effectiveness in program delivery. This leadership role involves championing initiatives that expand opportunities for students of all ages and abilities, including specialized programs in special education and career and technical education. By setting the organizational vision, Deborah Coates drives Nassau Boces' commitment to equity, inclusivity, and belonging. The President's influence is pivotal in maintaining strong relationships with school districts and advancing the overall educational landscape within the region.

    Eric Schultz - President of the Board of Trustees

    Eric Schultz, the President of the Board of Trustees at Nassau Boces, provides critical governance and oversight for the organization's strategic objectives. Leading the Board, Schultz ensures that Nassau Boces effectively fulfills its mission to enhance public education and opportunities for students across 56 school districts in Nassau County. This executive role involves guiding policy development, approving major initiatives, and ensuring fiscal responsibility in the provision of innovative and cost-effective educational services. By championing the organization's commitment to equity, inclusivity, and belonging, Eric Schultz plays a vital part in maintaining the high standards of service delivery. The President of the Board of Trustees' leadership is instrumental in upholding the integrity and impact of Nassau Boces' extensive support for the educational community.

    Clifford Steinberg - Chief Information Officer

    Clifford Steinberg, the Chief Information Officer at Nassau Boces, directs the strategic implementation and management of all information technology infrastructure. Overseeing the digital backbone of the organization, Steinberg ensures robust, secure, and scalable systems that support the diverse educational and operational needs of 56 school districts. This leadership involves architecting solutions for data management, network security, and technological innovation, directly enabling Nassau Boces' mission to enhance public education. By driving advancements in IT, Clifford Steinberg facilitates access to cost-effective and cutting-edge resources for students and educators, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and belonging across Nassau County. The Chief Information Officer's role is critical in maintaining operational efficiency and fostering a technologically advanced learning environment.
    Clifford Steinberg

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nassau Boces Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Nassau Boces?
    Nassau Boces is led by James Widmer (Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Deborah Coates (President) and Eric Schultz (President of the Board of Trustees).
    Who is part of Nassau Boces’s executive team?
    The executive team of Nassau Boces includes leaders such as James Widmer (Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer), Deborah Coates (President), Eric Schultz (President of the Board of Trustees) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Nassau Boces have?
    Nassau Boces has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Nassau Boces’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Nassau Boces includes roles such as Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer, President, President of the Board of Trustees, Chief Information Officer.