West Islip Union Free School District has been accepted into the League of Innovative Schools, a national network of school districts that connects and supports the nation’s most forward-thinking leaders in education. The League is organized by Digital Promise, a global nonprofit working to expand opportunity for every learner by bridging solutions across research, practice and technology.

West Islip was selected from a competitive national pool of applicants based on its educational leadership, demonstrated commitment to excellence, innovative vision for learning, key achievements and collaborative spirit.

By joining The League, West Islip Union Free School District aims to expand access to personalized learning, enhance opportunities in STEM and computer science, further equity in digital learning and build new partnerships that connect research to classroom practice.

“We are honored to join the League of Innovative Schools and to be recognized for our district’s forward-thinking approach to education,” said West Islip Union Free School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Romanelli. “This partnership will allow us to collaborate with other visionary leaders, access new technologies, and bring innovative practices into our classrooms to better prepare our students for the future.”

As a member of the League, West Islip will have access to unique, innovative professional learning opportunities and resources, including:

• Cutting-edge technology and innovations.
• Pilot programs for new learning and teaching models.
• Year-round learning collaboratives, working groups and regional gatherings.
• National conferences featuring school visits and deep-dive sessions.
• Networking with other forward-thinking education leaders to share best practices and generate real-world solutions.

The League of Innovative Schools equips superintendents and district leaders to help shape the future of teaching and learning through collaboration, shared expertise and innovation.

“Education leaders are constantly navigating new challenges, and no one should have to do it alone,” said Jillian Doggett, director of network support at Digital Promise. “The League provides superintendents and other district leaders a trusted community where they can share effective strategies, pilot new innovations, and find real-world solutions. It's about collective impact. Together, we're not just innovating; we're shaping the future of public education for students in our districts and across the country.”

This year’s 2025–26 cohort of League members is the largest to date, with 35 new districts added. With the addition of this cohort, the League now represents 175 districts across 35 states, collectively serving more than 4.4 million students.