About Us

What is the WNYRIC?

WNYRIC is an acronym for Western New York Regional Information Center, a regional public education service organization. There are 12 RICs statewide. The WNYRIC serves over 100 school districts covering 7 counties (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara, Orleans and Steuben) in the western region of New York State.

Our Mission

The WNYRIC is an information and learning technology service provider that delivers technical support, resources and solutions for school districts, communities, and various other partners to enhance learning and manage the total educational environment.

Our Vision

The WNYRIC provides cost-effective technology solutions to support and enhance learning. We foster a climate of trust through responsive decision-making and communication. Our diverse partners understand who we are and what we do.

Our Beliefs

We Believe

...in risk-taking
...in continuous evaluation and improvement
...that modeling best practices is critical
...that staff must be well-informed, and we must create a supportive climate for this
...excellent communication is imperative
...that we provide "added-value" services
...that we are an extension of our districts
...our success is based on the successes of our partners
...that building positive relationships with our partners is the key to our effectiveness
...in providing a diverse array of service options
...that we must lead in the area of technology
...that we must provide cost-effective services

Adopted April 18, 2009, by WNYRIC Advisory Council

What is a Regional Information Center?

The Regional Information Centers (RICs) are organized under the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). Regional Information Centers offer 21st century classroom tools to optimize student achievement.

The RICS make a wider range of technology available to school districts by regionalizing services and negotiating contracts that include NYS Education Law 2d Requirements. This cost-effective system increases the buying power of a district, promotes consistent technical standards and lightens the burden placed on local taxpayers. It also levels the playing field so that no matter the size of a district, the best resources remain within reach for New York students.

How can the WNYRIC help?

As non-profit organization designed solely to serve the needs of school districts, the centers offer a variety of affordable high quality instructional and administrative services. From designing technology platforms to training personnel, selecting appropriate software programs to providing a high-speed telecommunications networks, the WNYRIC helps districts remain on the cutting edge of technology in education.

We are staffed by experienced professionals who are familiar with national and state initiatives. We work in collaboration with the NYS Education Department and assist districts in meeting State reporting requirements. Our goal is to maximize the quality of instruction and to improve learning; efficiency and effectiveness of educational institutions; and to enhance the decision-making process.

"Committed to collaboration, communication, and innovation in support of the educational environment."