It’s an initiative that aims to boost student interest in Science, Technology, Math and Engineering across the state. The Master Teachers program is also aiming to ensure teachers perform at their highest level.
More than 250 current Math and Science teachers will be chosen from the Mid-Hudson, North Country, Central New York and Western New York regions to participate in the program, where they’ll mentor undergraduate education students and early career teachers.
Buffalo State was chosen as the base camp for the master teachers in the Western New York region. Dean of the School of Education at Buffalo State Wendy Paterson says the program will also develop workshops and additional coaching opportunities.
“This focuses on Math and Science where we really need the support in doing two things. First, attracting talented people into the profession and then supporting them with best practices,” said Paterson.
The selected Master Teachers will be working in schools K-12 throughout the region and receive a $15,000 annual stipend for four years. Paterson said the teachers will also participate in research and professional development for themselves through Buffalo State and the University at Buffalo. She says it’s crucial to boost interest in STEM subjects.
“When you find a teacher of mathematics or a teacher of science who is skilled, who’s passionate, insightful, inspiring, that is worth everything. It can mean the difference between a student graduating from high school and going on to a professional career and that student not,” said Paterson.
Eligible teachers must be ranked “highly effective,” have a minimum of 4 years teaching experience, hold a NYS teaching certification and have their primary teaching responsibilities be in the areas of math and science in grades six through twelve.
Applications for the Master Teacher positions will be available from July 1st on the NYSED.GOV website. The first selection will be announced by September.
SUNY Plattsburgh, SUNY New Paltz and SUNY Cortland were also chosen to be base camps for their respective region.