LARRA AGATE
RED HOOK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Larra Agate earned her BA in Biology from Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and MSEd from Sage Graduate School in Troy, New York. Mrs. Agate has been in the classroom for 18 years, and she teaches Life Science and Regents Living Environment at Linden Avenue Middle School in the Red Hook Central School District. A strong advocate for the education of the middle level child, she fosters her students’ appreciation and love for the sciences. Her favorite part about teaching STEM is that each year she can try new experiments, develop new and innovative labs, and build on previous experiences. The excitement of the students, those “ah-hah” moments when they have discovered something new, makes the profession richly rewarding. When she isn’t teaching, Mrs. Agate is busy being a musician. Her primary instrument is flute, but she also plays the piano. Most importantly, she is “Mom” to two girls (10 and 6). They are both scientific and musical! A favorite quote of Mrs. Agate is “Most people say it is the intellect which makes a great scientist. They are wrong: it is character.” –Albert Einstein.
ALISON ANDOLINO
KINGSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT
Alison Andolino earned her BS in Biology from SUNY New Paltz, and MA in Education from the University of Colorado Boulder. In the classroom for 15 years, Ms. Andolino teaches Life Science and Integrated Life Science at M. Clifford Miller Middle School.
SUSAN ARDUINO
NEWBURGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Susan Arduino earned her BS in Biology, with a double minor in Chemistry and Philosophy at Seton Hill University and her Masters in Teaching from SUNY New Paltz. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Arduino worked as a Laboratory Supervisor in a medical office. In the classroom for 13 years, Mrs. Arduino teaches Regents and Honors Chemistry at Newburgh Free Academy, and looks forward to teaching Advanced Placement Chemistry in the next school year. Mrs. Arduino has participated in Cornell Institute for Chemistry Teachers, Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers, College Board Advanced Placement Chemistry workshop, as well as Materials Science workshops at Princeton University. During the school year, Mrs. Arduino has been involved in the “Adopt a Grad” program, to mentor at-risk teens during their senior year of high school. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Arduino rides horses and competes in Hunter/Jumper events. Her motto is “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Arduino looks forward to joining the Chemistry and Next Generation Science Standards Professional Learning Teams, and participating in the mini-course on Nanoscience.
DEBORAH BEAM
RED HOOK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Deborah Beam earned her BS in Secondary Education biology and chemistry from the SUNY Cortland, Masters in Science Teaching in chemistry and physics from South Dakota State University, and National Board Certification in Adolescent Science. Certified to teach all four sciences at the secondary level, Ms. Beam teaches International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology and Forensic Science at Red Hook High School. In the classroom for 25 years, Ms. Beam has also worked as a Bard College Adjunct Teacher for their Master of Arts in Teaching program, and Biology Mentor Teacher. Keeping students mentally prepared through physical activity was instilled in her by her parents, both Physical Education teachers. Ms. Beam coaches Varsity Field Hockey at her alma mater Pine Plains. Past accolades include being named Biology Teacher of the Year in 2011 by the National Association of Biology Teachers of NYS and Outstanding Science Teacher in 2002 by the Southeast region of the Science Teachers Association of NYS. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Ms. Beam has participated in the Geo-Science of Hydro-fracturing and the Safety of Genetically Engineered Food mini-courses, workshops on 3D Printing and Professional Learning Team facilitation (PLT), and is a member of the Next Generation Science Standards PLT.
P
AUL BIANCHI
CHAPPAQUA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Paul Bianchi earned a BS in physics at Iona College and an MA in Math Education from Teachers College-Columbia. After nine years teaching at Rice High School and All Saints High School in New York City, Mr. Bianchi spent four years teaching International Baccalaureate Physics at The Koc School in Istanbul, Turkey. Since 1998, Mr. Bianchi has been teaching Regents and Advanced Placement Physics (and Research for a few years) at Horace Greeley High School. Inspired by his study of Modeling Physics Instruction at Arizona State, he has since spent several summers teaching workshops in Buffalo and New York City. He recently completed a two-year action research project with his school district on standards-based grading. Outside of school, Mr. Bianchi enjoys his husband’s fantastic cooking, hiking in Harriman State Park, and programming Arduino boards to do cool things. Within the NYS Maser Teacher Program, Mr. Bianchi is looking forward to discussions with peers who are enthusiastic about their craft and open to new ways of doing things. So far, he’s been especially intrigued by workshops on 3d printing and its role in maker education, and plans to spend time this summer in the MakerBot Lab at SUNY New Paltz to organize a school maker space and related course in Technology and Design with several colleagues.
MARIA BRADFIELD
PUTNAM VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Maria Bradfield earned her BA in biology with magna cum laude distinction from Hamilton College. As an undergraduate, she was awarded Phi Beta Kappa and Sigma Xi status, and earned two fellowships for graduate studies in biology. Mrs. Bradfield earned her MS in Biological Sciences from SUNY Binghamton, during which time she was a research assistant on a USDA-funded project. Her research findings were published in two professional science journals, the American Midland Naturalist and the Journal of Chemical Ecology. In the classroom 14 years, Mrs. Bradfield teaches middle school science in the Putnam Valley Central School District. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has been a coach, a curriculum coordinator, and team leader. She is active in professional associations, presenting at the NYS Association for Computer and Technology Education and the Association for Middle Level Education. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Bradfield looks forward to diving into content mini-courses and professional learning team collaboration with other scientists and teachers. Mrs. Bradfield believes Carl Sagan was correct with his proclamation, “Every kid is a natural born scientist,” and she is devoted to K-12 science education believing that scientific literacy is crucial, and science education is to be celebrated.
MARTHA BRUNELLE
MIDDLETOWN CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Martha Brunelle received her BS in Secondary Education from SUNY at Buffalo, and MA in Biology from SUNY New Paltz. In the classroom for 15 years, Ms. Brunelle teaches Principles of Biomedical Sciences, Medical Interventions, and Biomedical Innovations at Middletown City Schools. A strong advocate for inquiry and project-based learning, she involves her students with activities that are technology-filled and choice-based that provide opportunities to broaden their knowledge of several medical conditions. Her professional interests focus on concussions in adolescents as well as other athletic training issues that afflict our students. Her current projects include continued research on concussions as well as development of head gear to protect athletes that minimize rotational and kinetic forces on the brain. In addition, she serves as Co-Chairperson for “Project Lead the Way” Biomedical Sciences Advisory Board for Middletown High School and Co-Chairperson for the student organization “Future Medical Professionals.” Dr. Merryl Tisch honored Ms. Brunelle for her contributions to science education with a visit to her classroom. As a result of the NYS Master Teacher Program, Ms. Brunelle has been able to better reach students’ learning styles using the various activities and strategies she learned through collaboration with other Master Teachers.
COLLEEN BUCCI
HYDE PARK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Colleen Bucci earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Cortland and her Master of Arts in Teaching from Bard College. Mrs. Bucci has been in the classroom for 6 years, and she teaches Living Environment, Ecology, and Forensics at F.D. Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park, NY. A strong advocate for problem-based learning and bringing real world issues into the classroom, she focuses on involving her students in activities and exposing them to issues that motivate them to become more active learners. Her professional interests focus on finding ways to help students become connected to the world around them to open doors for them so that they can see the value that science holds in our ever changing world. Her previous projects involved student trips to the Wolf Conservation Center and local Hudson River wetlands, curriculum development for Winnakee Educational Arboretum, the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, and the Wolf Conservation Center. In addition, she serves on her district’s Strategic Planning Committee, is a member of the NSTA, and is a member of the Wolf Conservation Center’s Education Team. She was recently featured on the cover of Hudson Valley Magazine, February 2014 Issue.
ELISHA BYERS
IRVINGTON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Elisha Byers earned his BA in Mathematics from Drew University, and MSEd from Mercy College. In the classroom for 15 years, Mr. Byers teaches Mathematics and Academic Lab at Irvington Middle School. A strong advocate of student-centered, differentiated instruction driven by data, he involves his students in problem-based learning in which students determine through discussion the validity of their methods. His professional interests focus on the needs of his students and that of his teaching peers by developing the professional learning community in his district. His current projects include the Initiative for Digital Organization (iDO), APPR Professional Development Team, the District Strategic Planning Committee, and the Educational Technology Development Team. In addition, Mr. Byers is a founding officer and serves as Vice President for the Frank J. Romano Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to building community through a variety of programs in Central NY. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Byers enjoyed attending the Project-Based Learning workshop in Albany, and has gained a lot from formal and informal conversations with Master Teacher colleagues.
KELLY CLINCHY
YORKTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Kelly Clinchy earned her BA in Biology from Fordham University, and Master of Arts in Teaching from Manhattanville College. In the classroom for 20 years, Mrs. Clinchy teaches 7th grade life science at Mildred E. Strang Middle School. A strong advocate for fostering a love of science, creative thinking and individual accountability, she involves her students in a variety of activities that require teamwork, responsibility and adherence to the scientific process. She also coordinates and facilitates the U.S. Academic Triathlon in NYS. Mrs. Clinchy is a member of National Science Teachers Association, and enjoys learning about animal behavior when agility training with her dog. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Clinchy has joined others in running two very successful Demo Derby events in April 2015 and October 2015. Her favorite parts about teaching STEM is providing hands-on experience, helping students use science to make sense of their world and to learn more about themselves and other organisms.
SHANNON CONSIDINE
POUGHKEEPSIE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Shannon Considine earned her BS in biology from Marymount College, Master of Science for Teachers in Secondary Education from Pace University, and PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University. Her dissertation researched how experiential learning influences urban student performance in science. In the classroom for a total of 12 years, Dr. Considine spent the first 5 years teaching middle school science. She is currently teaching Living Environment, STEM and Anatomy and Physiology at Poughkeepsie High School. When not in the classroom, Dr. Considine enjoys running, reading, baking, and spending time with her family. Dr. Considine finds inspiration in two different quotes. One is from an unknown source that states, “The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.” The other quote is from Albert Einstein: “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Dr. Considine is looking forward to participating in mini-courses that will help her grow as a teacher and to collaborating with other teachers.
CHRISTOPHER COZZOLINO
HIGHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT
Christopher Cozzolino earned his BA in Chemistry from SUNY Binghamton and his Master of Arts in Teaching from SUNY New Paltz and holds certifications in Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics, all 7-12. In the classroom for ten years, Mr. Cozzolino teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Physics, Regents Physics, and AP Calculus at Highland High School. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Cozzolino serves as the Advisor for Science Olympiad, Mathletes, and Quiz Bowl. Mr. Cozzolino is a member of the American Association of Physics Teachers and has presented his experiences with blended learning and the flipped classroom at the 2015 NYS Association for Computers and Technologies in Education Hudson Valley Regional Conference and the 2015 Ulster BOCES Tech Fest. When not in the classroom, Mr. Cozzolino enjoys running, taking walks with his wife and two daughters, and learning to code. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Cozzolino looks forward to collaborating with the fellow Master Teachers to bring new ideas back to his classroom and to share effective strategies with his colleagues.
MICHAEL CROCCO
WAPPINGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Michael Crocco earned his BS in biology from Marist College and his Master of Science in Teaching at SUNY New Paltz. He holds NYS teaching certifications in Elementary Education, Physical Education, biology and General Science. In the classroom for ten years, he teaches biology at John Jay High School in East Fishkill. Prior to leading his own classroom, Mr. Crocco spent a year volunteering as a teacher’s aide at a local community center in the City of Poughkeepsie. During his elementary years, he was an actor for Nickelodeon and Time magazine commercials. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Crocco served as Junior Class Advisor, assisting the class with fund raising and prom planning, and coach for the Varsity Softball team and the modified and JV basketball team. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Crocco is looking forward to collaborating and sharing best practices with peer Master Teachers in his region and across the state to deepen and broaden his content and pedagogical knowledge.
KELLY CZERMERYS
ULSTER COUNTY BOCES
Kelly Czermerys earned her B.S. in biology from SUNY Binghamton and, prior to teaching, worked as a veterinary assistant and in pharmaceutical sales. After discovering a passion for teaching through work as a substitute, she earned a post-baccalaureate certificate in secondary science education from SUNY Oneonta and an M.Ed. in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Kelly teaches Living Environment and General Science and provides laboratory and curriculum support in science to other special education teachers at Ulster BOCES Center for Alternative Education. She is a member of the APPR team and the Catskill Watershed Corporation’s Public Education Advisory Group and has served as yearbook advisor. Before joining the faculty at Ulster BOCES, Ms. Czermerys worked as an environmental educator at the Mountaintop Arboretum and as an adjunct forensics and human biology instructor at Columbia-Greene Community College. Outside of school, she enjoys hiking with her dog, singing loudly with her family, and playing the violin. As a Master Teacher, Kelly has taken The Biology of Cancer mini-course, participated in Starlab training, explored Data Literacy Using PCB Data from Fish in the Hudson River, and joined the New Ideas in Science PLT. She looks forward to continuing collaboration with colleagues and opportunities to bring the best in science instruction back to empower her students.
MACKENZIE DABO
RED HOOK SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mackenzie Dabo earned her BA in mathematics and English Literature from Susquehanna University, her MSEd from The College of New Jersey Global Program in Johannesburg, South Africa, and certifications in mathematics and English Language Arts. Prior to teaching in Red Hook, Mrs. Dabo taught math at a residential drug treatment facility and in Guinea, West Africa, as a member of the United States Peace Corps. Mrs. Dabo is in her tenth year teaching grades 7 and 8th grade mathematics at Linden Avenue Middle School, where she also serves as Team Leader and is a member of her Faculty Association Executive Committee. Mrs. Dabo is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the local chapter of the American Association of University Women. She is active in her community as a member of the local soccer Board of Directors and an age-group swim coach. Mrs. Dabo wholeheartedly believes the words of Stanley Gudder: “The essence of mathematics is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple” and has long been drawn to mathematics for this reason. Mrs. Dabo is looking forward to collaborating with Master Teachers in her region and around the state, particularly at the summer NYSMTP conference offerings as travel is one of her passions.
KRISTIAN DE LUCCIA
CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Kristian De Luccia earned his BA in Earth Science from Hartwick College, and Master of Arts in Teaching in Earth Science from SUNY at Binghamton. In the classroom for seven years, Mr. De Luccia teaches Regents Earth Science and Current Topics in Science at Clarkstown High School North.
MARIE DECKINGER
MIDDLETOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT
Marie Deckinger earned her BA in mathematics with a focus on Special Education and Elementary Education. While doing her student teaching, she discovered that she enjoyed teaching secondary school and subsequently earned her MSEd from Mount Saint Mary College. Mrs. Deckinger is certified in Secondary Mathematics and Special Education, and has been teaching mathematics at Middletown High School for most of her 15-year career. Over the course of her tenure at Middletown High, Mrs. Deckinger has served as the coordinator for the Extended Day Institute, an after school tutoring program, regularly collaborates with colleagues and serves as a mentor to new teachers. During summer school, she teaches Visual Basic Programming, and she was recently selected to train students in the use of the district issued Chrome Books. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Deckinger is married to her high school sweetheart, has two wonderful children, and is a leader for her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop. Mrs. Deckinger considers herself to be a life-long learner and is looking forward to participating in the Master Teacher Program to continue growing as a teacher.
LAUREN DEREVENSKY
GOSHEN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Laura Derevensky studied Physics as an undergraduate at M.I.T. where she continued on to earn her M.S. and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering. During her time at M.I.T, Dr. Derevensky also rowed crew and represented the United States on the US National Lightweight Rowing Team. Prior to teaching high school, Dr. Derevensky did research on the electromechanical properties of bone at Helen Hayes Hospital in New York and then taught at Pacific Lutheran University in Washington State for four years. She currently teaches Regents and AP Physics at Goshen Central High School. In addition to teaching physics, she has coached the Science Olympiad team and currently teaches Math, French and Science at night school. Laura is a member of Sigma Xi and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. In her spare time, Laura hikes, skis, kayaks and does dog agility – activities that give her ample material to develop examples to use in her physics classes. Since becoming a Master Teacher, she has joined the Climate Change PLT, studied Climate Change Science and its Connections to NYSSLS and Statistics for STEM explored bridge engineering, and attended Astronomy II and Ocean and Estuarine Currents workshops. Dr. Derevensky looks forward to continuing her collaboration with other master teachers and learning more attending Robotics programs.
JULIUS DONISON
NEW ROCHELLE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Julius Donisan earned his BA from Columbia College, where he studied Economics, Mathematics, and Astronomy. He earned his MA in Secondary Mathematics Education from Teachers College. At Teachers College, Mr. Donisan received the Carroll and Milton Petrie New York City Teacher Fellowship. He later went on to complete the Math for America Early Career Fellowship while teaching in New York City. In his ninth year of teaching, Mr. Donisan currently teaches Algebra and Algebra 2 at New Rochelle High School. Mr. Donisan is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. He actively seeks opportunities to engage in problem-solving with his students and colleagues. Outside the classroom, you might find Mr. Donisan hiking in the Catskills on his quest to become a member of the Catskill 3500 club. Mr. Donisan is excited to join the NYS Master Teacher Program, and is looking forward to professional development that further enables him to provide students with rich learning opportunities.
KATRINA DUFFY
WAPPINGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Katrina Duffy earned her BA in mathematics from SUNY Geneseo, MA in mathematics from Western Connecticut State University, and National Board Certification in mathematics. Ms. Duffy has spent her 18 year teaching career with the Wappingers Central School District, where she currently holds the position of Teacher-in-Charge of Mathematics at John Jay High School. She has created, developed, and taught a History of Mathematics course and has advised many clubs and activities including the Student Council, the Junior Class, the Math Team, and the Math Honor Society. Ms. Duffy is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and is part of her district’s Professional Development and STEM Committees. When not working on mathematics you can find Ms. Duffy hitting killer overhead shots on the tennis court or reciting her favorite quote from Daniel J. Boorstin, “Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Duffy is looking forward to opportunities to develop more programs and research opportunities to bring back to her classroom.
JAMIE DYMOND
LIVINGSTON MANOR SCHOOL DISTRICT
Jamie Dymond earned his AS in Computer Science from SUNY Ulster, his BS in Secondary Education Mathematics from SUNY New Paltz, and his MS in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology. Prior to leading his own classroom, he was a computer and network technician for several school districts, and this strong background in computers has enabled him to integrate technology into his lessons. In the classroom for eight years, he teaches Regents Mathematics, Precalculus, Calculus and Statistics for college credit at Livingston Manor Central School. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is a National Honor Society advisor, a member of the school’s Professional Development Team, the Discipline Committee, and mentoring program for new teachers. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Dymond is an avid snow skier and enjoys working on and driving his 180 mph dragster. Both of these passions are brought into the classroom with videos to motivate lessons as well as real world problem solving. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Dymond is looking forward to working with fellow Master Teachers to provide the highest quality of STEM instruction for students throughout the state.
SHARON ELLIS
WALLKILL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Sharon Ellis earned her B.S. in Nutritional Science from Rutgers University and M.S. in Education from Mount Saint Mary College, with certifications in Biology 7-12 and Students with Disabilities 7-12-Biology. During her time at Mount Saint Mary College, she became a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education, and the National Science Teacher Association. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Ellis worked as a flavor chemist in New Jersey, where she was a member of the International Food Technologists and Women in Flavor and Fragrance Commerce. Mrs. Ellis teaches Living Environment at Wallkill Senior High School. She has collaborated with the Department of Environmental Conservation to have her students participate in A Day in the Life of the Hudson River and with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies to help prepare her students for participation in the Hudson Data Jam Competition. Before becoming a Master Teacher, Sharon attended several Demo Derbies sponsored by the NYSMTP. Since joining, she has taken The Biology of Cancer mini-course, attended workshops on Ocean Currents and on Culturally Responsive Behavior Management, and assisted at a Girl’s Rock Stem day. Mrs. Ellis looks forward to continuing to participate in many upcoming courses and programs offered through the NYS Master Teacher Program.
MONICA FERRARO
RYE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Monica Ferraro earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from The University of Texas at Austin Red McCombs School of Business, and her MSEd in Mathematics Education with Honors from The City College of New York. Ms. Ferraro has taught mathematics in NYC public high schools for ten years in traditional school, evening school, and after school programs, and as she enters her 11th year in the classroom, she is thrilled to participate in the Project Lead the Way program and teach Introduction to Engineering Design and Civil Engineering and Architecture at Rye High School. While in NYC, Ms. Ferraro worked as a research participant, teacher, and teacher leader and mentor with the Math and Science Program in New York City and the National Science Foundation to implement and train others in researched based teaching models in the classroom. Additionally, Ms. Ferraro was a Math Department Chair, Girls Running Club Coach, and Math for America Master Teacher. Ms. Ferraro enjoyed mentoring early career teachers at her school and through Math for America, and attending the Park City Math Institute in July 2015 where she did lots of math problems, reflected on her practice, and created professional development on Project Based Assessment Tasks. Ms. Ferraro is excited to collaborate, and share best practices with Mid-Hudson NYS Master Teachers.
KAREN GARNER
KINGSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT
Karen Garner earned her BS in Mathematics and Computer Science from Clarkson College and MS in Computer Science from Union College. After 11 years working as a Computer Software Developer and Product Manager at IBM, Mrs. Garner stayed at home with her three children, and taught private piano lessons. After earning her teaching certification from SUNY New Paltz, she started her 15 years at Kingston High School where she currently teaches Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus Honors and Advance Placement Calculus BC. Mrs. Garner is also a SUNY Ulster and Marist College Collegian Instructor for their High School Bridge program. She is a leader in her church, and enjoys running, golf, hiking, and performing music. In addition to the numerous races Mrs. Garner ran over the past 25 years, she also completed the NYC marathon twice. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Garner is looking forward to working with other Master Teachers on various topics including the Common Core, the flipped classroom model, 3D Printing, and leadership training at summer workshop facilitated by the Mohawk Valley Master Teachers at the Oswegatchie Educational Center.
LIANA GERTZER
CLARKSTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Liana Gertzer earned her BA in Biology from Harvard University, and Master of Arts in Teaching in Biology from Indiana University-Bloomington. In the classroom for 10 years, Ms. Gertzer teaches Regents/Honors Living Environment, Advanced Placement Biology and Science Research Honors at Clarkstown High School North.
ZHANA GLAZENBERG
CROTON-HARMON SCHOOL DISTRICT
Zhanna Glazenburg received her BS in Science Education from New York University and Master of Arts in Teaching from Columbia University, Teachers College. Ms. Glazenburg has been in the classroom for 13 years, and she teaches Physics at Croton Harmon High School. A strong advocate for the constructivist, problem-based approach to classroom instruction, she facilitates classroom activities that empower her students to independently study the world around them in order to collaboratively develop coherent scientific models aimed at explaining and predicting the physical behaviors students observe. Her professional interests focus on incorporating engineering fields into science and math instruction, Modeling Instruction strategies, cognitive science and metacognition research and its implications for classroom instruction, as well as lessons that could be learned from the instructional strategies used by teachers in other parts of the world. Current projects include curriculum design aimed at applying Modeling Instruction strategies to AP Physics, in-service teacher professional development offered by the STEMteachersNYC professional learning community, collaboration with Apha Partners Education (Beijing China) and facilitation of the high school’s Spain-US program. She is an member of NSTA and AAPT. In addition, she serves as K-12 STEM coordinator for the district and is a board member & treasurer of STEMteachersNYC.
BETH GOLDBERG
RED HOOK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Beth Goldberg earned her BA in Mathematics from Wellesley College, MS in Business from the MIT Sloan School of Management, and her Master of Arts in Teaching from Bard College. Ms. Goldberg has been in the classroom for eight years, and she teaches Middle School Mathematics at Linden Avenue Middle School in Red Hook Central School District. Prior to teaching, Ms. Goldberg was a senior executive at JP Morgan Chase where she had global responsibility for a suite of payment services products. Ms. Goldberg is a founding member of the Mid-Hudson Math Teachers’ Circle, which provides enriching workshops throughout the year for middle and high school mathematics teachers. Within the NYSMTP, she has been involved in a number of PLT groups which have enhanced her knowledge of pedagogy as well as enriched her content knowledge. Ms. Goldberg likes teaching STEM because she enjoys anchoring the mathematics in real world experiences. She likes to share with students the many ways the mathematics they are learning is used in a multitude of professions. A favorite quote of hers in, “The one’s who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” – Steve Jobs
SHERYL GOLDBERG
YORKTOWN CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Sheryl Goldberg earned her BA in Biology from SUNY Purchase, and Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Science and Special Education from Manhattanville College. In addition, she completed a certificate program in Gifted and Talented Education at the College of New Rochelle. Mrs. Goldberg has been in the classroom for 33 years, and she teaches 8thgrade physical science at Mildred E. Strang Middle School in the Yorktown Central School District, Yorktown Heights, NY. A strong advocate for creative problem solving and inquiry learning, she involves her students in a variety of activities that require research, problem solving, communication and presentation skills. Her students have participated in Destination Imagination, The Lower Hudson Valley Engineering Expo, IBM research challenge and Academic Triathlon. She is currently planning an eco-adventure trip to Costa Rica for high school students. Mrs. Goldberg’s prior accomplishments include serving as the teacher coordinator of her science department, a founding member of the New York Destination Imagination Board of Directors, and as a member of AGATE. In addition, her article, “The Mural and the Nobel Prize,” was published in Teaching for High Potential, a publication of the National Association for Gifted Children.
JENNIFER GRIFFIN
PINE PLAINS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Jennifer Griffin earned her B.A. in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and her M.S.Ed. in Mathematics, 7-12, from SUNY Binghamton. Mrs. Griffin teaches Algebra II, AP Calculus AB, concurrent Pre-Calculus and concurrent Statistics at Stissing Mountain High School where she serves as advisor to chapters of the National Honor Society and the Mathematics Honor Society. She is the PTA Volunteer Coordinator and Girl Scout Cookie Chair. Mrs. Griffin is an active member of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State, serving on the assembly, and was previously a member of their executive board. She serves as Secretary on the Board of Governors of the New York State Mathematics Honor Society. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys traveling and has visited all fifty states. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Griffin has explored Data Literacy Using PCB Data from Fish in the Hudson River and engineering through STEAM over the Hudson: Bridge Engineering at the Newly Renovated Anchorage Museum at the Bear Mountain Bridge. She has participated in a variety of technology-related workshops that include Coding with Python, Charge Up Your Classes with Free Desmos Technology, and 3D Printing for STEM Teachers. She looks forward to continuing to collaborate with other Master Teachers throughout the state and to taking part in the rich professional development the NYSMTP has to offer.
RANDY GUNNELL
HARRISON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Randy Gunnell earned his B.A. in Physics from SUNY Geneseo and M.A. in Science Education from Western Governors University. Recently, he completed a certificate program in STEM Leadership at Columbia Teachers College and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Gunnell teaches Physics and Science Research at Harrison High School where he also serves as advisor to his district’s Gay-Straight Alliance and Student Government organizations. In the evening, Mr. Gunnell teaches AP Physics at Westchester Hebrew High School. Mr. Gunnell works to support his under-represented students as a board member of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) local chapter. In his personal time, Mr. Gunnell loves playing with his three cats and participating in sports like bowling and skiing (although he can’t help but apply physics concepts to help him improve). Since becoming a Master Teacher, Randy has studied Ocean & Estuarine Circulation, explored bridge engineering through the STEAM Over the Hudson workshop at the Bear Mountain Bridge, and attended A Deeper Dive into NYSSLS conference with Paul Andersen. Mr. Gunnell looks forward to continuing to collaborate with other STEM Master Teachers who are equally as excited as he is about expanding and improving their professional practice.
SETH HOROWITZ
BLIND BROOK-RYE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Seth Horowitz earned his BA in Environmental Studies and Economics from Binghamton University, MSEd N-6 from Hunter College, and an advanced graduate certificate in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University. In the classroom for 18 years, Mr. Horowitz currently teaches Regents Earth Science at Blind Brook Middle School. Mr. Horowitz also serves as the Mentor Coordinator for his district, and is an active member of the Professional Development Committee, Data Inquiry Team, and Middle School Shared Decision-Making Committee. In addition to organizing and leading parent and teacher workshops within his district, Mr. Horowitz has presented at the Rye City Summer Literacy Institute and was a featured guest on the Southern Westchester BOCES/Lower Hudson Regional Information Center (LHRIC) “Live from Model Schools: Flipping the Classroom” Webchat. Most recently, Mr. Horowitz presented a workshop titled “Enhancing Student Learning through the Flipped Classroom” at the LHRIC Technology Leadership Institute. When he isn’t teaching, Mr. Horowitz enjoys writing music, photography, hiking (especially in Glacier National Park and the Shawangunks), and playing with his two daughters. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Horowitz is looking forward to collaborating with others in order to provide increased opportunities for his students to perform authentic scientific investigation.
LISA HOWARD
WARWICK VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Lisa Howard earned her BA in mathematics from Williams College and her MA in Secondary Math Education from Columbia University – Teachers College. In the classroom for 15 years, Mrs. Howard teaches Algebra I and Advanced Placement Calculus at Warwick Valley School District. Prior to teaching in the Orange County, she taught overseas in Morocco and Turkey and at public schools in New York City. In addition to her love of math and teaching, Mrs. Howard is also passionate about languages, and is fluent in French and maintains varying degrees of proficiency in Arabic and Turkish from her stints abroad. Mrs. Howard has been a member of the school’s graduation, year book, hiring and professional development committees, organizes school awards ceremonies, and is currently co-leading “OCAL” (the Orange County Academic League). As a New York State Master Teacher, Mrs. Howard is looking forward to being a part of a collaborative network of professionals with whom she can work with to perfect her craft and find new ways to use her skills in the larger teaching community.
JENNIFER HUPPERT
WAPPINGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Jennifer Huppert earned her BS in Mathematics from Roanoke College, MA in Anthropology from the University of Wyoming, and her National Board Certification in Mathematics. She has been teaching Secondary Math for 14 years. Currently, she teaches Multivariable Calculus, Advanced Placement Statistics, and Pre-Calculus at John Jay High School, in Hopewell Junction, where Mrs. Huppert is the Advisor for the Math Honor Society. She also serves on her school’s Data Team, coaches the Moody’s Mega Math Challenge team, and has written three STEM courses for her district: Biology and the Chi-Square (Scientific Research Methods), the Math and Physics of Roller Coasters, and Real World Applications of Math and Science. Mrs. Huppert is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Outside of school, Mrs. Huppert can be found building her homestead with her husband and enjoying the outdoors. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Huppert highlights her participation in the Math & Technology Professional Learning Team. She regularly brings back ideas to her colleagues and students, such as a few calculator programs that students greatly appreciated. She also attended the 3D Printing workshop and immediately returned to school and printed manipulatives of 3D surfaces we use in Multi-Variable Calculus.
LESIA KASZCZAK
YONKERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Lesia Kaszczak earned her BS in biology from the College of Mount St. Vincent, MSEd in biology from Iona College and EdD in Instructional Leadership from St. John’s University where her doctoral dissertation focused on professional development in STEM. Dr. Kaszczak is NYS certified in biology grades 7-12 and has taught integrated science to 7th and 8th graders for eight years. For the past 15 years, she has taught Living Environment and International Baccalaureate Biology at Yonkers High School where she also serves as chairperson of the science department and co-advisor for the school’s ACE mentorship program, which is part of a nationwide network of mentors helping to prepare high school students for careers in architecture, construction and engineering. Dr. Kaszczak has collaborated with teachers in Singapore and Malaysia through the Columbia University Summer Research Program for Science Teachers and has conducted laboratory research on Thalassemia at Mahidol University in Thailand. Dr. Kaszczak loves to travel and hopes someday to teach overseas for an extended period. As a Master Teacher, Dr. Kaszczak is looking forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers on topics including biotechnology and genetics. As a science teacher she often recalls the words of the great poet Robert Frost who said, “I am not a teacher, but an awakener.”
CYNTHIA KLEIN
CORNWALL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Cynthia Klein, a graduate from Shoreham-Wading River High School on Long Island, earned her B.A. at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY, in Elementary/Secondary Education and Special Education, along with a concentration in Mathematics. She later earned her M.S.Ed. from Saint Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, NY, in Literacy Education. In 2009, Ms. Klein earned National Board Certification in Early Adolescence Mathematics. She has been a math teacher at Cornwall Central High School since September 2001 and currently teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry. Ms. Klein is a member of Cornwall Central School District’s Mentoring Committee and Professional Development Committee and an advisor to the sophomore class. Ms. Klein is the treasurer and building representative for the Cornwall Central Teachers Assocation. When not teaching, Cynthia enjoys running half marathons, knitting, and crocheting. Ms. Klein is extremely honored to join the New York State Master Teacher program looks forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers to continue to improve STEM education.
KRISTIN KOEGEL
RHINEBECK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Kristin Koegel earned her BS in Secondary Education with a concentration in Biology from Manhattan College and MS in Geoscience from Mississippi State University. She is currently teaching 8th grade Physical Science at Bulkeley Middle School in Rhinebeck, NY. Kristin is a strong believer in hands-on learning and problem solving. She infuses her course with open ended learning experiences to ensure her students gain a wide variety of critical thinking skills to use as they move beyond middle school. In addition, Kristin coaches volleyball and softball. Knowing her students outside of the classroom helps her to create a learning environment that students can thrive in. She is also a member of the National Science Teachers Association and the Science Teacher Association of New York State.
DEBORAH KRAVCHUK
HYDE PARK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Deborah Kravchuk earned her BS in Physical Oceanography and Dynamic Meteorology from SUNY Maritime College, MA in Teacher Leadership and Curriculum from Ashford University, and is currently completing her doctorate in Teaching and Curriculum from Northcentral University. In the classroom for 25 years, she teaches Earth Science and Physics in the Hyde Park School District, Reading for Elementary Students with the Summer Bridge Program, and is a STEM Instructor with Camp Invention. Mrs. Kravchuk is also a certified member of the Orton-Gillingham Academy and teaches Orton-Gillingham Reading and Writing Instruction. Her current projects include collaborating with Bard College to provide STEM-based problem-solving learning activities for Middle School students by incorporating life science and algebra curriculums. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Kravchuk has presented at the Annual Professional Development Conference, represented the Mid-Hudson region in the TeachNY Advisory Council on the Induction, Retention and Leadership Task Force. As a result of the NYS Master Teacher Program, she has taught her students to write more and be reflective thinkers and has shared about writing and other topics she has explored with colleagues at school.
DOROTHY LESHAU-FINDLAY
HYDE PARK CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dorothy Lehsau-Findlay received her BS in Marine Science/Biology from Southampton College of Long Island University and MSEd from SUNY New Paltz. Mrs. Lehsau-Findlay has been in the classroom for 34 years, and she teaches physics at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park. A strong advocate for individual student responsibility in the classroom, she encourages her students to think outside the box and provides them with an assortment of opportunities to apply their knowledge in new and unique ways. She has mentored her students long after they graduate from high school, and several have entered the teaching profession as a result. Within the MTP, she has worked on a PLT mapping math skills needed for success in science courses. Ms. Lehsau-Findlay is passionate about teaching science in particular because understanding the world around us is so important and so darn cool. The fact that her students couldn’t walk to class or hold a pencil without friction makes what she teaches relevant on a daily basis. In 2013 she was one of two recipients honored with the Clarkson University Award for Inspirational High School Educators. A favorite quote of hers is “millions saw the apple fall, but Newton asked why.” – Bernard Baruch
LEAH LEIBACHER
WAPPINGERS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Leah L. Leibacher earned her BA in English from Allegheny College, Professional Certification in Secondary Education from the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. Mrs. Leibacher also holds a National Board Certification in Adolescent/Young Adult: Earth Science and dual New York State certification in Earth Science and English. In the classroom for ten years, Mrs. Leibacher teaches middle school science and hosts student teachers at Wappingers Junior High School. A strong advocate for high-quality educational opportunities in STEM for all students, Mrs. Leibacher involves her students in hands-on learning in the physical sciences. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she is part of her school’s (Positive Behavior Intervention and Support) Committee and is focusing on technology integrated instruction. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Leibacher is a member of the Inquiry Learning Professional Learning Team. Mrs. Leibacher’s favorite part about teaching STEM is supporting all students –those who think they aren’t smart enough to succeed and providing extra support for those going through a difficult time in their lives.
CHRISTOPHER LEWICK
BYRAM HILLS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Christopher Lewick, originally from the Hudson Valley, earned his BA in economics at SUNY Buffalo and his MS in Mathematics Education from Canisius College. In the classroom for 17 years, Mr. Lewick teaches all levels of Computer Science and mathematics at Byram Hills High School in Armonk. Prior to teaching in the Mid-Hudson region, he taught in Nevada and Venezuela. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Lewick advised the Robotics Club, and is currently the advisor for the Tech Club where he both motivates and is motivated by young aspiring computer geniuses. Mr. Lewick models being a life-long learner and is inspired by travels with his family each summer. For example, last summer they traveled to London, Paris and Ireland and studied Spanish in Spain as a family for two weeks. Given his love of learning, Mr. Lewick is especially excited about the NYS Master Teacher Program. He is looking forward to sharing and learning best practices with his peers and to bringing ideas back to his math department at Byram Hills High School, in order to inspire the teachers and students with whom he works.
SOYOUNG LIM
CROTON-HARMON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Soyoung Lim earned her B.S. in Computer Science from Chonbuk National University in Korea and her M.A. in Computer Science from Queens College. She holds National Board Certification in Adolescence and Young Adulthood Mathematics and certification as a JAVA programmer from Sun Microsystems Incorporated. Before coming to the United States, Soyoung taught computer science at a technical high school in Korea. Upon finishing graduate school in the U.S., Ms. Lim realized how much she missed teaching and enrolled in Nyack College where she completed a teacher education program. While studying secondary education, she taught math courses at Nyack College Manhattan Campus for six semesters. Ms. Lim teaches AP Calculus AB/BC, Computer Science I & II and AP Computer Science A at Croton-Harmon High School where she serves as advisor to the Math Team and the Programming Club. Ms. Lim loves playing with her dog and playing and listening to piano music. As a Master Teacher, Soyoung has participated in GEOGEBRA I and II, Coding with Python, and History of Mathematics workshops and the Mathematical Ideas in Curve Stitching and String Art mini-course. Ms. Lim looks forward to continuing her collaboration with other Master Teachers to deepen her content knowledge and to enhance her contributions to STEM education in the Croton learning community.
MARGARET LOH
WAPPINGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Margaret Loh was born and raised in Nevada. She earned her AB in chemistry from Bryn Mawr College and MS in chemistry from UC Berkeley. She worked in the semiconductor industry doing surface compositional analysis, depth profiling, and imaging for quality control and failure analysis of electronic films. Mrs. Loh spent several years at home after her children were born and her interest in teaching was sparked after watch “Bill Nye, the Science Guy” with them. She completed the course work and student teaching for the NYS certification through SUNY New Paltz and has been teaching for 14 years. She has taught all four levels of chemistry, from practical through Advanced Placement at John Jay Senior High School. She is a big fan of the American Chemical Society’s Chemistry Olympiad program and encourages both first and second year chemistry students to participate at the local level, and when they are invited, to participate at the national level exam. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, she is excited about flipping her classroom next year.
MICHAEL MAHONEY
MAHOPAC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Michael Mahoney earned both his BS and MS in Science Education from SUNY New Paltz, and has worked at Mahopac High School for 20 years. Mr. Mahoney has taught Advanced Placement (AP) Biology, AP Environmental and Living Environment, and Syracuse University Project Advance Forensics. Mr. Mahoney is actively engaged in his district with the Teachers Teaching Teachers program that trains educators in new content, skills and pedagogy. He also created a program at his school district to help new teachers transition into their profession. Admittedly, Mr. Mahoney says that he learns as much from them as they learn from him. Mr. Mahoney is excited about his new project that allows students to work side by side with STEM researchers in Costa Rica to preserve the rainforest. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Mahoney is looking forward to joining his peers in various professional learning teams. His focus is learning and teaching others about reaching the new generation of students, the digital natives. His approach to learning can be summed up by Henry Ford’s statement, “The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.”
NICHOLAS MALGIERI
WALLKILL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Nicholas Malgieri earned his B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Marist College and his M.A.T. in Biology from Bard College. Mr. Malgieri teaches Living Environment and Forensic Science at Wallkill Senior High School where he is a strong advocate for student-centered instruction and project-based learning. His goal is to assist students in creating deeper connections to the content and to develop a true passion for science by encouraging their curiosity and actively involving them in the learning process. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Nicholas advises the Scholastic Match-up Club and Sophomore Class. He is a union building representative and serves as a member of his district’s comprehensive district education plan committee, school improvement team, professional development committee, and the technology pilot program. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Malgieri has participated in the New Ideas in Science PLT, attended several workshops including STARLAB training, Climate Change and Weaving the Threads of the NYSP12SLS, assisted at the Girls Rock STEM event at SUNY New Paltz, and taken Biology of Cancer and Astronomy II mini-courses. Nicholas looks forward to continuing to collaborate with his peers to deepen and broaden his content and pedagogical knowledge so that he can provide enhanced learning opportunities for his students.
CHRISTINE MATHERS
NORTHEAST SCHOOL DISTRICT
Christine Mathers earned her BS in psychology, special education, and Spanish at Marist College, and MS in learning disabilities at The College of Saint Rose. Later studies at Dutchess Community College led to NYS secondary math certification. Mrs. Mathers began her teaching career at Maplebrook School, a boarding school for students with learning differences. After four rewarding years at Maplebrook, Mrs. Mathers began teaching at the Webutuck School District, where she has been for 14 years. At Webutuck, she has taught Math 7, Math 7 accelerated, Math 8, Algebra 1, and Math Models for 9th graders. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Mathers is a SafeSitter babysitting trainer, member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Association of Math Teachers of NYS, and has assisted in the development of several NY State Teachers’ Content Exams for teacher certification. At Webutuck, Mrs. Mathers pioneered the “Small Change for a Big Change” projects in her ninth grade classes, to engage her students in the inspiring idea expressed by Scott Adams, author of Dilbert, “Remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Mathers is looking forward to collaborating with colleagues and learning new methods and technology to help her students love math.
JUSTINE MCCLELLAN
BRONXVILLE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Justine McClellan earned her BA at Sarah Lawrence College in biology, Masters in Teaching at Notre Dame of Maryland University in Baltimore, Maryland, and holds professional certification in biology, and supplemental certification in Earth Science. In the classroom for eight years, she teaches both subjects, and is advisor of the Astronomy Club at Bronxville High School. Mrs. McClellan recently completed three summers in the Columbia University Summer Research Program for Science Teachers. As part of this program, she spent two summers in a cancer genetics research lab doing microscopy and immunohistology to study the effect of a DNA-targeted therapy on the immune cells and tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. Her third summer, she went to James Cook University in Queensland, Australia, where she honed her skills in microscopy and scanning electron microscope (SEM) in studying algae of the Great Barrier Reef. She obtained SCUBA certification which served her in collecting samples. Her research experiences have led her to establish an independent study course in cancer research Bronxville High and she has recently obtained a grant to pioneer a research program on the ecology and water quality of the Bronx River. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. McClellan is looking forward to being a member of a professional network of impassioned teachers who seek to grow deeply in their practices and to develop greater depth of knowledge in the science content areas.
MARY JANE MCFARLAND
WAPPINGERS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mary Jane McFarland earned her BS in biology from The University of Findlay and Master of Science in Teaching Literacy grades 5-12 from Mercy College. She has been teaching various levels of biology for 15 years, including: Advanced Placement (AP) Biology, Regents, and Project Special Education Alternative Living Environment. Mrs. McFarland has participated in various AP Biology training sessions, been a co-coach for the Science Olympiad team, and has been a Jr. Building Union Representative. In 2008, Mrs. McFarland won the Science Teachers Association of NYS Edison/Tesla Award in Biology. Besides teaching high school biology, Mrs. McFarland has also been teaching at Dutchess Community College for the past seven years. There she teaches “Introduction to Physiology” to nursing students. Mrs. McFarland, her husband and two young boys enjoy time together in the outdoors. She has been riding horses for 37 years and has been a competitor, judge, instructor, clinician and a 4-H horse leader. She enjoys participating in Ranch Horse competitions in the Northeast. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. McFarland looks forward to creating and participating in Professional Learning Teams and collaborating with other teachers.
SHANNON MISIASZEK
PEARL RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT
Shannon Misiaszek earned her BS in biology with a minor in chemistry from Fordham University, and MS in biology and Chemistry Education from Manhattanville College. While at Fordham she was a two-year co-captain of the Division I women’s soccer team, competing in the Atlantic Ten conference, and she was an assistant coach for the Division III women’s soccer team at Manhattanville College. In the classroom for nine years, Ms. Misiaszek teaches various levels of chemistry at Pearl River High School in Rockland County. During her tenure at Pearl River, she served as Co-Advisor to the Science Research Program and the Science Olympiad. For the last eight years, Ms. Misiaszek has been the coach of the junior varsity girls’ soccer team and for the last five years she coached the modified girls’ basketball team. Ms. Misiaszek finds inspiration in Albert Einstein’s quote: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is to not stop questioning.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Misiaszek is looking forward to participating in the multitude of mini-courses offered as well as working alongside other Master Teachers on various professional learning teams.
MARGARET MONTALBANO
KINGSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT
Margaret Montalbano earned her BA in mathematics from American International College, where she was a member of the Lady Yellow Jackets D2 softball team, and her MS in Education from SUNY New Paltz. Ms. Montalbano has 23 years of classroom teaching experience; serving her first seven years at Arlington High School, and her past 17 years at her current school, Kingston High School. She is a dedicated mathematics teacher who holds her students to high standards believing that math is a key curriculum subject that helps young people learn to think, question, communicate, solve and produce solutions to mathematical problems and beyond. Ms. Montalbano is a life-long Mid-Hudson Valley resident and outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, kayaking and softball. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Ms. Montalbano is looking forward to the numerous professional development offerings such as the 3D printing mini-course as well opportunities for networking with regional math professionals.
NATALIE MORALES
NEWBURGH ENLARGED CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Natalie Morales earned her BS in Biology/Secondary Education and MSEd in Literacy from SUNY New Paltz, her professional degree in Educational Administration from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, and her EdD in Instructional Leadership from Western Connecticut State University. In the classroom for 15 years, Dr. Morales teaches Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Environmental Science at Newburgh Free Academy. In addition, she developed new curricula for a course integrating science and technology. Outside the classroom, Dr. Morales is a new teacher mentor, and has served as a “turnkey trainer” and facilitator for the implementation of professional learning communities and classroom management skills within her school. Outside of school, she is a member of Phi Delta Kappa and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. A lifelong learner, she has been traveling and learning about STEM and education in other countries. As a NYS Master Teacher, Dr. Morales has utilized knowledge from workshops on Next Generation Science Standards and Google Docs in both her classroom and her personal life.
