submitted by Mary Prusak, Communications Specialist, New Lebanon CSD
New Lebanon High School math teacher Dolores Storey has been selected for the New York State Master Teacher Program. Storey, a Ravena resident, joins the 104 Master Teachers announced in October 2013, bringing the total number of Master Teachers in New York to 319, representative of every region in the State. The teachers went through an extensive application and interview process, took a content area test, submitted written essays and gave presentations.
[private]“The Master Teacher Program creates a community of teacher experts dedicated to providing a first rate learning experience for students across New York and contributes to our efforts to attract and retain the best and the brightest in our STEM classrooms,” said Governor Cuomo. “Investing in our teachers is investing in our students, and I am pleased to welcome and congratulate 215 additional outstanding teachers to this program, who have already proven to be some of the highest performing professionals in their field.”
SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher said, “The Master Teacher Program allows for our brightest STEM educators to share their experience and knowledge with their colleagues, furthering student success and helping to improve college readiness across the state.”
According to the program website, master teachers will engage in peer mentoring and intensive content oriented professional development opportunities throughout the academic year; work closely with pre-service and early career teachers to foster a supportive environment for the next generation of STEM teachers and receive a $15,000 stipend per year over four years for participation in the program.
The program promotes professional growth, mentorship and leadership, with Master Teachers attending required regular cohort meetings and participating in and leading several professional development sessions each year. Storey will work with 22 other teachers in the Capital Region selected for the program. On August 15 all Master Teachers are invited to attend the first annual Master Teacher Program professional development conference, “New York State Master Teachers: Inspiring the Next Generation of STEM Leaders.” This event will allow for these outstanding educators to design, lead and participate in enriching professional development workshops.
Ms. Storey has been teaching math at New Lebanon Jr./Sr. High School for 17 years.[/private]