Kirsten Abbott earned her BS in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Wells College, and MS in Multidisciplinary Studies from Buffalo State College. Mrs. Abbott worked for the New York City Board of Education from 2005 - 2008 and has taught in inner city schools, a rural school, a private all girls preparatory high school, and in urban China. She currently teaches Regents Chemistry, Chem Science, and Advanced Placement Environmental Science in Geneva City School District. She is the advisor of Sci Girls, a club for middle school girls that explores STEM-related topics. She believes students who are engaged with STEM in school make informed and productive members of society and she feels gratified to engage those learners. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Abbott has coached women's tennis and women's high school lacrosse. She is also an active presenting member of Science Teachers' Association of New York State (STANYS). Mrs. Abbott is looking forward to making connections with other people and to STEM content through the Master Teacher Program knowing it will support both personal growth and student learning. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, hiking the Adirondack peaks, and swimming with her family in the beautiful Finger Lakes.
Kimberly Agar earned her BS in Biology in Secondary Education from SUNY Plattsburgh, and her MS in Special Education from Nazareth College. Starting her teaching career in Baltimore, Maryland and then moving to Honeoye Falls – Lima High School, she has been in the classroom for 20 years. Currently, Mrs. Agar teaches Regents Biology, Environmental Studies and a self-contained Regents Biology course designed to help reluctant learners soar! A primary classroom goal is to make all learners feel comfortable and confident to take risks and stretch themselves to their utmost potential. In school, Mrs. Agar serves on various committees, as class advisor, a new teacher mentor, and PTA Liaison. Outside of school, Mrs. Agar volunteers with Girl and Boy Scouts in a variety of capacities. During her free time, she can most often be found kayaking or exploring NYS amazing parks with her family. It is this love of outdoors that ultimately led Mrs. Agar to a career in Biology and to helping students find the miracles in our living world. As a new NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to broadening her knowledge base and helping new and pre-service teachers prepare for the greatest career on earth.
Maureen Aguglia earned her BA in mathematics from Nazareth College, and MS in Elementary Education Advanced Teaching from SUNY Geneseo. Prior to teaching, Mrs Aguglia worked in the restaurant industry managing multimillion dollar facilities. In the classroom 17 years and with experience teaching third grade through high school, she teaches 7th and 8th grade Math at Martha Brown Middle School in Fairport. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Aguglia is her local union building representative, a long tenured member of the Scholarship Committee, co-chairperson of an annual fundraiser for the local Golisano Children's Hospital, and retired volleyball coach. Mrs. Aguglia is an active member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS and the Association of Mathematics Teachers of the Rochester Area, and has presented at annual conferences as well as in her district, notably a Common Core Math night for parents. Her favorite mathematician is Gauss and she agrees with his statement: "The enchanting charms of this sublime science reveal only to those who have the courage to go deeply into it." As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Aguglia is looking forward to meeting and working with her colleagues who share her love and enthusiasm for mathematics.
Joseph Ahl earned his BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo, MS in Math Education from SUNY Brockport, and is He is currently in the process to achieve National Board Certification. Mr. Ahl has been at Fairport High School for the past nine years, and is currently teaching Pre-Calculus, Pre-Calculus Honors and Algebra 2 Trigonometry. Outside the classroom, Mr. Ahl enjoys chaperoning school events, including the senior trip to Boston, has served as a Class Advisor, and is currently an Advisor to Fairport High School Student Council. In addition to advising, Mr. Ahl has taken his teaching skills to the gym this year as a coach for Fairport Boys Modified Volleyball. Married to another math teacher on Pi Day (March 14), math is truly his passion. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Ahl is looking forward to taking mini-courses and collaborating with colleagues to enhance his knowledge of STEM content, pedagogy, and of students' families and communities.
Brad Allen earned his BS in Optics, BA in Mathematics, and MS in Teaching and Curriculum from the University of Rochester, and Master of Philosophy in Physics from the University of Cambridge (U.K.) as a Churchill Scholar. He is currently teaching Advanced Placement (AP) Physics in his eleventh year at Brighton High School, and eighteenth year of teaching overall. Mr. Allen is the Head Coach of the Brighton Science Olympiad Team and the advisor for the Science Research Club. He is involved in the AP program at the national level, serving as a Reader, Table Leader, and Item Writer for the AP Physics exams. His publications include the cover article for the February 2015 issue of "The Physics Teacher," and contributions to one of the leading AP Physics review books. He was awarded the 2010 William Ryan Inspirational Teacher Award by the University of Rochester. Mr. Allen enjoys bringing physics to students of all levels through active learning and strongly supports the notion that all students can learn (and love) physics. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to working with both current experts in STEM education and pre-service teachers.
Matthew Amoroso earned his BS in Mathematics Education from St. Bonaventure University. Shortly after beginning his career at Ada M. Cosgrove Middle School in Spencerport, NY, he earned his MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY Brockport. Now in his 25th year in education, Matthew continues to teach Mathematics to 7th and 8th grade students. He has served as the Middle School Math Department Teacher Leader since 2008 and has worked as an Adjunct Professor at both Monroe Community College and Genesee Community College since 2006. In 2007, Matthew was awarded Teacher of the Semester honors at Genesee Community College, and later that year, he received the National Institute for Staff and Organized Development (NISOD) award for Teaching Excellence. However, being accepted into the New York State Master Teacher program is the honor that he is most proud of. Matthew was encouraged and inspired by his parents to become an educator. His passion for solving new and exciting problems keeps him enthusiastic and the classroom atmosphere energized. He is excited to be working with other Master Teachers to explore relevant situations that engage all students in Mathematics. In his spare time, Matthew writes songs and produces music for himself and others at his home recording studio in Brockport, NY, where he lives with his wife and three daughters.
Peter Apps earned his BS in Chemistry, certification in Physics and MSEd in Adolescent Chemistry Education from SUNY Brockport, and is pursuing certification as a Google Trainer. In the classroom for ten years, Mr. Apps currently teaches Advanced Placement and Regents Physics, and 8th Grade General Science at York Central School. He also is an adjunct professor at Genesee Community College's Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) program, teaching Introduction to Forensics. In addition to his classroom teaching, Mr. Apps coordinates the York School District's "1:1 Chromebook Program," and serves as an in-house technology trainer. Outside of school, Mr. Apps enjoys being outdoors hiking, canoeing and engaging in amateur astronomy activities with his wife and three children. As a new NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Apps looks forward to collaborating with peer Master Teachers to develop new and innovative ways to teach in a 1:1 environment, as well as serving as a resource to novice teachers.
Maeghan Archambault earned her BS in Environmental Science and MS in Education from the University of Rochester. In the classroom for five years, she teaches 7th and 8th grade science, and Regents Earth Science at Barker Road Middle School. When she is not in the school, Ms. Archambault loves to travel and explore new places. She has been to 15 countries and four continents, hoping to hit all seven continents someday. Whether home or abroad, she enjoys taking pictures of geologic phenomenon to share with her students. She collects rock, mineral, and fossil samples and carts them back to her classroom (which has made for awkward conversations at customs). Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Ms. Archambault is looking forward to joining the Alternative Education Professional Learning Team. With all the different courses she teaches, she is also looking forward to the opportunity to enrich her content knowledge across a broad range of subject areas. She is excited to be part of the Master Teacher Program, a statewide network of teachers that love science and are committed to lifelong learning.
John Armstrong earned his AS in Mechanical Engineering from Adirondack Community College, and BS in Education from SUNY College at Oswego. In the classroom for 18 years, Mr. Armstrong teaches Introduction to Technology at Spry Middle School.
Sarah Atseff earned her BS in Biology Adolescent Education and MSEd in Students with Disabilities from Nazareth College. She has been a Special Education Science teacher at Rush-Henrietta Alternative High School for ten years, and co-teaches a variety of courses including Earth Science and Biology Regents. Ms. Atseff has served on her Building Technology Team, School Reconfiguration Team, and works closely with administrators and service professionals to ensure students with special education needs are supported. Outside of school, she participates in FrogWatch USA and eBird, two online programs to track frog and bird populations in local regions, and explores ways to incorporate geospatial technology into the classroom. She is a member of the Parent Advisory Group at her son's school, and spends a lot of time watching her children play hockey and managing her older son's team. In her spare time, her family enjoys their saltwater reef aquarium, and spending summers at their cottage in Chaumont Bay. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, she is a member of the Biology and Make-and-Take Professional Learning Teams, and has participated in workshops focusing on sports-related concussions, NASA design challenges used to incorporate engineering into all curricula, and innovations in next-generation energy and mobility systems.
Sonja Bailey earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MA in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport. Mrs. Bailey spent her first nine years teaching at Fayetteville-Manlius High School and Southern Cayuga Central School District. She taught Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Pre-Calculus. She currently teaches Intermediate Algebra 2, Algebra 2, and Algebra 2/College Algebra at Webster Schroeder High School. Mrs. Bailey is the varsity unified basketball coach. In this program, athletes with and without intellectual disabilities participate together. Participation is rooted in the principle of meaningful involvement which ensures that every player is given an opportunity to contribute to the success of his or her team through their unique skills. Mrs. Bailey recently received a grant to re-design her learning space, and is eager to learn how to better incorporate technology into her new classroom. She is excited to work and learn with other STEM experts to make learning math relevant to all students. Mrs. Bailey's family is active in the community through Girl Scouts, Webster softball, Young Life, gymnastics, basketball, ice skating, and baseball. Mrs. Bailey is an avid runner and loves to race in Ragnars, half-marathons, 10K's, and any new race to challenge herself.
Christine Bailey-Clar earned her BA in Science from Nazareth College and MS in Instructional Technology from George Mason University. During undergrad, Mrs. Bailey-Clar studied abroad in United Kingdom on an International Student Teaching Scholarship. Her experience working in a diverse community set the groundwork for the challenging curriculum she would design in teaching STEM disciplines. Mrs. Bailey-Clar is a Greece Athena Middle School STEM educator who teaches pre-engineering coursework through the Project Lead the Way (Gateway to Technology) Program. As a participant and contributor of I-TEST (Innovative Technology Experiences for Students Teachers), she has recently received a grant from the National Science Foundation for her Computer Science initiatives in developing a Coding Academy for diverse learners. She currently serves on her District's STEAM Team, Digital Design and Innovation Team, and her School Improvement Team and assisted in initiating the first National Junior Honor Society Chapter at her school. She has piloted programs at Rochester Institute of Technology and University of Rochester's Scholars program to engage young women and diverse learners to pursue engineering and STEM careers. Mrs. Bailey-Clar recently received National Recognition for her Sustainable Architecture curriculum design and presented student designs in Colorado. In her free time, she enjoys organic gardening, time at the lake, and hiking. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Bailey-Clar is looking forward to inspiring educators and preservice teachers to seek the potential of every individual by understanding the unique capabilities of everyone in the community through the study of Neuroscience, the career demands and opportunities of STEM innovation, sustainability, and the Computer Sciences.
Daniel Baker earned his BS in Chemistry & Engineering Physics from Miami University and MS in Adolescence Education (Chemistry & Physics) from the University of Rochester. Mr. Baker began teaching in 2016 at Penfield High School, where he currently teaches AP Chemistry and Physics w/ Optics. He serves as the advisor to the Class of 2024 and the Chemistry Club and assists with the Strategy Games Club. Mr. Baker serves on the district's K-12 Science Steering Committee, the Restorative Practices Team and the high school's Shared Decision-Making Team. Mr. Baker also teaches Physics and Chemistry at Nazareth College. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Baker enjoys most spending time with his family, playing games and travelling. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to collaborating with a diverse community of learners to continue to forward the mission of spreading a love and passion of science among New York State's youth.
Natalie Barnum earned her BA in Secondary Science Education, with a 5th-8th grade extension in the concentration of Biology from Niagara University. She began her teaching career in the Rochester City School District in 2005 after completing her student teaching with the district. Ms. Barnum furthered her education at Walden University, where she earned her MS in Elementary Science Education. She is a Mentor and Lead Science teacher in the Rochester City School District. She currently teaches Living Environment and Honors Living Environment at James Monroe High School. Ms. Barnum is a HEART Award recipient and was leader of her school's Green Team for several years. She enjoys seeing her students outside the classroom at sporting events and at school dances. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family. Her four children and international exchange students keep her life interesting. Ms. Barnum has found that her passion for teaching biology stems from her interest in learning as well as making new discoveries. She is very excited about all of the new learning opportunities that the NYS Master Teacher Program will provide.
Sharon Beasley earned her BS from Nazareth College of Rochester, studying Biology, Environmental Science, and Special Education, and her MAT from SUNY Stony Brook. She volunteered with Cornell Cooperative Extension to teach more science beyond the classroom. She continues to pursue as much training as she can beyond her classroom with online and in-person EdCamps, and ISTE conferences. She teaches special education science courses: Earth Science, Living Environment, and Environmental Science at the Franklin Upper School. Ms. Beasley is a member of the Science Leadership Team, Roc Restorative Team, Response To Intervention (RTI) Team, and the Green Team. She has taught in urban education for more than 20 years and truly loves connecting curiosities with scientific discoveries. She loves to bring her students into the community to learn about storm drains and water pollution, and her classroom is always full of pets and plants and ways for students to explore their own learning. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Beasley is an active member of the community participating in invasive species pulls, banding raptors, and increasing awareness of the harmful effects of pesticides and fertilizers on Lake Ontario health. She enjoys kayaking, hiking, and camping with her family, and fosters dogs.
Eric Benderski earned his Bachelors of Science in Biochemistry from SUNY ESF, and a Masters of Science in Secondary Chemistry Education from the State University of Oswego. Prior to teaching, Mr. Benderski worked in industry as an environmental technician/chemist for multiple companies focusing on water purification and water remediation systems. In the classroom since 2016 Mr. Benderski has primarily taught chemistry and physics, but has also taught a variety of STEM and technology courses during his tenure with Lyons Central School District. He is a 3-season coach for his school district, coaching football in the fall and track and field in the winter and spring seasons. Mr. Benderski is very fortunate for the relationships he has built with his students and student athletes over the years. As a New York State Master Teacher, he hopes to continue his education in science, and science pedagogy, but also hopes to build relationships and share experiences with peers to learn how to provide the best STEM education for his community.
Becky Berardino earned a BS in Finance from Boston College, and her Masters in Teaching from Sacred Heart University. Mrs. Berardino worked in commercial debt restructuring on Wall Street before surrendering to a lifelong desire to become a teacher. In the classroom for 14 years, she teaches Honors Algebra and Geometry, and Academic Intervention Services (AIS), and Honors Math 6-8 at Barker Road Middle School (BRMS). Mrs. Berardino enjoys finding creative and practical applications of mathematics to engage students and to help them pursue the answer to "why?" She is a member of Pittsford's Mathematics Steering Committee and the BRMS Technology Committee. She has led professional development workshops on Flipped Learning, and is always looking for innovative ways to deliver instruction. Mrs. Berardino is the advisor for BRMS Academic Challenge Bowl. She enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with her family. During her first semester with the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Berardino has participated in workshops focusing on the following topics: alternative energy systems, sports-related concussions, and teaching your peers. She also participated in the Biology of Cancer mini-course and "STEM in Letchworth State Park" visit with the on-site nature center. She is especially excited to broaden her knowledge of all STEM fields and collaborate with other teachers.
Robert Berg graduated from SUNY Potsdam with a BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education and a MS in Educational Administration from SUNY Brockport. He has taught Math at Merton Williams Middle School (an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program School) for 25 years, where he currently teaches Math 8 and algebra. In 2019, Mr. Berg was honored as Teacher of the Year for the Hilton School District. He is the Math Department Liaison and an active member of the district's Leadership Counsel and Union Negotiations Team. He has mentored dozens of teachers and student teachers and serves as a facilitator for the video coaching program. Mr. Berg has enjoyed acting as a class trip chaperone to Washington DC and Quebec on multiple occasions and coaching modified boys' basketball and cross country. Mr. Berg is passionate about reaching all learners by developing positive and encouraging relationships. He uses inquiry-based problem-solving tasks to help students become more confident in their own mathematical knowledge. In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his family, playing golf, and attending sporting events. Mr. Berg is excited to collaborate with fellow NYS Master Teachers to further develop his content and pedagogical knowledge.
Jonathan Betrus graduated from SUNY Potsdam with a BA in Biology and a Master of Science in Teaching in Science Education. Following a long line of teachers in his family, he began teaching 18 years ago, and has spent his entire career teaching Secondary Biology at Naples High School. He teaches Accelerated Living Environment, Accelerated Science 7, General Biology I (BIO 121), Introduction to Fish and Wildlife (CON 102), Environmental Science (CON 103), and Principles of Outdoor Education. Outside the classroom, Mr. Betrus is the Academic All-Stars Advisor, Sophomore Class Advisor, as well as the Naples Outdoor Adventure Club advisor. He coaches JV Boys Soccer, Varsity Boys Tennis, and the Trap Shooting Team for the school. He also coaches soccer, baseball, and basketball at the youth level in the community. Mr. Betrus is a certified Sportsman Education Instructor and an avid outdoorsman enjoying Hunting, Fishing, Hiking, and Geocaching. His passion as a STEM Teacher is to make science "real" for the students and get them away from their devices to experience some "Real Life Time." He looks forward to working with other Master Teachers to help students experience the outdoors while considering their environmental impact.
Stephanie Bock graduated from Webster Schroeder High School as class valedictorian, earned her BS in Elementary Education, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and her MS in Reading and Literacy from SUNY Geneseo. At SUNY Geneseo, Mrs. Bock was awarded the Susan J. Hughes Memorial Endowed Scholarship, Gertrude Dewey Gillespie '39 Endowed Scholarship, and Marjorie Elliot Spezzano '48 Endowed Scholarship for excellence in the School of Education. While at SUNY Geneseo, she pursued a concentration in Dance, and became a Teaching Assistant for Dance History and the Student Assistant Director of the Geneseo Dance Ensemble. Mrs. Bock also completed Dance Masters of America's Teacher Training School, where she received the Dottie McGill Scholarship for her leadership and passion. Mrs. Bock holds six NYS professional certifications, including Early Childhood Education, Childhood Education, Students with Disabilities (Birth-Grade 6), and Literacy (Birth-Grade 12). In the classroom since 2015, she has taught multiple grades in elementary school and currently teaches second grade at the Victor Primary School. Outside of the classroom, she teaches dance, and has participated in various district committees including Independent Reading, Blended Learning, Technology Advisory, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention training, and English Language Arts Curriculum Writing. Mrs. Bock looks forward to bringing her STEM professional learning work to young learners.
Mike Bonadonna earned his BS in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from SUNY Fredonia, Master of Applied Science from Johns Hopkins, MSEd from the University of Rochester, and National Board Certification in Adolescent and Young Adulthood Science. While working in organ transplantation at Johns Hopkins and University of Rochester Medical Center, he found his true passion: teaching. Mr. Bonadonna has taught for 18 years, the past 12 at Brighton where he is teaching Honors and Advanced Placement Biology. He is a volunteer firefighter and an EMT, and uses these experiences to bring practical application and excitement into the classroom. He is the Advisor of several clubs focusing on student relationships including Natural Helpers, Co-Advisor of the Link New Student Transition program, Assistant Director of the Mountain Bound Club and the Outdoor Club which allows students to explore the outdoor classroom, including a ten-day SCUBA trip. Mr. Bonadonna uses these clubs to develop students' leadership and STEM skills. He spends time with his family on the beach, under the water, and camping. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, he is a member of the Regents Chemistry, Regents Living Environment and Make-and-Take Professional Learning Teams, and has participated in the Biology of Cancer mini-course.
Joseph Bonanno earned his BS in Biology with a minor in Secondary Education from SUNY at Albany and his MSEd with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction from SUNY Oswego. Mr. Bonanno has been teaching at Red Creek Central for 16 years and currently teaches Advanced Placement Biology and Regents Physics, and Living Environment to ninth grade students and students in the advanced Middle School program. He is Advisor for the Class of 2020 and Science Honor Society, coach of the Science Olympiad and the Envirothon, and Lead Teacher for Science grades 6-12. He spent the last 15 years as the Head Coach of the Girls Varsity Track and Field team. Outside of Red Creek, Mr. Bonanno is a member of Science Teachers Association of NYS and the Subject Area Rep (SAR) in Biology for the Central Region. He is also a parent volunteer in Boy Scout Pack 50 out of Cato, NY. In his free time, he is an avid trail and road runner. During his first semester with the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. Bonanno has participated in a number of workshops including Beekeeping, Teaching and Leading your Peers, the Biology of Cancer mini-course, and the "STEM in Letchworth State Park" visit with the on-site nature center.
Patrick Bond earned his BA in Geography from SUNY Geneseo, and his MSEd from the University of Rochester. Mr. Bond has been an educator for 13 years. His career has varied within the education field. He began his path toward a formal classroom setting as a Naturalist with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and has since worked for the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services, completed Science Education Research at Towson University in Maryland, and performed Environmental Education outreach in Baltimore City with the Parks and People Foundation-- all prior to beginning his classroom career. He taught at The Barrie School in Maryland, and is currently at Brighton High School, where he teaches Living Environment, Earth Science, and Environmental Science, primarily in the district's Alternative Instruction Model program. Mr. Bond is a member of the District Curriculum Council, has taken part in the district's Science Program Evaluation, and is a past member of the BCSD Restorative Practices committee. Outside of the classroom, he is a member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS and the National Science Teachers Association. He enjoys Alpine and Nordic skiing and assists with the BHS Alpine Ski Team. He also enjoys camping and hiking, and his favorite vacation destination is the Adirondacks. A former volunteer firefighter with Point Pleasant Fire Department in Irondequoit, he now spends much of his free time learning his new favorite sport of Judo. Mr. Bond looks forward to meeting, working with, and learning from other Master Teachers within the program.
Anneliese Bopp earned her BA in Social Work from the University of West Florida, MA in Speech Language Pathology from Nazareth College and is dual certified as an Elementary Education Teacher. In the classroom years, 23 years, Mrs. Bopp teaches 6th Grade General Science and 6th Grade English Language Arts at Sodus Middle School. She was chosen to participate in Centers for Ocean Sciences and Education Excellence's Shipboard and Shoreline Workshop on Lake Ontario. Afterwards, she applied her newfound knowledge to her 6th grade students, beginning a program to test soil and water at various sites around Sodus Point. Later, she presented at the Science Teachers Association of NYS about the program's overall success. When not at the yacht club, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three rescued Australian Shepherds. As a NYS Master Teacher, she has participated in the mini-course on 3-D Printing and is very excited about discovering ways to use the technology to inspire her students.
Marcy Boyd earned her BS in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science from Geneseo State University, MA in Mathematics from Brockport State, and certification in Animal Science. Prior to teaching in public schools, Mrs. Boyd worked as a programmer in finance, taught Computer Science at Rochester Institute of Technology, and was an entrepreneur in health, breeding, and training of American Kennel Club working dogs. In the classroom for 21 years, Mrs. Boyd teaches Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Statistics and Computer Science for high school, college, and Advanced Placement credit at York Central High School. Mrs. Boyd serves as Math Department Coordinator and member of the Data Analysis and Audit Committees, and coach of the Junior Varsity and Youth soccer and Odyssey of the Mind. Mrs. Boyd is active in church media, women's and educational missions groups, with 4-H, animal rescue, and instructs self-defense classes. Mrs. Boyd is a published speaker, from regional to national levels, on topics such as "Bridging the Math Gap", "Parenting the STEM Generation", and "Transforming Math: From phobia to fantastic". Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Boyd has participated in the "Teaching and Leading Your Peers," "History of Calculus," and Beekeeping workshops, and the Mathematical Ideas for Curve Stitching and String mini-course.
Dorothy Brenneis earned her BS at SUNY New Paltz with a course of study in Sociology and Elementary Education and her MS in Elementary Education at Dowling College. She began her career as a middle school science teacher in parochial schools in Queens, NY and moved to the public sector in 1999. Mrs. Brenneis moved to the Rochester area and is currently a 6th grade science teacher at Gates Chili Middle School. She received the GC Pride Award for her work in the GC district. Mrs. Brenneis earned a Youth Asset award from Monroe County. Her Outdoor Club at Gates Chili Middle School received a 2022 Pollinator Pal grant from Kidsgardening.org to develop an outdoor learning space. She runs the Lego Build Club which focuses on non-scripted builds and tinkering with Legos. Outside of school, Mrs. Brenneis leads the Penfield Community Victory Garde, member of the committee to develop and grow this 3-acre property into a garden. She advises scouts on Eagle projects at the site, and leads a children's garden program. Mrs. Brenneis rescues animals, raises native bees and backyard chickens, and loves to garden. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to learn ways to inspire and retain those in the teaching profession.
Julia Brongo Julia Brongo earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from SUNY Oswego and M.S. in Literacy from Nazareth College. In the classroom for 23, she has taught 1st to 4th grades at John Williams Elementary School #5. Ms. Brongo also serves as a Lead Teacher, New Teacher Mentor, and member on many committees within her international school. Ms. Brongo's primary goal is to reach all learners from a variety of backgrounds by creating and fostering a spark of curiosity for more knowledge and question. Ms. Brongo was a certified EMT, and coached soccer, softball, and volleyball at the JV and modified levels. She is certified to teach yoga to children and is currently receiving certification in Mindfulness Stress Reduction. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her three children, stand-up paddleboarding, and practicing yoga. Ms. Brongo is looking forward to collaborating with fellow Master Teachers for STEM initiatives at the elementary level, and growing her practice.
Carrie Bruce earned her BA in Mathematics from LeMoyne College and MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY Brockport. Mrs. Bruce spent the first 13 years of her teaching career working in Rush Henrietta and has since spent the last three years working for her alma mater, Livonia. For the majority of her career, she has worked primarily with 7th and 8th grade students teaching middle school math. She especially enjoys teaching the Algebra curriculum. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Bruce has spent some time coaching softball, soccer, and advising the middle school academic challenge bowl team. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Bruce looks forward to broadening her knowledge of STEM and collaborating with other knowledgeable teachers.
Jeff Bruckman earned his BS in Mathematics from Hobart College and MS in Education from Walden University. In the classroom since 2005, Mr. Bruckman spent 17 years at Rush-Henrietta High School. Now at his alma mater, Churchville-Chili High School, Mr. Bruckman teaches Precalculus, Geometry, and AP Statistics. As a mathematics teacher, he emphasizes using technology to enrich the learning process and providing feedback to students to self-reflect and grow. Within the Churchville community Mr. Bruckman has served as a coach for a multitude of sports from baseball to flag football. He was inspired to teach by his high school chemistry teacher who served as a positive role model leaving Mr. Bruckman a desire to do the same for generations to come. Outside of school, Mr. Bruckman enjoys spending time with his wife and 4 children doing outdoor activities such as camping, boating, four wheeling, hunting, hiking, and homesteading. As a new member of the Master Teacher Program, Mr. Bruckman is looking forward to collaborating with other STEM educators, sharing best practices as well as learning and developing innovative ways to educate and assess the students of today.
Samantha Bruehl earned her BS in Elementary Education K-6 from Bucknell University and MEd in Literacy Education K-12 from Roberts Wesleyan University. Additionally she earned a Letter of Endorsement to teach English Speakers of Other Languages K-12 from Bucknell University and a Gifted Endorsement K-12 from the State of Florida. She started her teaching career at an arts integrated elementary school in Kissimmee, Florida in 2013 where she also worked with the school’s dance program. She is currently teaching fifth grade at Florence Brasser Elementary School in the Gates Chili Central School District. Outside of school she volunteers as a navigator for Powerhouse Youth Group at Park Ridge Free Methodist Church. During her free time she loves to take dance classes, worship with friends, travel, and spend time outdoors with family. She was inspired to pursue a career in teaching after reading “The Freedom Writers’ Diary” by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers in high school, as it led her to want to meet students where they are and have a positive impact on the trajectory of their life stories. As a NYS Master Teacher she's looking forward to collaborating with other educators to bring innovative, fun, and meaningful learning experiences to students in her community. Her hope is that she can use what she learns to provide opportunities for all her students to engage with STEM content, see how they can take what they’re learning into future opportunities, and consider the potential of a career in a STEM field.
Elizabeth Buckley earned her BS in Finance from Siena College and worked in the finance field for several years before completing a Post-Baccalaureate Teacher licensure program at Framingham State College in Massachusetts. She began her teaching career in Massachusetts, in 2004. Upon returning to New York State, she earned her MS in Secondary Math education from SUNY Brockport. Mrs. Buckley currently teaches Regents Geometry, Applied Geometry, Pre- Calculus and AP Calculus. She is a class advisor, new teacher mentor and cooperating teacher for new teacher candidates. Outside of school, Mrs. Buckley enjoys spending time with her husband and son as well as exercising and volunteering with the PTO. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to collaborating with other teachers and evolving in her teaching practice to provide quality learning experiences for her students. Mrs. Buckley encourages students to push their problem-solving skills and refers to the following quote from Albert Einstein in her classroom, “Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.”
Christina Bucker graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Biology from SUNY Fredonia, C.A.S. in Adolescence Education from the University at Buffalo, and M.A. from Stony Brook University. She is currently teaching at Spencerport High School. Mrs. Buckner has taught Living Environment, Chemistry, Food Science, and Forensic Science. Additionally, she is an Adjunct Professor with the Department of Forensic Science at Syracuse University and teaches Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) Forensics. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Buckner serves as the Class of 2021 student council advisor. She participates in a STEM outreach program with her SUPA Forensics classrooms, taking them to elementary schools to provide STEM lessons to students in grades K – 5. Outside of school, Mrs. Buckner coaches her daughter's volleyball team through VFX and the Rochester Youth Volleyball League. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to collaborate with teachers statewide to improve upon her teaching practices.
Marilee Buffum earned her BS in biology and math from SUNY Empire State College, her MSEd in biology and math from St. John Fisher College, and is an alumnus of the Cornell University Institute for Biology Teachers. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Buffum worked in the neonatal intensive care unit at Strong Memorial Hospital for ten years. In the classroom for nine years, she teaches Honors and Core Regents Level Biology at Fairport High School. Inspired by her own 10th grade biology teacher, Mrs. Buffum believes in building strong bonds with students, and served as class and club advisor, and is leading a study trip to Costa Rica this spring. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Buffum has been a member of Fairport's Professional Learning Committee, the Teacher's Advisory Council, and the Gifted and Talented Curriculum Council to name a few! She is also an active member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS and has mentored new teachers at her school. Outside of the school day, Mrs. Buffum enjoys spending time with her seven children and husband. Mrs. Buffum is excited to continue her teaching journey with the NYS Master Teacher Program, and is looking forward to broadening and deepening her content and pedagogical knowledge, and sharing successful practices with colleagues.
Mary Bunn earned her BS in Natural Science from SUNY Geneseo, MS in Elementary Education from SUNY Brockport, and is currently working on her bilingual extension from Nazareth College. Over the past 13 years, Miss Bunn has taught elementary, middle, and high school, and currently teaches 8th grade and Living Environment at Nathaniel Rochester Community School (No. 3) in the Rochester City School District. She has served as a Team Leader, Class Advisor, and member of the Ski Club, and has received awards for "Going Above and Beyond" in her school. Within the district, Miss Bunn has written curriculum and offered professional development on various topics including assessment design, aligning lessons to NYS standards, the 4th grade NYS Elementary Science Exam, and the 8th grade NYS Intermediate Level Science Exam. Miss Bunn's favorite thing to do right now is spend time with her family and her newborn, Russell, who has just learned to crawl and is keeping her very busy. As a NYS Master Teacher, Miss Bunn is looking forward to attending the upcoming mini-course on STEM cells, and participating in a Biology Professional Learning Team.
Elizabeth Burns earned her BS in Chemistry from LeMoyne College and MS in Education from Nazareth College. Prior to choosing a path in education, Mrs. Burns worked as an Organic Chemist at Bristol-Myers Squibb and as a Quality Assurance Engineer and Chemical Buyer at Eastman Kodak Company. Now in her 17th year of teaching, she teaches Local Chemistry, Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA)/Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry and SUPA Forensic Science at Fairport High School. She also serves as the ChemClub Advisor. Mrs. Burns also teaches Forensic Science as an adjunct professor at Syracuse University during the summer. Mrs. Burns is an active member in the Rochester Section of the American Chemical Society (ACS) where she currently serves as a member-at-large on the Executive Committee, Chair of the High School Awards, and Chair of the Teacher of the Year Award. She is also a member of the American Association of Chemistry Teachers (AACT) and the Science Teachers' Association of New York State (STANYS). As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Burns looks forward to the upcoming content on Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL) and joining the Chemistry Professional Learning Team.
Mark Busacco earned his BA in Mathematics and MS in Education from SUNY Geneseo. Currently, he teaches Common Core Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus and Advanced Placement Calculus BC at Greece Arcadia High School where he is a Student Council advisor and a Ski Club chaperone. Mr. Busacco began teaching in 1990 at the Lewis E. Rowe Elementary School in Las Vegas, Nevada where he taught fifth grade deaf and hearing impaired students. Since then, he has taught at the Kenny C. Guinn Junior High School, The Norman Howard School, Odyssey and at his current school; Greece Arcadia High School. He credits his teachers at Fairport High School for inspiring him to become a teacher. Mr. Busacco works to show his students that mathematics is a useful language that allows one to measure and order for the purpose of making prediction. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Busacco is looking forward to taking mini-courses that explore new applications of STEM content.
Laura Byrne earned a BS in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Rochester, followed by an MS in Inclusive Adolescent Science Education from The College at Brockport. During this time, she worked as an astrophysicist studying protostellar disk evolution. This work took her to observe protostellar disks using the CalTech Submillimeter Observatory in Mauna Kea, Hawaii and was ultimately published in the Astrophysical Journal. Laura started at Brighton High School in 2013, where she teaches Regents Physics and Principles of Physics. In addition, she advises the school's League of Legends eSports team, MasterMinds team, Physics Club, and mentors students entering local and statewide science fairs. Laura is known for her nerdy style and enjoys the intersection of science, engineering, and fashion. As a senior fellow at the Knowles Teacher Initiative, she collaborates and shares her passion with STEM educators nationwide. Laura is a maker, and she looks forward to thinking about creativity and engineering education with other Master Teachers.
Kaitlin Calabresi earned her BS in Biology, along with a minor in Chemistry, from Nazareth College and her MS in Secondary Special Education from Utica College. Mrs. Calabresi has been teaching science for seven years, ranging from fifth and sixth grade Geology to ninth grade NYS Regents Living Environment where she was able to utilize her creativity to engage students in active learning. She currently teaches Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, and Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Gemini Biology in East Bloomfield Central School District. She strives to inspire her students to embrace challenges and take risks, both academic and extracurricular. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Calabresi is an active member of the school community as the advisor of National Honor Society and as mentor to a new science colleague. She also coaches Cross Country and Track and Field. Her personal interests include running, kayaking, cycling, camping, and hiking with her two yellow labs. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Calabresi is looking forward to collaborating with colleagues regionally and statewide.
Inspired by her high school chemistry teacher, Nicole Calzi earned her BS in Chemistry and Secondary Education Certification from SUNY Geneseo and MSEd in Adolescent Chemistry Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for 13 years, Mrs. Calzi teaches Advanced Placement, Regents, and Local Chemistry at Rush-Henrietta Senior High School. Mrs. Calzi is a founding member and coordinator of Rush-Henrietta's Link Crew student leadership program. She also collaborates with the Chemistry/Biochemistry department at SUNY Geneseo to implement a peer-mentorship program between Rush-Henrietta and Geneseo chemistry students. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Calzi enjoys spending time with her family, exploring nature, hiking, running, reading, and supporting the Buffalo Bills. Mrs. Calzi has an avid love and passion for working with high school students and, as a Master Teacher, looks forward to finding unique and creative ways to connect with her students, their families, and the Rush-Henrietta community.
Marsha Carey earned her BA in Geology & Environmental Studies from Binghamton University and MSEd from University at Buffalo. Prior to teaching, Marsha volunteered with Student Conservation Association for the Bureau of Land Management in California, and the National Park Service at the Grand Canyon. Marsha then worked seasonally as a park ranger, guide, and hydrologist assistant at Grand Canyon and Mammoth Cave National Parks, studied glacial geology with Humboldt Field Institute in Maine, and was a ski instructor at Copper Mountain, Colorado. Her passion for teaching began in the outdoors and continued into the classroom in 1997. Marsha teaches eighth grade Earth Science and Physics at Calkins Road Middle School in Pittsford School District. She worked six summers as a science instructor and counselor at four different camps, including Infotonics at Nazareth College and Finger Lakes Community College. She is the Science Olympiad team advisor, a district mentor, coached diving, and received NYS Education Department and NYS United Teachers recognition awards for National Board Certification in Adolescent Science. Marsha shares her passion for stewardship, nature, and making STEM relevant in her classroom. She enjoys hiking and camping adventures in Colorado and the Adirondacks with her family. As a NYS Master Teacher, Marsha is excited for field work and courses like Girls in STEM.
Kathleen Cefalo earned her BA in mathematics, certification in Secondary Education and MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY Geneseo. All 13 years of teaching experience have been at Geneseo Central High School where she has taught Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Consumer Math, Computer Programming and Leadership in Action. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Cefalo has served as Senior Class Advisor, Mentor on the school's Mentor-Intern Program, and Student Council Advisor for 12 years, during which time she chaperoned students to various district, state and national leadership conferences. In her spare time, Mrs. Cefalo participates in different area running races including half marathons, marathons, and triathlons. She is also very passionate about traveling. As Leonardo da Vinci once stated, "For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return." From Italy to Hawaii, Mrs. Cefalo has explored many locations and hopes to continue learning and experiencing cultures from across the world. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Cefalo looks forwarding to deepening her content and pedagogical knowledge, and has been most excited by her two first mini-courses, 3D Printing and Evolution and Health.
Kristie Cellura earned her BS in Childhood Education from SUNY Brockport and MS in Literacy from Roberts Wesleyan. She received the Marguerite Hare Brown Award for Student Teaching after her placement in Greece Central where she also then began her teaching career. She has been teaching in the Greece Central School District since 2004. During this time she has been a 2nd grade classroom teacher, a Teacher Leader, and for the past 10 years a Math Intervention Teacher at Lakeshore Elementary School. As a Math Intervention Teacher for Grades 3, 4, and 5 she believes in building positive connections with childrento help them learn to take risks and make mistakes to develop a love of learning math. She especially enjoys engaging students in high level problem solving activities that involve mathematical discourse between the students. She also serves on the District Culture and Climate team and her building’s School Improvement Team. Mrs. Cellura is also the Lighthouse Coordinator for her school's Leader in Me program and facilitates the student-led Live Morning News Show. Mrs. Cellura helped to develop and create the After School Club program that is consistently a strong school program. Outside of school, Mrs. Cellura loves making memories with her husband and 2 children by traveling, playing golf, and taking walks with their dog Ruby. She is excited to be a member of the NYS Master Teacher Program to work with other colleagues who have a passion for teaching math!
Matt Chapman started teaching science in 2003 at Rush-Henrietta and has been meeting the needs of that diverse community of learners ever since. After earning a BS in Biology from SUNY Cortland, Mr. Chapman went on to obtain an MS in Secondary Science Education from SUNY Brockport, and has pursued a certificate in weather forecasting from Penn State University. As a science teacher since 2002, he has taught middle school science, biology, chemistry, AP environmental science, and too many science electives to list. Mr. Chapman spends his free time outdoors and has been inspired by reading My Side of the Mountain as a child and traveling across the country via train recently. As an avid outdoorsman, hunter, hiker, and conservationist, he feels most at home in the out-of-doors. He’s seen sunrise from the easternmost point of the United States and sunset from the westernmost point, and has plans to see many of the scenic vistas in between. When he is not working, he spends time with his college-aged children or outside exploring some of the many beautiful locations western NY has to offer. He is looking forward to collaborating with other master teachers to learn, share, and continue his passion for science education.
Alicia Cheng earned her BA in Biology from the University of Rochester and MS in Science Education from University of Rochester Warner School. She became inspired to become a teacher through volunteer work in an urban Pre-School classroom. She now happily teaches 7th grade science at East High School in Rochester City School District. Ms. Cheng is passionate about making learning relevant and accessible to all students through inquiry-based activities. She often reaches out to the community to assist in making learning real for her students. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Cheng looks forward to collaborating with other NYS Master Teachers to best support English as a New Language (ENL) students in science, and networking to integrate the outside community into the classroom.
Jeffery Cheramie earned his BS in Biological Sciences from Louisiana Tech University, Advanced Certificate in Forensic Anthropology from Mercyhurst College, his Secondary Science Certification from Roberts Wesleyan College, and his Administrative Certification from the Warner School of Education. Mr. Cheramie has been a science educator for the past 14 years at Palmyra Macedon High School, and has taught a number of different courses ranging from Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Level science courses to locally designed electives. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Cheramie is the head chaperone for the Boys Soccer Games, a Science Olympiad Coach, and is planning his first student ecological outing to Costa Rica during the summer of 2016. In his free time, Mr. Cheramie is an avid woodworker. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Cheramie looks forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers to augment both his content and pedagogical knowledge as well as serve as a resource to novice STEM teachers.
Michael Chiulli earned his B.S. and M.A. in Biology from SUNY Geneseo and his M.S.Ed. in Biology Education from the University of Rochester. In the classroom for 18 years, the past 12 at Le Roy Junior-Senior High School, Mr. Chiulli teaches Living Environment, AP Biology, and an Infectious Diseases elective class. Prior to teaching, he worked as a clinical/research tech at the University of Rochester Medical Center's Department of Infectious Diseases, doing research for the AIDS Clinical Trials Group and AIDS Vaccine Evaluation Unit. While at Le Roy, Mr. Chiulli has been awarded grants from the Five Star Bank-Wycoff Family Foundation and America's Farmers Grow Rural Education, both of which he has used to increase Le Roy students' access to biotechnology. Since 2015, he has participated in the Western New York Genetics in Research Partnership leading an interactive project in a genomic annotation with students. Outside of school, Mr. Chiulli is involved with the Alpha Chi Rho (AXP) national fraternity, serving as their National Scholarship Officer. He is looking forward to collaborating with and learning from his fellow Master Teachers, especially in the areas of the implications for cognitive research on teaching and students' study habits, and improving practices in mentoring student teachers.
Korey Cianfrocco was Valedictorian of Liverpool High School and earned her BA in Mathematics from Hamilton College. Carrying a 4.0 GPA as a 3-sport athlete, she received the inaugural Korey O'Malley Scholar Athlete Award, created in her name at Hamilton College. She completed a year of graduate work in pure mathematics at University of Massachusetts, and then earned her MS in Mathematics Education at Syracuse University. She taught undergraduate math classes for both universities, earning an Award of Appreciation for Excellence in Teaching. Korey began teaching Secondary Mathematics in 2004 and has taught various levels of Math 8, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus and Calculus. She loves helping students make connections between different concepts within mathematics, as well as supporting them in their extra-curricular endeavors. Currently "Cfroc" teaches Geometry and Algebra 2 at Fairport High School and also enjoys her roles in the district as Girls Modified Volleyball Coach and Girls Varsity Softball Assistant Coach. Mrs. Cianfrocco is a member of Rochester Institute of Technology's Alliance of Math Educators, and she is very excited for the additional professional development the Master Teacher Program will provide. She looks forward to taking mini-courses, meeting with her cohort, and participating in the Geometry Professional Learning Team.
Kevin Cleland earned his BA in Mathematics and MS in Adolescent Mathematics Education from The State University of New York at Buffalo. He has been teaching mathematics in the Rochester area since 2008. The decision to become a teacher was truly inspired by the great teachers he has learned from since the first grade. Mr. Cleland is currently teaching Common Core Algebra, Common Core Geometry, and Introduction to Computer Science at Gates Chili High School in Rochester, NY. In addition, he co-advises his middle school's Tech Club—teaching young students to write their own video games, is assistant coach of the LEGO Robotics Team, is a contributing member of his district's Technology Innovation Team, and tutors for the Hillside Work-Scholarship Program. He is passionate about neuroscience, behavioral economics, growth mindset, computer science, artificial intelligence, astrophysics, and is even more passionate about introducing his students to those fields. In his free time, he enjoys hiking—exploring America's National Parks and slowly taking down the Adirondacks' 46 High Peaks. He is looking forward to learning as much as possible from his fellow Master Teachers, especially in regards to the implications of neuroscience, growth mindset, and behavioral economics for education, as well as, the future of computer science.
Paul Conrow earned his BS in Chemistry and his education credentials at SUNY Geneseo and his MS in Chemistry from Rochester Institute of Technology. He is a 15-year veteran teacher at his alma mater, East High School in the Rochester City School District. He is particularly excited that his children attend East High. Mr. Conrow began his career as a Physics and Chemistry teacher, and now teaches Precision Optics, a sequence of courses unique to East High School. It is supported by a significant NYS Education Department STEM grant that equips the school with a million-dollar facility to train students in the manufacture, testing, and design of industrial optical systems. The Precision Optics program, which includes an after-school club and summer experience, gives students workplace skills and knowledge that prepares them to successfully pursue degrees and careers in optics. Mr. Conrow is a passionate city resident who cherishes the dynamic and vibrant culture of his neighborhood and school. During his first semester with the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. Conrow participated in several workshops including "Innovations in Next Generation Energy and Mobility Systems," "Teaching and Leading Your Peers," and "Teaching about Controversial Issues," and the "Photoresists: from Microelectronic Devices to Tissue Engineering" mini-course.
Amanda Cooney received her BS in Elementary Education from SUNY Geneseo and her MA in Teaching and Learning from Kaplan University. Mrs. Cooney has been working at Marcus Whitman as a High School Math Teacher since 2006 and has taught a variety of courses, most recently Algebra 2 and Gemini Math of Money. Beyond the classroom, she is the Math Department Chairperson, a Technology Coach, and the Teacher’s Association President. Amanda believes that her classroom is an important place for not only learning math, but practicing life skills that will extend beyond graduation. Outside of school, Amanda enjoys time on Canandaigua Lake, watching her son play sports, and spending time at her home with her goats, chickens, and in the garden. As a Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating with other educators to bring engaging and fun activities to her students.
Nicole Coppola earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MSEd in Educational Technology from Nazareth College. She currently teaches Algebra and International Baccalaureate Mathematics SL at Hilton High School – where she has worked for nine years. Mrs. Coppola relishes moments when students are working together— voicing ideas, investigating trends, creating their own examples. She finds that these are the moments when students realize math is not solely about the final answer but rather the path used to get there. As Student Council co-advisor, Mrs. Coppola can be found brainstorming the world's most embarrassing pep rally games or ways to unify the Student Body around a cause. She values the time she spends with student leaders, as they teach her that no task is too big through cooperation. Professionally, Ms. Coppola is a NYS Association for Computers and Technology in Education (NYSCATE) grant recipient, Texas Instruments Teacher Leader, and has led multiple professional development courses with focus on using technology to build conceptual understanding. When not in the classroom, Mrs. Coppola enjoys cooking and traveling. She loves spending time with her husband, Matt and dog, Kevin. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited for the opportunity to grow her content and pedagogical knowledge through collaboration with other Master Teachers.
Amber Corbin earned her BS in Medical Technology from SUNY Fredonia, certifications from the American Society of Clinical Pathologist and National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, and MSEd from SUNY Geneseo. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Corbin worked at a teaching hospital in the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory with senior college students. She performed and analyzed the results of complex scientific tests, collaborating with physicians and laboratory directors on patient data. Mrs. Corbin has been in the classroom for over 20 years, and currently teaches Regents and Honors Living Environment. Mrs. Corbin is the PreK-12 Science Curriculum Coordinator for her district, assisting with the implementation of the NYS Science Learning Standards, and the Adviser to the High School Science Olympiad Team and National Honor Society. Mrs. Corbin is a member of Science Teacher Association of NYS and was part of the Bio-Chem Professional Development Mentor Network. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Corbin is a member of the Biology Professional Learning Team, and participated in the "Make-and-Take," "Integrating Engineering in Any Classroom with NASA Design Challenges," Waste to Energy," and "Teaching and Leading Your Peers" workshops, and the "Biology of Cancer" mini-course.
Andrew Corey earned his B.A. in Biology from Hamilton College and M.S. in Science Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for 13 years, Mr. Corey currently teaches Regents Biology and Environmental Science. Prior to teaching, he served with AmeriCorps in Nevada and participated in a Thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail. Mr. Corey also worked at the University of Rochester in the Neurobiology and Anatomy department as a laboratory technician. Afterwards, he found himself in Asia, volunteering with environmental groups and landing his first teaching position in Taiwan at an English Language school before earning his Masters. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Corey advises the Green Team/Eco-Geeks, a student-led environmental club focusing on making the school community more sustainable and educating students about environmental issues. In 2018, the club received a Finger Lakes STEM Hub Award for their efforts. Outside of school, he coaches his daughters' Odyssey of the Mind and Nordic Ski teams (Rochester Cross Country Ski Federation). In summer 2019, he took his family on the “Great American Road Trip,” where they saw grizzly bears, rode horses, climbed mountains and survived a Badlands storm. Mr. Corey is continuously inspired by his students and believes that education happens all the time. He is looking forward to learning from his creative, knowledge-loving peers in the Master Teacher Program.
Andrea Costanza earned her BS in Speech Languae Disorders from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Geosciences from Mississippi State University. She teaches 9th grade Earth Science at Minerva DeLand in Fairport. During her ten years of teaching, she has been a strong advocate for student success, and her teaching practice includes providing extensive enrichment and support opportunities outside the classroom that encourage students to be proactive self advocates. Her professional interests focus on meteorology and storm chasing, and the implementation a flipped classroom model. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Costanza serves as teacher representative for the Parent Teacher Student Association, and enjoys developing and chaperoning school trips. In the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Costanza co-presented a workshop on the five most misunderstood topics in each STEM discipline as reported by her colleagues, and is a member of the Professional Learning Team exploring ways to support new teachers.
Mary Courtney earned her BS Chemistry from St. Lawrence University, Master of Arts in Teaching from SUNY Empire State College, and School Building Leader certification from University of Rochester. Prior to teaching, Ms. Courtney worked as a polyurethane foam chemist and environmental consultant to the United Nations on the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Ms. Courtney began teaching in 2007, and currently teaches Regents Chemistry at East High School. She received a First Year Teacher of the Year award in Rochester City School District, and was named American Chemical Society Chemistry Teacher of the Year. She advises National Honor Society, coordinates Coding Academy, has been judge for the Science Olympiad, and coached teams in NOBCCHE (National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers) Science Bowl. She coached two teams in Student Spaceflight Experiment Program. Ms. Courtney is a member of American Association of Chemistry Teachers, American Chemical Society, and Science Teachers Association of NYS. She is Corresponding Secretary for NY8 Chapter of Blue Star Mothers, an active participant in Rochester Nature Photographers Meetup, and Palmyra-Macedon Rotary Club where she was awarded Rotarian of the Year and Paul Harris Fellow. She has photos published in Life in the Finger Lakes magazine and the 2019 Erie Canalways calendar. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to working with colleagues to advance partnerships and communication with parents and families, particularly in urban environments with diverse populations.
Christina Crawford earned her BS in Mathematics from SUNY Cortland and MS in Curriculum & Instruction from SUNY Oswego. In her 24th year of teaching at Mynderse Academy in the Seneca Falls Central School District, Mrs. Crawford currently teaches Algebra and Advanced Placement Calculus. For the past seven years, she has taught regional summer school for Cayuga Onondaga BOCES. In addition, Mrs. Crawford serves as the Yearbook Business Advisor (handling all financial aspects of the yearbook, including sales and marketing), and Senior Class Advisor (planning events such as the “100 Days till graduation” breakfast, the senior ball & after party, the senior trip to Woodloch Pines, and graduation). Through these roles, Mrs. Crawford works with community leaders and businesses to provide financial support for school events. Previous roles have included serving on the school improvement committee and building council. She has collaborated on numerous curriculum projects with her colleagues and has mentored many pre-service teachers. Mrs. Crawford enjoys attending students' sporting events and school performances. Outside of school, she loves to spend time with her husband and two children, and enjoys traveling to the Adirondacks, Myrtle Beach, and Disney World. She is also an avid fan of Syracuse basketball and the San Francisco 49ers. Mrs. Crawford is excited to collaborate with other STEM professionals in the NYSMTP to expand her knowledge and bring new educational experiences back to her school community.
Andrew Creahan earned his BS in Childhood and Special Education from SUNY Geneseo, and MS as a Curriculum Specialist from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Creahan has been teaching first grade at Brooks Hill Elementary School in Fairport for 18 years. He has experience as a special educator, 4th grade teacher, 6th grade teacher, and an English as a New Language (ENL) partner-teacher. Within the district, Mr. Creahan served as building representative in the Fairport Educators Association, a member of the District Advisory Committee, and the District Elementary Council. Outside of school, he has helped students as a ski club coordinator and as a rugby coach for many years. He is an avid volunteer in the school community, regularly appearing at events such as the English-as-a-New-Language (ENL) Thanksgiving Dinner and Fall Fun Fair. Mr. Creahan enjoys spending time with his family and dog while pursuing his love of sports and the outdoors. He believes in lifelong learning and as a NYS Master Teacher he will be able to model for his students how to do just that. He looks forward to collaborating with other talented educators from across the region and state.
Michael Cronmiller earned his BS in physics at Ithaca College and Masters of Arts in Teaching from SUNY Cortland with a concentration in Physics. In the classroom 23 years, Mr. Cronmiller teaches 7th Grade Life Science, 8th Grade Physical Science, Advance Placement Physics, Regents Earth Science, Regents Physics, and Principles of Engineering at Livonia Central School. In addition, he served as the Science Department Chair for six years, and currently teaches RobotC programming through Rochester Institute of Technology's "Project Lead the Way" Program. Mr. Cronmiller coached the Science Olympiad team for 15 years and numerous athletic teams. Today, he coaches the Robotics Team and the Varsity Golf Team. In the summer, Mr. Cronmiller spends his time as a Core Training Instructor for "Project Lead the Way." Mr. Cronmiller finds teaching inspiration in the words of STEM innovator Albert Einstein, who recognized that failing is an inevitable part of innovation. Einstein is quoted as having said, "A person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new."
Christopher Crowell earned his BS in Secondary Education/Physics from SUNY Oswego and his MS in Secondary Education with a concentration in Earth Science from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Crowell has been teaching different levels of Physics and Earth Science in New York State for 28 years, with the last 13 years at Spencerport High School. Presently, Mr. Crowell teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Physics C, AP Physics 1, and Regents Earth Science, and serves as the High School Science Teacher Leader. While at Spencerport, Mr. Crowell coached the Boys Varsity Basketball team, earning the Tom Downey Coach of the Year Award during the 2011-12 season. He also spent time coaching the Unified Basketball team, in which students with special needs compete with general education students against other schools. Outside of Mr. Crowell's teaching responsibilities, he is a member of the Equitable Grading Committee, and has participated in both the 6 – 12 Homework Ad Hoc Committee and District Strategic Planning Committee. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Crowell is looking forward to continuing his growth and evolution as a teacher and leader in his school for students and staff alike, in both content and best practices. He is also looking forward to mentoring new teachers and participating in sessions that will help in the implementation of the NYSSLS within the coming years.
Stephen Cudzilo earned his BS in Earth Science and MSEd from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Cudzilo has been the classroom for 17 years, for 15 at Merton Williams Middle School in Hilton teaching Accelerated Earth Science to 8th graders. In 2011, Mr. Cudzilo earned his National Board Certification, and in 2013, was honored as the Hilton Schools Teacher of the Year. At school, Mr. Cudzilo has served for many years as Co-Advisor of the Science Olympiad Team, and the National Junior Honor Society, and as Science Department Liaison. Mr. Cudzilo is described as a person who strives to want to know everything about everything. In the classroom, Mr. Cudzilo endeavors to awaken the same curiosity in his students, encouraging them to be critical thinkers and to question everything about the world around them. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Cudzilo is very excited to participate in the numerous science professional development opportunities as well as to collaborate with and learn from other Master Teachers. Outside of school, Mr. Cudzilo enjoys spending time with his family and working outside, taking care of his family's two horses.
Kathleen Curtis earned her BA in Mathematical Sciences and BA in psychology from Binghamton University, and Master of Science for Teachers from SUNY Potsdam. During graduate school, she worked in rural, suburban, and urban schools in Jefferson and Monroe counties. In the classroom 19 years, Ms. Curtis teaches Pre-Calculus and Algebra I at Pittsford Sutherland High School. She has worked on various state committees including the NYS United Teachers Subject Area Committee for Mathematics and more recently, the NYS Education Department Content Area Panel. Her continued interest in mathematics education includes interdisciplinary content and applications for mathematics. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating with colleagues in the Finger Lakes region to elevate secondary schools mathematical instruction. When Ms. Curtis is not working through math problems and lesson planning, she is with her active family, her husband and two young sons. She also enjoys skiing, skating, biking, golfing, playing soccer, or any other available sport.
Dan Dalmat earned his AS from Tomkins Cortland Community College, BS in Earth Science from SUNY Fredonia, and MA in Climate and Society from Columbia University. He continued his education at Buffalo State College studying Physics and holds NYS Professional Certifications in Physics, Earth Science and General Physical Sciences. In the classroom ten years, Mr. Dalmat teaches Regents Earth Science, Regents Physics and Gemini Physics at Honeoye Central School. When not in the classroom, he enjoys coaching Odyssey of the Mind and leading the Honeoye Quidditch Club. Outside of school Mr. Dalmat likes skiing, biking, and hiking the many Finger Lakes gorges. During his summer, he works with Rochester City School District students through the Rochester Young Scholars Academy at SUNY Geneseo. As a Master Teacher, Mr. Dalmat is looking forward to the opportunities he will have to further hone his teaching skills by working with the fellow Master Teachers in Professional Learning Teams.
Chris Davidson earned his BS in Geology from the University at Buffalo and MS in secondary Earth Science Education from the University of Rochester. Mr. Davidson worked as a field geologist for seven years before teaching Regents Earth Science at Geneseo High School. In the classroom for seven years, his professional interests focus on engaging students by using local issues and problems that are related to earth science, such as discussions around hydrofracing, salt mine desalinization, Seneca Lake water quality and local fossil identification. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Davidson is a member of the National Earth Science Teachers Association and National Science Teachers Association. In his first year with the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. Davidson has participated in a number of workshops including The Big Bang, Bayesian Statistics, Chemistry of Nutrition and Global Climate Change as well as the Safety of Genetically Engineered Food mini-course. What he loves about teaching Earth Science are the connections between the topics he teaches in class and the local community. These connections help students value the course content and engage more in discussion.
Jeffrey Decker earned his BS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego, and MS in Math, Science, and Technology from St. John Fisher College. Mr. Decker has been teaching at Kendall Junior/Senior High School for 16 years and is currently teaching Principles of Engineering, Digital Photography and Computer Graphics, Introduction to Technology, and Design and Drawing for Production. During his tenure at Kendall Central Schools, Mr. Decker has twice been named Teacher of the Year. Outside the classroom, Mr. Decker enjoys chaperoning school trips and currently serves as the Technology Department Chair, Senior Class Advisor, and Ski Club Advisor. As an event coordinator for the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming region GCC Tech Wars, he thoroughly enjoys bringing Kendall students to experience spirited competition in various STEM-related events. Previously, Mr. Decker served as the yearbook advisor, the Future Farmers of America advisor, and set designer for the school drama club productions. In his free time, he enjoys camping and boating in the Adirondacks with his family and friends. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Decker is looking forward to collaborating with other educators to bring new opportunities back to his school and classroom.
Nicole Denissoff earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Brockport and her MSEd in Adolescent Literacy and Technology from Walden University. Mrs. Denissoff started her career in Elmira, teaching several science electives, coaching Track and Field, and participating on the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Team. She then taught grades 9-12 Honors Biology, Forensic Science, Consumer Chemistry, and Living Environment in Ithaca, where she received the New Teacher of the Year award in 2013 for exemplifying enthusiasm and creativity in the classroom. Mrs. Denissoff is a Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers alumna. She is currently teaching eighth grade science and Living Environment at Dake Junior High School, where she is a member of the School Based Planning Team. Mrs. Denissoff has experience as a special education case manager and has participated in various co-teaching models. Her dual background drives her passion for designing relevant, rigorous science instruction that promotes mastery learning for all students. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Denissoff enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and exploring nature. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, she is a member of the Regents Biology Professional Learning Team, and has participated in workshops on "Waste to Energy," and "Teaching Controversial Issues," and the "Biology of Cancer" mini-course.
Jennifer DeWitte earned her BS in Technology Education at Oswego State University of New York, MS in School Administration and Supervision at Oswego State University of New York, and Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration at SUNY Brockport. Mrs. DeWitte has been a secondary teacher since 1999. She teaches STEM courses at Webster Thomas High School. Her courses include Design Drawing for Production, Electricity/Digital Electronics, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, and Engineering Design and Development. She is an instructor of Project Lead the Way courses as well as Dual Certification courses with local colleges. In the school community, Mrs. DeWitte serves on the Leadership Team and as a Committee Member for the Multi-Tier Student Support Team and as an Advisor for the Sources of Strength program. Outside of the classroom she is the Boys Modified Volleyball Coach and liaison for the Boys Varsity Soccer team. Mrs. DeWitte is currently pursuing National Board Certification. Inspiration for instruction comes from research and is also student-interest driven. She believes that involving students in curricular choices allows for a greater “buy-in” during instruction. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family, being active outside, gardening, and home remodeling. Mrs. DeWitte's favorite Sunday pastime is watching football, cheering on the Patriots.
Richard Doan Jr earned his A.A. from Cayuga Community College, B.S. in Biology from SUNY Fredonia, and M.S. in Secondary Education from LeMoyne College. Mr. Doan began teaching Regents Chemistry at Phelps Clifton Springs Central School District in September of 1999. During his tenure at Midlakes High School, he has taught General Chemistry, Regents Chemistry, and Gemini Environmental Science through Finger Lakes Community College. He serves as the Science Department Chair, is a committee member for the National Honor Society, and is the Junior Class Advisor. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Doan coached lacrosse at the high school and youth level for seventeen years. During his free time, Mr. Doan enjoys hiking and camping with his family as well as hunting and fishing around the Finger Lakes region. Mr. Doan is passionate about the success of his students in chemistry and has strived during his years of teaching to make chemistry accessible and to reach as many students as possible. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Doan is looking forward to not only learning but being able to share his new knowledge with other science teachers in his Science Department.
Erin Dobbins earned her BS in biology with a minor in Chemistry from Le Moyne College, her MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Salisbury University, and is a doctoral candidate for a PhD in STEM Education from The Ohio State University. She has taught chemistry, biology, physics, forensics, food science and engineering in multiple states including MD, DE, OH, CT and NY for the past 15 years. Currently, she teaches 8th grade science and Living Environment at Spry Middle School where she also serves as the Lead Teacher for the Science Department. In addition, Mrs. Dobbins is an adjunct professor in the School of Education at St. John Fisher University teaching graduate-level courses to preservice math, science and elementary teachers. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Dobbins enjoys spending time with her active family outdoors and on the athletic fields. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Dobbins is looking forward to learning from and collaborating with other Master Teachers.
Virginia Donahue earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Oswego, and Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education from SUNY Cortland. For the past 11 years, she has taught Advanced Placement Biology, and Living Environment in the Fairport Central School District. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ms. Donahue has participated in many aspects of school life: She served as an advisor to class officers, is a member of the Fairport Teacher Advisory Committee, and the Next Generation Science Standards Curriculum Pathway Team, and a participant in a SEED (Small Enterprise Economic Development) Program. Outside the classroom, Ms. Donahue enjoys spending time with her husband and two young sons traveling and camping. In her classroom, she is motivated by the words of Carl Sagan: "Not explaining science seems to me perverse. When you're in love, you want to tell the world." As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Donahue is excited to collaborate with other accomplished educators to improve her own instruction and to participate in a variety of professional development opportunities.
Caroline Donovan earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MS in STEM Education from St. John Fisher College. Mrs. Donovan spent the first 12 years of her teaching career in the Williamson Central School District. She currently teaches Geometry and Geometry Enriched, and has also taught Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Intermediate Algebra and Survey of Math. She has served as a new teacher mentor, student mentor, Link Crew leader, technology integration committee member, and building planning team member. Mrs. Donovan is passionate about making the study of mathematics engaging and relevant. She hopes to not only extend her love of mathematics to her students, but also help her students become more confident in utilizing their problem solving skills to tackle mathematical situations using a variety of resources. She is also passionate about educating the whole student, encouraging students by practicing stress reducing mindfulness in the classroom. Outside of her professional life, Mrs. Donovan enjoys spending time with her husband, three energetic young children, and two dogs. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating with other teachers to provide a more meaningful educational experience for her students.
Jennifer DuBreck earned her BA in Biology from University of Rochester and an MS in Science Education from Roberts Wesleyan College. As an undergraduate, she was given the opportunity to study gene modification techniques in a laboratory at the medical center which fueled her love of learning and excitement for the ever-changing world of science. Ms. DuBreck currently teaches Regents Living Environment to both high school and middle school students. Having been at Greece Odyssey Academy for 24 years, she also taught International Baccalaureate and a variety of science electives. Outside of the classroom, Ms. DuBreck serves as a member of the district’s Science Instructional Leader Network, a district science mentor teacher, and the building science department leader. In recent years, she has proudly served on the Guardians of Equity Committee planning and leading professional development on culturally responsive education as well as participating in a grant funded project through the Margaret Warner School of Education on justice-centered science teaching practices. Outside of school, Ms. DuBreck enjoys attending any kind of baseball game and vacationing with her family . As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited about professional development opportunities that focus on equitable instruction in the classroom using natural phenomena and a 3D learning approach. She is also looking forward to collaborating with colleagues on teaching strategies and best practices.
LaToya Dunbar earned her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Geology, B.A. in Brain and Cognitive Science, M.S. in Teaching Secondary Earth Science, and M.S. in Teaching Secondary Inclusion from the University of Rochester. Ms. Dunbar is currently a high school Earth Science teacher at Integrated Arts and Technology High School, providing students with an authentic problem-based expeditionary projects in an urban setting. She was an Urban Teaching and Leadership Scholar and has been teaching in urban classrooms for ten years. Outside of the classroom, she developed a teacher-led learning walk program at her current school and has presented at the annual conference of the Science Teachers Association of NYS. Ms. Dunbar was a state champion sprinter on her college track & field team and now enjoys coaches sharing her love for track with her students, helping them become collegiate athletes. As a NYS Master teacher, she is looking forward to learning and collaborating with other Master Teachers and mentoring new teachers. Her favorite quote to share with her students is from Stephen Hawking “One of the basic rules of the universe is that nothing is perfect. Perfection simply doesn't exist… without imperfection, neither you nor I would exist.” Embrace your imperfections.
David Ebersole earned his BS in Science Education from the Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania and MSEd in Education from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Ebersole received the Rochester Area Excellence in STEM Teaching Award from the Rochester Area Colleges Center for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, which included attendance at the American Technology Council/Structural Engineering Institute in San Francisco, along with a $10,000 classroom makeover for innovative multi-grade learning activities. As an Eagle Scout, Mr. Ebersole began teaching, as a boy, outdoor survival skills to younger scouts and adults. In 1990, he began teaching Science grades 3-5, Middle School Science, Earth Science, and Regents Physics. He has taught Science 8 and Regents Earth Science at Greece Athena Middle School for 19 years and 29 years overall. He has served on multiple building and district committees on science policy and implementation, and is a member of the district science leadership team. He provides professional development to building and district staff on classroom tech, Google Classroom, Next Generation Science Standards, and YouTube in the classroom. Mr. Ebersole has dressed as a wizard for science's historical perspective, a zombie for his genetics unit, and a detective for the observation/inference crime scene among others. Very active in the Boy Scouts, Mr. Ebersole is the STEM coordinator for Iroquois Trail Council. He has pioneered the Nova and Supernova programs where boys (and now also girls) earn these awards by producing complex STEM projects. He is very interested in joining his colleagues in implementing the Next Generation Science Standards.
Adam Eck earned his BS in Physics and Mathematics Secondary Education from SUNY Cortland and his MS. in Math, Science and Technology Education from St. John Fisher College. Inspired by many amazing teachers, Mr. Eck has wanted to be a teacher since he was 12. He has been teaching various levels of Physics at Brighton High School for all 21 years in education and currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Physics 1 and AP Physics 2. He works to create a friendly and welcoming environment in his classroom to help all students feel confident and motivated to succeed. Mr. Eck tries hard to support all student learning styles and incorporates students' interests into the class as much as possible. He has coached Football, Ice Hockey and Lacrosse at Brighton and has served multiple times as class advisor and on numerous committees. Currently, he is the advisor for Brighton's Habitat for Humanity club. Mr. Eck enjoys spending time with family and friends as well as building and fixing things. If he doesn't know how to do or fix something, he will learn how. As a lifelong learner, Mr. Eck hopes to gain knowledge from fellow Master Teachers as well as share his experiences in hopes that they may help others.
Andrew (Drew) Eckert earned his BA in Biology Education (7-12) at Roberts Wesleyan College and his MSEd at SUNY College at Brockport. Mr. Eckert has been teaching in the Fairport Central School District at the Minerva DeLand School since 2001. He has taught Regents and Honors Living Environment, Regents Earth Science, and General Science, and currently teaches Regents and Honors Living Environment, implementing the flipped classroom and the use of case studies in his teaching. During the 2012/2013 school year, Mr. Eckert was given the Crystal Apple Award by his peers. He has been the Advisor for the Science Club at Minerva DeLand for 15 years and formerly taught summer school and coached modified track and field. He has also worked as an adjunct professor teaching at Finger Lakes Community College, teaching General Biology and Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology courses among others. Outside of school, Mr. Eckert loves to travel with his family. His two children keep him busy with sports and recreation. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, he is a member of the Biology Professional Learning Team, and has participated in workshops on sports-related concussions, teaching and leading peers, and the "Biology of Cancer" mini-course.
Alexandra Edwards earned her B.A. in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and M.S. in Inclusive Adolescent Education from Nazareth College. She has been a classroom for ten years, mostly at Merton Williams Middle School. Mrs. Edwards currently teaches 7th grade math and 8th grade pre-algebra to struggling students. Since 2013, she has been with the Rochester Math Teacher Circle leadership team, where she has been a firm believer in inquiry-based learning and the Connected Math program. Over the past two years, she has worked with the RocInquiry group on developing inquiry-based tasks and sharing them with Rochester area teachers through monthly meetings. Her other professional focus is developing a growth mindset in her students. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Edwards advises the Coding Club, serves on the Building Leadership Team, and is a Building Officer for the union. During her free time, she enjoys traveling with her family, learning new languages, and cooking. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Edwards is looking forward to expanding her STEM content knowledge and collaborating with colleagues to improve her instructional practice.
Melissa Edwards earned her BA in Mathematics from St. John Fisher College and MS in Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom since 2005, Ms. Edwards currently teaches Advanced Placement Calculus AB, Gemini Pre-Calculus Honors, and Algebra 2 Regents at Wayne Central School District. Prior to Wayne, she taught AIS, 7th and 8th grade Math at Phelps-Clifton Springs Middle School. Ms. Edwards focuses on creating a student-centered classroom using a self-paced flip model so students can work at their own pace in order to master their math skills. In class, she utilizes numerous technology-inspired learning activities and different hands-on activities. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ms. Edwards serves as the co-advisor for Wayne's Math Team, is the Instructional Leader for 9-12 Mathematics Department, and referees girls volleyball games. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Edwards looks forward to collaborating with others who are passionate about teaching to share and learn ways to improve practice in her own classroom.
Terry Elmer earned his BS in Chemistry from SUNY Oswego and MS in Chemistry from SUNY Buffalo. In the classroom for 18 years, he teaches Regents Chemistry, General Chemistry, Advanced Placement Chemistry, and Advanced 7th Grade Physical Science at Red Creek Central School. Mr. Elmer uses inquiry-based classroom activities, such as Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL), hands-on activities, and demonstrations to enhance and strengthen students' content knowledge. He is a coach for Red Creek's Science Olympiad and Envirothon teams, is actively involved in the Science Department's professional learning community, and the school's Science Honor Society. Mr. Elmer also serves as a Selection Committee Member for the Red Creek chapter of the National Honor Society. He is a member of the American Association of Chemistry Teachers, and an active member of Science Teachers Association of New York State. When at home, Mr. Elmer enjoys gardening and bowling whenever he can. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, he is a member of the Chemistry Professional Learning Team and has participated in workshops on biomathematics and scientific argumentation.
Mindy Emmerson earned her BS in Chemistry Education from SUNY Geneseo and her MS in Education from Nazareth College. Mrs. Emmerson has been teaching General, Regents, Honors and AP Chemistry for 20 years. She currently teaches AP Chemistry and co-teaches General Chemistry, advises the STEM club, the Chemistry Olympiad Club and the PCSD Science Club at Pittsford Mendon High School. Mrs. Emmerson also serves as a New Teacher Mentor at Pittsford and an Assistant Building Representative for the Pittsford District Teachers Union. Mrs. Emmerson has also participated in grant-based workshops including Clean Energy: Electricity Generation Using Fuel Cells at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Polymers in the Chemistry Classroom at Syracuse University, and a Research Experience for Teachers at the University of Rochester. Exploring the connections between nature, art and science is a particular passion of Mrs. Emmerson and she spends her free time painting and metalsmithing and spending time with her family. As a NSY Master Teacher, Mrs. Emmerson is looking forward to participating in upcoming mini courses on Nanoscience, Blackholes and Ecotoxicity and collaborating with other STEM teachers on the best practices concerning Coaching and Mentoring New and Pre-service Teachers.
Robert Enck earned his BA in Physics and MS in Physics Education from SUNY Brockport, and EdD in Executive Leadership from Saint John Fisher College. His dissertation research investigated the association between constructivist teaching strategies used in the classroom and eighth grade student achievement as recorded in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study 2007. Mr. Enck, an educator for 25 years, teaches Advanced Placement Physics at Webster Schroeder High School. At Schroeder High School he has also served as a lead science teacher, mentor, and professional development presenter. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Enck enjoys being an academic coach for the competitive Science Olympiad and Masterminds teams. His current professional interests include the use of Modeling Physics, a type of inquiry learning to engage students in learning and understanding physics, and the use of data analysis to monitor and improve student learning. Mr. Enck received excellence in teaching awards from both the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Erin Everson earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and Master of Science in Teaching Education from St. John Fisher College. In the classroom since 2005, she teaches Algebra 2 and Statistics, and has also taught Algebra 1, Math 7 and Math 8 at Midlakes in Clifton Springs. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Everson is the high school math department chairperson, a member of the technology committee and a member of the first cohort of the district's Personalized Learning pilot group. She also serves as the assistant advisor to National Honor Society and the Junior class, and is the faculty advisor to Interact Club. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Everson enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and two sons. Mrs. Everson is extremely excited to be to a part of the NYS Master Teacher program to attend the professional development opportunities and to collaborate with other teachers.
Alicia Falkey-Ignacio earned her BS in Sociology and her MS in Childhood and Special Education from St. John Fisher College. Mrs.Falkey-Ignacio has been teaching Childhood Education since 2013. During those ten years, she has taught at the Geneva City School District and since 2016, has worked as a 2nd/3rd grade multiage 6:1:1 Special Education teacher for Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES at the Red Jacket Education Center. Outside of the classroom she acts as a teacher mentor, is on the Principals Advisory Committee and is a Technology Committee member. Outside of school, Mrs.Falkey-Ignacio enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, going to her family cabin in the Adirondacks, thrifting and exercising. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to have the opportunity to learn and share knowledge within a growing network of other Master Teachers across the state. She looks forward to incorporating new ideas into her classroom to enrich her students' educational experiences and continuing to enhance their love for learning.
Matthew Fink earned his BA in Sociology from SUNY Buffalo and his MS in both Special Education and Elementary Education from Nazareth College of Rochester. Mr. Fink has been working in the Spencerport School District for 25 years where he currently teaches fifth grade. He has acted both as his building's science teacher leader and NYSUT union representative. Mr. Fink currently serves on the Board of Education for the West Irondequoit School District and is an active member of the West Irondequoit Foundation. Prior to becoming a teacher, Mr. Fink honorably served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. In his free time Mr. Fink enjoys attending his daughters' volleyball and lacrosse games as well as boating with his family.
Thomas Fisher earned his B.A. in Mathematics with Adolescent Certification from SUNY Geneseo and M.S. in Adolescence Mathematics from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Fisher has a passion for math, teaching, and coding which he developed in college. He has been teaching for 6 years; he taught Pre-Algebra and Algebra I at Newark Middle School and is currently teaching Pre-Algebra, and Algebra I at Merton Williams Middle School. Mr. Fisher is an advocate for growth mindset and learning mathematics through inquiry-based problem-solving tasks. At Merton Williams, Mr. Fisher advised the Coding Club and serves on the Budget and School Improvement Team committees. He is also a member of the Math Circles of Inquiry group of teachers who work to create inquiry-based teaching materials for mathematics. Outside of school, he likes to spend time with family, work on coding projects, and watch the Buffalo Bills. Mr. Fisher created an awesome website, FishMath.com, that he uses to generate practice problems and provide his students with instructional videos. As a new NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to collaborating with his peers in STEM to find more ways to connect mathematics with other content areas.
Nolan Flores earned his BS in Biology and Adolescent Education, and MS in Biology Education from SUNY College at Brockport. In the classroom for eight years, he teaches Advanced Placement Biology, Regents Living Environment, Environmental Science, and Astronomy at Wayne Central High School in Ontario. Mr. Flores believes in fostering a student-centered classroom through active, hands-on, inquiry-based learning where his students collect, analyze and share evidence to build a classroom of knowledge. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Flores serves as the Head Coach for the Varsity Golf and MasterMinds teams. His other professional interests include representing the high school as Contract Negotiator for the Wayne Teachers Association, and he is a member of the National Science Teachers Association. When he's not in the classroom, you will find Mr. Flores chaperoning dances and field trips, or keeping the score for the Wayne wrestling teams. Outside of school, Mr. Flores is an avid golfer and enjoys traveling around the world. Mr. Flores is excited and honored to continue his professional journey as a NYS Master Teacher, and looks forward to the collaborative work with the professional learning teams and the development of STEM initiatives at the secondary level.
Carrie Ford earned her BA in Biology from SUNY Geneseo where she was a member of the TriBeta National Biological Honor Society. While at Geneseo, she earned her certification for General Science, Biology and for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Ms. Ford received her MA in Math, Science and Technology from St. John Fisher College. In the classroom for 21 years, Ms. Ford currently teaches Integrated Seventh Grade Science, and has experience teaching Eight Grade Science, Living Environment, and Math Enrichment. She is a two-time grant recipient of the District Technology Grant and the Greece Educational Foundation Grant. She has served on the District Digital Innovation Team, the NGSS Pilot Review committee, and as Team Leader, District Lead Teacher, Rochester Museum and Science Center Ambassador and District Curriculum writer. Outside of classroom, Ms. Ford tutors students who are English Language Learners in science. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling and camping. As a Master Teacher, she is looking forward to enriching her knowledge of STEM content and improving her teaching craft while collaborating with peers who are committed to making STEM relevant to all students.
Aaron Forgnone earned his BS in Environmental and Forest Biology at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and MSEd in Technology Education from Buffalo State College. Dual certified in Technology Education and Biology, Mr. Forgnone has enjoyed 13 years in the classroom. He currently teaches Principles of Engineering, Design and Drawing for Production, Wood Working, and Middle School Technology Education in the Alexander Central Schools. Mr. Forgnone is active outside the classroom as well, serving on the Curriculum Council Committee, School Safety Team, and as a Tech Wars event coordinator. He also serves as the Science Department Chair and as adjunct faculty member at Genesee Community College. Mr. Forgnone is also honored to serve on a committee at Alexander Schools that developed and built the first certified outdoor classroom in Western New York. When not in the classroom, he is an avid woodworker and amateur pomologist, interested in local apple varieties. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Forgnone is looking forward to participating in professional development and collaborating with other STEM teachers.
Patrick Freivald earned his BS in Physics with a minor in Linguistics/American Sign Language from the University of Rochester, and MS in Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), graduating Summa Cum Laude as the first person in the world certified in both Deaf Education and Physics. Mr. Freivald taught physics as an Adjunct at RIT, and science and mathematics at the California School for the Deaf. Starting in 2002, he teaches physics, robotics, and physical science at Naples Central School. He also taught American Sign Language at Naples and at Genesee Community College. Outside the classroom, Mr. Freivald has coached the Naples FIRST Robotics Team, served on the Honeoye Central School Board of Education (two as VP), and chairs his union's Negotiating and Grievance committees. He has also served as VP and President of the Ontario-Finger Lakes Beekeepers Association and runs a business specializing in hot pepper infused honey. An author of nine novels and dozens of short stories, he has been nominated for the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement four times. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Freivald looks forward to developing and participating in high quality professional development for the betterment of physics teaching, especially around relevant, realistic laboratory experiences for students.
Randy French earned his AS in Forestry from Paul Smith's College, BA in Art and Biology from SUNY Geneseo, and MA in Liberal Arts from Empire State College. A veteran teacher with 37 years experience in the classroom, he teaches middle and high school science at Geneseo Central. Because Mr. French believes that experience is invaluable to learning, his students have completed field research in water quality and wildlife habitat. He emphasizes that students are global citizens and he strives to connect his classes with educators globally by organizing various student excursions including, most recently, a trip to study Ecology and Geology in Yellowstone National Park. Mr. French's professional interests focus on hands-on learning and strategies for developing student curiosity. As Earthwise club advisor, he has introduced students to numerous outdoor activities while showing students the importance of preserving our wild lands. Mr. French was awarded the Environmental Award from the Geneseo Science Club in recognition of his many projects, such as scrap recycling projects, and student-created research into funding a community water tank in Uganda and bed nets to prevent malaria in Tanzania.
Dan Fullerton earned his BS and MS degrees in microelectronic engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and a secondary teaching certificate in physics from Drexel University. In the classroom for 11 years, he teaches physics at Irondequoit High School. Mr. Fullerton is a strong advocate for student-directed active learning and involves his students in hands-on, technology-infused applications of science, such as the design and creation of catapult launches and speakers. Mr. Fullerton's professional interests focus on the flipped classroom implementation model, semiconductor education in high school, and promoting STEM education and careers throughout the community. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Fullerton serves as an advisor for the National Honor Society, and is a member of the Industrial Affiliate Advisory Board to RIT's Department of Microelectronic Engineering, of the American Association of Physics Teachers, and of the Science Teachers Association of New York State. Mr. Fullerton has published various books for Regents and Honors Physics courses. His current projects include the expansion of a physics website with supporting books and videos, and the creation of an online AP Physics courses.
Jayme Futter earned her BS in Childhood Education and her MS in Literacy from SUNY Geneseo. Mrs. Futter is a National Board Certified Teacher as an early childhood generalist, a certification she earned in 2019. She began her teaching career as a literacy specialist in East Irondequoit and moved to her classroom teaching career at Dudley Elementary School in Fairport in 2013. She currently teaches second grade. Mrs. Futter has always had a passion for mathematics, concentrating in mathematics during her time in Geneseo. Her enthusiasm for math continues in the classroom as she helps to build foundational math fluency and math skills for her second graders. Mrs. Futter has spent the last two years working with and leading teachers in her district through a book study on the Writing Revolution to help teachers learn more about how to teach writing, beginning at kindergarten. She has been a new teacher mentor for several years. Mrs. Futter partners with SUNY Geneseo to host a student teacher each year as a way to give back to the program that helped her fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher. Mrs. Futter has a passion for running and is planning to run the four Rochester half marathons as part of the Rochester Four Seasons Challenge in 2024. As a Master Teacher, Mrs. Futter is looking forward to learning how to bring more STEM content into her primary aged classroom and collaborating with other teachers across the region.
Mr. Geary earned his BA in Biology and an MS in Education from Roberts Wesleyan University. He participated in the Noyce Master Teacher fellowship at the University of Rochester and earned an advanced certificate in Digitally-Rich Teaching. He began teaching science for the Rochester City School District in 2002, initially in middle school science and then transitioning to high school. Currently, Mr. Geary is teaching Living Environment and AP Biology at the School of the Arts. He serves on the curriculum selection committee and started pursuing a new passion for drones after receiving a grant to start a drone soccer club. Over the summer he received the ‘(Part 107) Remote Pilot’ Certificate and now teaches an extracurricular drone pilot class for RCSD students. Outside of school, Mr. Geary enjoys the outdoors by camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. He loves playing music and building cigar box guitars and ukuleles. Mr. Geary looks forward to the comradery that will come from the MTP and science content that he knows will challenge him both personally and professionally.
Rebecca Geary earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Binghamton, MS in Molecular Cancer Biology from the University of Chicago, and her MS in Teaching & Curriculum in Science Education from the University of Rochester. She was named a Bernice Goldblatt Fellow upon entering the University of Chicago for her academic achievements as an undergraduate, and she was awarded a National Science Foundation Robert Noyce Scholarship to pursue her teaching degree for her interests in social justice. Prior to becoming a teacher, she managed a neuroscience research laboratory doing work in the field of spinal cord regeneration and repair at the University of Rochester. Ms. Geary has been teaching science for six years; she taught Regents Chemistry and Advanced Placement Biology for four years at Eastridge High School and is currently teaching Chemistry at Brighton High School. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has served on several committees. Outside of teaching, Ms. Geary enjoys hiking, skiing, and traveling with her family. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, she is a member of the Living Environment Professional Learning Team, and has participated in a variety of workshops including Teaching and Leading your Peers, Alternative Energy Systems, and Sports-Related Concussions, and the Biology of Cancer mini-course.
Reggie Gerig earned his BS in Biology in Secondary Education from Taylor University and his MS in Science Education from SUNY Brockport. Beginning his teaching career in Ft. Wayne, IN, then moving to Hilton Central School District, Mr. Gerig has been in the classroom for 17 years. Currently, he teaches Middle School General Science and Regents Living Environment at Merton Williams Middle School, an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme School. Mr. Gerig serves in a variety of capacities at Merton Williams: He is a member of the Instructional Support Team and the School Improvement Team, a class trip chaperone, and a coach for the boys' basketball program. Mr. Gerig spends his free time with his wife and three children, watching his favorite sports teams, and working outside. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, he has attended a variety of workshops this semester including Beekeeping, Scientific Argumentation and the Implications for Writing Case Studies, Sports-Related Concussions, and Teaching and Leading your Peers, and participated in the Biology of Cancer mini-course. Mr Gerig looks forward to broadening his STEM content knowledge across a variety of subjects.
Amy Gilbert earned her B.S. in Biology from SUNY Geneseo and M.S.Ed. in Biology with Special Education Specialization from Elmira College. Of 18 years teaching, 15 have been spent at East Irondequoit Middle School where she currently teaches 7th grade science. Mrs. Gilbert has served as Science Curriculum Leader, Team Leader, lead curriculum writer, and has been involved with committees such as the AVID Site Base Team and the Building Leadership Team. For several years, her students participated in the Hobart and William Smith Colleges Finger Lakes Institute Science Fair with great success. She is currently a member and has presented at the National Science Teachers of America and the Science Teachers' Association of NYS. Mrs. Gilbert is currently beginning a Monarch Conservation club at the middle school with the hopes of helping students build Monarch Way Stations. She has coached Odyssey of the Mind for four years in the Town of Irondequoit. Recently, raising Monarchs became a family endeavor, but gardening and reading are her favorite activities. Mrs. Gilbert is looking forward to learning how to improve her STEM pedagogy from peers of diverse backgrounds through the Master Teacher Program.
Rachel Gillotte earned her B.S. in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo, M.S.Ed. from SUNY Brockport, and National Board Certification in Adolescence and Young Adulthood Mathematics. In the classroom for 14 years, Mrs. Gillotte teaches Geometry and AP Statistics at Geneva High School. Mrs. Gillotte uses a flipped-classroom approach to best meet students' needs as well as maximizing their learning and their time for collaboration with peers. She is a member of Pre-K–12 Math vertical alignment team, Learning Focused Coach for her district's Instructional Framework, and Ontario County Chair of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State. She is also a College Board AP Reader. Outside of school Mrs. Gillotte enjoys baking and spending time with her family at their cabin in the Adirondacks. She is honored to have the opportunity to be part of the NYS Master Teacher Program as she can't wait for the opportunity to collaborate with other master teachers.
Monica Giacoman earned her BS in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Education from Niagara University, and MSEd in Mathematics from SUNY at Geneseo. In the classroom for 21 years, Mrs. Giacoman teaches Advanced Placement Statistics, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus at Webster Schroeder High School.
Chelsea Gibbs earned her BS in Adolescent Education-Mathematics from SUNY Cortland and MS in Literacy Education B-12 from the College at Brockport. Right out of her undergraduate program, she started her dream job as a math teacher at Spencerport High School in 2016. Currently, Mrs. Gibbs teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry Honors and has previously taught regents level Geometry as well as a modified Geometry X course. In addition to her role as a teacher, Mrs. Gibbs is extremely involved within her school community. She is the Girls JV Soccer Coach, Class of 2024 Advisor (previously Class of 2020 Advisor), Ski Club Advisor, and a voted member of her Building Planning Team. Outside of school, Mrs. Gibbs enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and fur-babies. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to her continued journey as a lifelong learner (especially in the STEM classroom), collaborating with colleagues, and providing her students with meaningful educational experiences.
Melissa Gourlay earned her BA in Biology from Buffalo State College and an MS in Science Education from Canisius College. As an undergraduate, she was given the opportunity to study tropical biology in Costa Rica which fueled her desire to continue to travel and explore natural phenomena. Ms. Gourlay currently teaches Regents and General Chemistry courses and also serves as the Science Coordinator for the district's Twilight program. Having been at Greece Odyssey Academy for 18 years, she also taught Regents Living Environment and a variety of science electives. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Gourlay serves as the Science Department Chair for the School Improvement Team and a leader for the district's Vertical Alignment Team in preparation for the state's Next Generation Science Standards. She has previously served on the Guardians of Equity Committee, attended International Baccalaureate Program training in Niagara Falls, served on the science curriculum writing committee, was chosen by students for the Natural Helpers retreat, and was an advisor for numerous student-run clubs. Outside of school, Ms. Gourlay enjoys vacationing with her family in the Adirondack Region. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited about professional development opportunities that focus on equitable instruction in the classroom using natural phenomena and a 3D learning approach. She is also looking forward to collaborating with colleagues on teaching strategies and best practices.
Erica Green earned her BS in Education at SUNY Fredonia with a minor in Spanish and her Master's in TESOL with a Bilingual extension from Nazareth College. Mrs. Green began her teaching career in North Carolina as a classroom teacher, Spanish teacher, and English teacher in a dual language school. She has been teaching in the Greece Central School District for the past 15 years, as a dual language teacher and more recently as an English as a New Language teacher at Lakeshore Elementary. She started her 20th year of teaching this fall, working with students in third, fourth and fifth grade across all subject areas, and truly loves working with English Language Learners. One of her favorite things about teaching is watching students have ‘aha' moments of excitement when they learn something new. She enjoys the mathematical learning and problem solving skills that her students are able to demonstrate through hands-on exploration and experimentation, such as coding the Sphero robots, creating projects with the 3D printer and working in the school garden at her school. Recently, she worked with a 5th grade class on a Maple syrup project, gathering data from trees on campus. She helped students measure their circumference, as well as tracking the sap production over time. Outside of the classroom, she is a Girl Scout leader for both of her daughters' troops, has been a Girls on the Run Coach for several seasons, and volunteers at her church in the children's ministry. When she is not teaching, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and friends.
Amanda Guererri earned her BA in Mathematics/Special Education 7-12 and MS in Literacy Birth-12 from Keuka College. Since graduating, she has applied her mathematical knowledge within the classroom at the high school and college level, teaching as an Adjunct Mathematics Professor at Keuka College for three years, and pursuing a Statement of Continued Eligibility certificates in both Special Class English Language Arts and Biology. As a teacher in her 10th year, Mrs. Guererri currently teaches a Special Class Algebra 1A and 1B, and co-teaches Inclusive sections of Algebra 1A and Mathematics 7. Mrs. Guererri serves as the Chairperson for the Member Engagement and Scholarship Committees, and the Social Committee, chaperoning sporting events and dances for her district. She has often derived inspiration for Mathematics – specifically for the language of Mathematics – from well-known Physicist Albert Einstein who stated, “Pure Mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Guererri is looking forward to participating in Mathematics-related mini-courses, joining Mathematics-related Professional Learning Teams, and having the opportunity to collaborate, learn with/from other Mathematically like-minded individuals. More importantly, she is excited to disseminate information learned through the NYS Master Teacher Program with her home district, students and departments.
Joan Hamer earned her BS in Forest Biology from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and Master of Arts in Teaching from SUNY Binghamton. In the classroom for 28 years, she teaches Advanced Placement Biology, Regents Chemistry and Biotech/Forensics at Honeoye Falls Lima High School. Mrs. Hamer is a strong advocate for hands-on, inquiry-based learning and the Socratic Method. She supports her students using their prior knowledge to answer questions, so the students see themselves as having an active role in advancing their content knowledge. Mrs. Hamer's professional interests focus on cooperative learning groups, design-your-own-lab activities, curriculum development, and working with student teachers. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she serves as advisor to the Gay-Straight Alliance, and is a member of the scheduling and safety committees for her school. She is the Central Western Subject Area Representative for Applied Sciences and a Conference Assistant for STANYS, the Science Teachers Association of NYS. She was adjunct professor for Genesee Community College teaching Human Biology and Cell Biology. Mrs. Hamer was honored with 2015 National Association of Biology Teachers, Teacher of the Year Award and the Educational Testing Service's (ETS) Recognition of Excellence Award for exceptional individual performance on a content Praxis II exam. She continues to be involved in Master Teacher Professional Learning Teams: Pre-Service PLT, Advanced Placement Biology PLT, and the Adventure PLT. She is now part of the Academy of Master Teachers.
Amy Harter earned her BA in Biology from SUNY Geneseo and her MS in Inclusive Education from Nazareth College. Mrs. Harter has been in the classroom since 2005 and is currently teaching Regents Living Environment at Marcus Whitman (Gorham-Middlesex) High School. Prior to teaching Living Environment at Marcus Whitman she taught 7th and 8th grade science, Living Environment and Environmental Science in the Rochester City School District for 10 years and was a Special Education Teacher in the Marcus Whitman (Gorham-Middlesex) High School for 5 years. Mrs. Harter is an advisor for the Class of 2026, was a class advisor for the Class of 2022 and participated in the Educator’s for Tomorrow program at Marcus Whitman. Outside of school, She enjoys spending time with her family, working on her family farm, teaching skiing and volunteering with her local fire department. Through the Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Harter hopes to collaborate with colleagues to enhance the learning experience for all students she encounters.
William Heinsler earned his BS and MS degrees in Math/ Science/Technology Education from St. John Fisher College. He has been teaching secondary math since 2010 and currently teaches 8th grade Math, Accelerated Algebra, and 2 sections of AIS at Wayne Central Middle School. In his 11 years of teaching, Mr. Heinsler has taught almost every math class from 6th grade Math AIS to AP Calculus, and also worked as an adjunct professor for 12 semesters at St. John Fisher College. Outside of teaching, Mr. Heinsler is the advisor for both 7th and 8th grade classes, the Computer Science Club, and the Academic Challenge Bowl team at Wayne Central. He serves as the Math 7-8 Department Chair and as a member of the middle school's Building Planning Team. Mr. Heinsler believes that making strong connections with his students helps build their confidence and empowers them to achieve all that they are capable of. Outside of school, Mr. Heinsler loves spending time hiking, biking, and making memories with his wife and their two children. Over the past two years, he has also become an avid runner and loves playing sports along with rooting for the New York Mets and Buffalo Bills. As a Master Teacher, Mr. Heinsler looks forward to working with other passionate master teachers and improving his own teaching practice.
Jean Hensel earned her BS in Agricultural Economics from Cornell University, and her MS in Curriculum and Instruction from New Mexico State University. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Hensel worked in technical sales. She has taught for 25 years, with experience teaching: math at Dona Ana Branch Community College and Monroe Community College, and science and math at Fairport Central School District. She is currently teaching 8th grade science and Earth Science at Martha Brown Middle School in Fairport. Jean loves to provide activities where students are actively engaged in learning the content knowledge, while also expanding their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. She has achieved the National Board Certification for Teachers. Mrs. Hensel serves in a variety of capacities at Martha Brown. She is the Science Lead Teacher, member of the Facilities Committee, club advisor for Academic Challenge Bowl and Science Bowl. Jean is an avid hiker, camper, and traveler. She loves exploring the world around her with her children, grandchildren, and friends. Mrs. Hensel is excited to become a member of the NYS Master Teacher Program to continue enriching her STEM content knowledge and foster the love of science and math in her classroom.
Donna Himmelberg earned AB degrees in biology and psychology from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA and her MEd in Curriculum Instruction in Science Education from the University of Missouri. Mrs. Himmelberg taught in suburban and rural schools in Missouri and NYS before returning to her alma mater, Fairport High School (FHS). Now in her 16th year of teaching, she has helped FHS establish a partnership with NASA in which students conduct authentic research to fly aboard a microgravity flight. Mrs. Himmelberg has served as a National Honor Society Advisor and been a member of Fairport's Science Steering Committee. Last spring, she also taught a science teacher preparation course at Nazareth College of Rochester. Her teaching has been recognized with awards from the American Nuclear Society, Dow STEM the Gap Teacher Challenge, and the Science Teachers Association of NYS. Mrs. Himmelberg is excited to be part of the NYS Master Teacher Program, and is looking forward to deepening her commitment to mentoring new teachers and to expanding her content and pedagogical knowledge to add new topics to her teaching repertoire such as, 3D printing and statistics.
Jennifer Howell earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Science Education from Nazareth College. Mrs. Howell began teaching in 1997 at Hilton High School and was inspired to become a teacher after mentoring SUNY Geneseo students in a General Biology Lab. She currently teaches Living Environment and Standard Level International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology. At school, Mrs. Howell founded Hilton's Breakfast with a Scientist Program and has served as the director for 11 years, is a committee member of the Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports Program, and is an advisor for the Class of 2020. She is involved in Regents Examination development in Albany, and participates each year in IB Biology Roundtable Conferences. As a STEM teacher, Mrs. Howell is passionate about Ecology and empowers her students to help solve global biological issues such as climate change. She loves spending time with family and attending her two daughters' cheerleading competitions and son's junior hockey games. Her oldest son is a student at SUNY Geneseo. Mrs. Howell is excited to be part of the NYS Master Teacher Program, and looks forward to the opportunities she will have to further hone her teaching skills by working with fellow Master Teachers who share her love for teaching biology.
Ryan Humphrey earned his BS in Biology Education with a minor in Chemistry from Daemen College and MS in Biology Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom since 2007, Mr. Humphrey started his teaching career at Mount Morris CSD and currently, teaches AP Biology, Honors Living Environment and Anatomy & Sports Physiology to high school students at Livonia Middle-High School. He serves as the Middle School/High School STEM Leader where he assists colleagues and administration with STEM curriculum development, developed a MS/HS curriculum for STEM Foundations of Science course that utilizes Engineering Design and is aligned to NGSS. Mr. Humphrey has served on the Professional Development committee, has been a mentor for new teachers, and is also the JV Boys Soccer Coach at Livonia. Outside of the school district, Mr. Humphrey enjoys spending time with his wife & two children, his yellow lab, coaching, playing golf, hunting, and is a proud supporter of the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees. Having influential High School Science teachers and the love of the outdoors are a few of the many reasons Mr. Humphrey chose a career path in Biology Education. As NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to learning and sharing from other master teachers and increasing his knowledge with the use of technology and new curriculum development.
Marcel Jennette earned his BS in Secondary Education Physics and MS in Student Affairs Counseling from SUNY Plattsburgh. Prior to teaching, Mr. Jennette worked at the University of New England as the Coordinator of Campus Life in Portland, Maine. In the classroom since 2003, Mr. Jennette is currently teaching "Project Lead the Way" technology courses including: Design and Drawing for Production, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Digital Electronics, and Engineering Design and Development. Mr. Jennette also serves as the District Lead Teacher for the Technology Department and is a Co-Advisor for the Technology Club. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Jennette is looking forward to collaborating with fellow master teachers and helping out those new to the profession.
Dan Johnson earned his B.S. in Industrial Arts/Technology Education from SUNY Oswego and M.A. in Professional Studies from SUNY Brockport. He has been a Technology Instructor for 36 years. For the last 26 years, he has taught Design and Drawing for Production, Transportation Systems, and Manufacturing Systems in the Fairport Central School District. Previously, Mr. Johnson taught in the Dundee Central School District, Webster Central School District, and Rochester City Schools. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor for the Monroe County Community College since 2009. Mr. Johnson has been the Lead Advisor for the Fairport Robotics Team, created the first Coding Club at the Minerva Deland School in Fairport, and also played a significant role in developing and teaching the first All-Girls Technology Class at Fairport High School. He has served as Freshman Class Advisor, Yearbook Advisor, Ski Club Advisor, a High School Football Coach, Advisor for the Small Gas Engines and Woodworking Clubs, and teaches Driver's Education. During his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two grown daughters, boating, skiing, and playing volleyball. He is looking forward to the opportunity to participate in workshops and collaborate with fellow Master Teachers.
Siobhan Julian earned her BS in Chemistry and Biology from SUNY Geneseo, and Master of Education from SUNY College at Brockport . In the classroom for seven years, Ms. Siobhan teaches Advanced Placement Chemistry and Regents Chemistry at Webster Schroeder High School.
Maryalice Kaminski earned her BS in Earth Science from SUNY Brockport as the Department Scholar, and MS in Geosciences from Mississippi State University. During the summers of her college years, Mrs. Kaminski worked at Ward's Natural Science in the Geology Department, where her interest for minerals, gems and fossils flourished. She has been teaching Earth Science for seven years at Fairport's Minerva DeLand 9th grade building. The past two years have included teaching with a Special Education teacher in a co-teacher setting. In the classroom, Mrs. Kaminski uses a high level of enthusiasm and deliberate questioning techniques to keep all students engaged in learning. She is also an Advisor to the Yearbook Club, and enjoys chaperoning the Freshman Dance and the school trip to New York City. She manages the Minerva Science Department Twitter page, which informs students and parents of important dates and relevant and exciting science news. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Kaminski is looking forward to collaborating with teachers around the region in order to further her professional growth.
Michael Kaseman earned his BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Math, Science, & Technology Education from St. John Fisher College. Mr. Kaseman has been teaching at the secondary level in Fairport Central School district since 2003. Currently, he teaches Algebra I and Geometry Honors at Minerva Deland. He was inspired to become a Mathematics teacher by his own teachers whom he respected and now, he hosts student teachers and student observers. Outside the classroom, Mr. Kaseman has been part of Fairport Educator's Association Scholarship Committee, chaperoned class trips, dances, and has been an advisor to the Ultimate Frisbee Club, PC Building Club, and Coding Club. He has also worked on the "Make It Stick" mobile app workshop through SUNY Brockport. In addition, Mr. Kaseman has worked for Pack Paddle & Ski and Earth Works Institute leading day hikes and outdoor activities in the greater Rochester area. Within the Fairport community, he has coached his son in little league, and CYO basketball. He also coached the junior varsity rugby team for the Fairport Youth Rugby club for nine years. Mr. Kaseman continues to serve the Fairport Youth Rugby Club as a board member, secretary, and flag rugby coach. Mr. Kaseman enjoys spending time with his wife and three children while pursuing his love of the outdoors by tackling the Adirondack 46ers and Colorado 14ers. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Kaseman is looking forward to broadening his STEM knowledge and collaborating with fellow Master Teachers.
Eric Kazukiewicz earned his BS and MS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego and "Project Lead the Way Gateway to Technology Certification." In the classroom for 18 years, "Mr. K" teaches 8th Grade Technology at Dake Junior High School in West Irondequoit. He has served as a Department Leader for 15 years, and member of the Ad Hoc Committee, which meets to review and revise curricula, the Irondequoit High School Solar Car Team, and currently advises The Dake Morning Show, Snowsports Club, Torque Club, and Robotics Club. Outside the classroom Mr. K is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys archery and fishing. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to learning from, and with, the other Master Teachers across NYS.
Monica Kelley earned her BS in Cellular and Organismal Biology and BS in Secondary Education Biology from Lock Haven University, and her MEd in Educational Leadership from Edinboro University. Ms. Kelley began teaching in 2011, and was inspired to work in the teaching field by the positive experiences she had with her own teachers and her desire to help others reach their goals. She has been teaching at Geneva High School (GHS) since 2011, and has served as the GHS 5K Club Advisor for five years. Ms. Kelley currently teaches Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences and Regents Living Environment, and is co-facilitating a district-wide PreK-12 Science Vertical Alignment. She collaborates with local science professionals to connect students to their community and provide real-world applications to the lessons being learned in the classroom. She is passionate about animals and the environment, and interested in how future advancements in STEM could create more cost-effective and environmentally friendly sources of energy and medical innovations. Ms. Kelley enjoys running, skiing, cooking, and spending time with her family. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to participating in diverse professional development opportunities and creating new connections with other STEM teachers in the area.
Marissa Kenrick earned her BA in Mathematics, Adolescent and Inclusive Education from St. John Fisher University and her MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY Brockport. Mrs. Kenrick has been an educator for seven years, the past three at Brighton High School where she currently teaches Pre-Calculus and Algebra 2 Honors. She works to create a collaborative environment in her classroom where students investigate key ideas. Mrs. Kenrick is an advisor for the Future Teacher Club, and member of the Professional Learning Team, the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics, and the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State. She is an adjunct professor at St. John Fisher University teaching Mathematics for Elementary Educators, Differentiation, Instruction, Assessment: Math for Adolescent Education majors, and Introduction to Data Science. Outside of teaching, Mrs. Kenrick enjoys hiking with her husband and puggle (Penny) and reading. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Kenrick is looking forward to participating in professional development opportunities and collaborating with her peers.
Mary Keymel earned her BS in biology from Houghton College, and MSEd from SUNY Geneseo. Before starting her 14-year teaching career of Advance Placement Biology, Living Environment, and Accelerated College Enrollment Biology at Avon Central School, Mrs. Keymel served as an Interim Instructor of Biology at Houghton College. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she serves on the School Improvement Team, is a class advisor, a new teacher mentor, and a member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS. When she is not seeking out new professional development opportunities to bring back to her classroom, she enjoys baking and decorating cakes. As a NYS Master teacher, Mrs. Keymel is looking forward to working with new and pre-service teachers and to participating in the many professional development opportunities offered in her own region and across the state.
Alpa Khandhar earned her BA in Chemistry from University of Pennsylvania and Master of Arts in Teaching from Cornell University as a Mellon Fellow. She started her career in the biotech industry but soon found her true passion in teaching in 1996. Ms. Khandhar is currently teaching Regents and Advanced Placement Chemistry in her 9th year at Brighton High School, her 22nd year of teaching overall. In 2006, she was selected as the Hugh Cragie Teacher of the Year. Her experience also includes teaching General Chemistry, International Baccalaureate Chemistry, Living Environment, and advising the Bollywood Dance Club. Ms. Khandhar is a member of the League of Innovative Teachers, Curriculum Council, Instructional Leaders Team, and the Science Leaders Cohort. For the past four years, she has actively worked with the Rochester Area District Science Leaders to transition Next Generation Science Standards into local schools. She is passionate about helping all students identify as scientists and understand why science matters through engaging in authentic problems and lab experiences. Ms. Khandhar loves cooking for friends and family, reading, yoga, and spending time in nature and visiting National Parks. As a new NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to the opportunities to collaborate, learn, and continue to grow as an educator.
Cara Kingsley earned both her BA in Elementary Education and BS in Psychology from SUNY Geneseo, and MA in Special Education from Roberts Wesleyan College. She has been teaching at York Central School since 2000 and currently teaches 6th grade Science and Social Studies. Mrs. Kingsley is continually inspired to teach because she loves cultivating investigation and problem-solving skills. She spends time organizing and volunteering at events for PTO, assisting local Odyssey of the Mind teams, leading a local 4-H club, and is active with youth basketball and soccer teams. She is greatly involved outside the classroom in Technology Committee, Grade Chair, Instructional Coaching Program, mentoring SUNY student teachers, and leading the Kurt Kingsley memorial scholarship foundation. Mrs. Kingsley strives to use science to make life less mysterious to her students and is currently obsessed with fermentation. She is passionate about modeling the words of wisdom from some of her personal STEM heroes, "I would rather have questions that can't be answered than answers that can't be questioned."-Richard Feynman, "Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don't." -Bill Nye, and "Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!" -Ms. Frizzle. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Kingsley is looking forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers, both regionally and statewide.
Dianna Kirsch earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Geneseo, her MSEd from SUNY Buffalo State College, and National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Science in 2011 and 2020. In the classroom for 20 years, Mrs. Kirsch has taught 8th grade physical science, 7th grade life science and Regents Earth Science at Johanna Perrin Middle School, as well as astronomy and chemistry for the Fairport Alternative Education Program. Mrs. Kirsch is involved in the school community as the science club advisor, participates wholeheartedly in all school spirit days, and with youth programs at her local church which positively impact students and their families. Her professional interests also include mentoring new and pre-service teachers as well as participating in curriculum writing projects. Mrs. Kirsch is a strong advocate for Professional Learning Communities and believes that working collaboratively within a department and across disciplines benefits teachers and students alike. Cross-curricular teaming and an inquiry-based approach are designed to support her classroom activities that promote 21st Century skills and connect to real-world issues. Extracurricular interests include hiking with her family and an avid interest in infectious disease books and podcasts. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Kirsch is very excited about the opportunity to collaborate with fellow educators to better support students and foster a love of science in her classroom. One of her goals is to learn about more opportunities for field trips and local connections to engage students in science found in their community.
Danusia Klestinec earned her BS in Biology from William Smith College and her MS in Secondary Education from Nazareth College of Rochester. Mrs. Klestinec teaches special education in Math and Science and serves as special education department chairperson at Geneva Middle School. An educator for more than 16 years, she has been a special educator at Newark High School and an adjunct professor of biology at Finger Lakes Community College. Mrs. Klestinec has mentored numerous new teachers in her district and hosted several pre-service students. She believes that all levels of students can learn and that teachers need to meet students where they are. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, spending time with her family, and attending her children's sporting events. As a lifelong learner, Mrs. Klestinec looks forward to broadening her knowledge base and forming connections with other educators through her participation in the NYS Master Teacher Program.
Dawn Knapp earned her BA in Mathematics from Colgate University and MSEd in Secondary Mathematics from Binghamton University. After teaching for four years at a high school in rural Kentucky, Mrs. Knapp returned to her alma mater, Victor Senior High School in 2001 and continues to teach there today. She currently teaches students in co-taught Extended Algebra, Math Academic Intervention Services (AIS), and Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate Calculus BC. Regardless of the courses students are taking, Mrs. Knapp strives to help all students feel confident and excited about what they are learning. She also encourages students to see how math connects to other subjects and the world around them. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Knapp is a co-advisor for the Victor Math Team. She also serves as the Math Department Chairperson and is a member of the Dollars for Scholars Selection committee and the district's Special Education Review committee. Outside of school, Mrs. Knapp enjoys spending time hiking and camping with her husband and twin teenage sons. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Knapp looks forward to collaborating with the outstanding educators and is also excited about supporting and encouraging pre-service teachers as they enter a career in education.
Joseph Kopnitsky earned his B.A. in History from Niagara University, B.S. in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport, and M.Ed. from LeMoyne College. Mr. Kopnitsky currently teaches Applied Math, Intermediate Algebra, and AP Calculus at Newark High School. He serves on the Building Plan for Excellence Committee, Safety Committee, coaches modified Cross Country, and formerly coached varsity Indoor Track. Outside of school, he is a Catholic Worker for St. Joe's House of Hospitality in Rochester, and volunteers as an instructor for fly fishing for Trout Unlimited's veteran fishing program, Project Healing Waters. As an avid outdoorsman, he hunts, fly fish, rock climbs, and hikes. As a Master Teacher, he is ecstatic to have professional development that's specific on mathematics instruction with colleagues who teach the same discipline.
Jessica Krueger earned both her BA in Mathematics with Secondary Education Certification and MS in Mathematics and Education at SUNY Geneseo. In the classroom at Livonia High School for nine years, Mrs. Krueger has taught a variety of courses including Math A, Integrated Algebra, Algebra 2/Trigonometry, Computer Programming, Business Math, Honors Pre-Calculus, and Common Core Algebra. Mrs. Krueger is passionate about mathematics, and continuously strives to find new ways to differentiate instruction for students, incorporate technology to enrich the educational experiences of all her students. With her science and math teacher colleagues, she is co-designing a STEM course for students interested in studying plants and foods. The course will be devoted to hands on, experiential learning activities that will revolve around designing, building, and maintaining a community garden at Livonia Central School. With the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Krueger has participated in a number of workshops, including Bayesian Statistics, What Happened to Mathematics between Galileo (1564-1642) and Newton (1642-1727)?, and Global Climate Change, and is a member of two Professional Learning Teams—Vertical Math and Working with Pre/In-Service Teachers.
Keri Krull earned her BS in Mathematics from Sacred Heart University and her MS in Mathematics from Fairfield University. Ms. Krull has been in the classroom for 15 years at the secondary and collegiate level, teaching a variety of courses and levels. Currently, Ms. Krull teaches Geometry and Advanced Placement Calculus at Brockport High School, and serves as a demonstration classroom teacher, opening her classroom to colleagues and administrators, including visitors from outside the district to observe research-based best practices in action. Ms. Krull recently presented a Master Class about her demonstration classroom experience at the annual national conference for Expeditionary Learning Education. She is a proud Buffalo Bills fan who would like to see more fourth downs attempted based on statistical analysis so that they can win more games. As a new member of the Master Teacher Program, Ms. Krull has already participated in a number of workshops at SUNY Geneseo including Beekeeping and Failure is Awesome: The Growth Mindset in the Math Classroom, the Mathematical Ideas for Curve Stitching and String mini-course, and she attended the Saturday conference Making Mathematics Engaging designed and led by Master Teachers in Western NY at SUNY Buffalo State.
Eric Krysty earned his BS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego, and MS in Integrating Technology in the Classroom from Walden University. Honored to teach at Churchville-Chili Senior High School Teaching for 14 years, Mr. Krysty is a New York State certified Technology Education teacher and certified Project Lead the Way teacher, currently teaching Design Drawing for Production, Principles of Engineering, and Civil Engineering and Architecture. He is also a proud instructor at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, where he orchestrates robotics summer camps, and an adjunct professor at Sinclair Community College. Mr. Krysty loves ice hockey and has played the game most of his life. He has dedicated the last decade to coaching high school hockey. He is inspired by Wernher von Braun's famous quote, "Research is what I'm doing when I don't know what I'm doing." As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Krysty is excited to learn from and share with the greatest teachers in New York State and pass this knowledge on to his students and community members.
Rajani (Raj) Kumaraswamy earned her BA in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of California at Berkeley and MA in Secondary Biology Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Inspired by teaching experiences in summer outreach programs while she was an undergrad, Raj decided to pursue a career in education. She began her teaching career in 2005 in New York City and taught there for 12 years before moving to the Rochester area and into her current position teaching Living Environment and Advanced Placement Biology at Webster Schroeder High School. Raj is passionate about keeping science current and interesting for her students and looks for ways to keep learning herself. She has spent summers doing developmental neurobiology research at Columbia University and coral reef research at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies in Australia. In her free time, Raj enjoys cooking, traveling, and trying to find the best Mexican food in the Rochester area (she is originally from California). Raj is a Master Teacher Emeritus of Math for America and is thrilled to be part of a community of like-minded educators again. She is eager to collaborate in Professional Learning Teams and continue to expand her science knowledge through informative mini-courses.
Kevin Laley earned his BA in Mathematics from Nazareth College with Adolescent Education Certification, MS in Mathematics from the University of Rhode Island and National Board Certification in Adolescent Mathematics Education in 2012. In the classroom for seven years, he teaches Algebra 2/Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and Computer Science at Fairport High School and courses at Nazareth College.
Kevin believes strongly in holding students to high standards and makes use of technology to enable his students to continue learning outside of the classroom; he has designed units based on the flipped classroom approach which supports more individualized instruction and cooperative learning during class periods and requires students to become independent learners outside class time. Mr. Laley's professional interests include new strategies for mathematics instruction and for implementing the Response to Intervention (RTI) program at Fairport High School. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is advisor for the Fairport Math Team, member of the district Scholarship Committee, and currently part of a team of teachers working to organize the Fairport Educators' Association annual golf tournament.
Lori Larocco earned her BA in Mathematics from Hamilton College, and MSEd from SUNY College at Cortland. In the classroom for 15 years, Mrs. LaRocco teaches Common Core Algebra and Advanced Placement Calculus at Webster Thomas High School.
Chris Law earned his BA in Biology from Alfred University and went directly to work as a Cancer Center lab technician at the University of Rochester. While coaching lacrosse in Fairport and Webster schools, Chris was inspired to become a teacher and earned his Master of Arts in Teaching from University of Rochester. At Brighton High School (BHS) Chris is currently co-teaching two courses: integrated Living Environment and (a STEM elective) Energy and Sustainability. He admits that sustainability has become a passion in his life and in his teaching, so he plans on attending all mini-courses on the subject, beginning with building the mini-house. One of Chris' goals for this school year is to expand Brighton's partnership with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in their Pollution Prevention Project: This year BHS students from Energy and Sustainability will go to RIT and study fuel cell technology. Outside the classroom, Chris serves as co-advisor for the Science Olympiad team and as a mentor in the Brighton Support Team helping students in need. When Chris is not on a Whale Watch or scuba diving in Grand Cayman with his students, he is probably fly-fishing in the Adirondacks and the Catskills, or on the Cohocton River near his Conesus home.
Mark Leader earned his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan and MA in Math Education from New York University. Mr. Leader teaches Geometry, Intermediate Algebra and Business Math at Webster Schroeder High School. Teaching for seven years, he is a passionate advocate of mathematics as an essential skill for all students, regardless of prior difficulties with math or future plans. As such, Mr. Leader emphasizes real life applications of new mathematic concepts. Teaching in an alternative high school program, Mr. Leader's professional interests focus on small group and individualized lessons and interdisciplinary projects, especially with science and technology. He participated in a regional conference to help plan the upcoming transition to Common Core Geometry, and is a member of the Common Core implementation team for his school. Mr. Leader is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and a former Fellow with the New York City chapter of Math for America.
Norman Lein earned his BS in Technology Education and BS in Industrial Technology from SUNY Buffalo State, and MSEd in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego. Additionally, he became National Board Certified in 2008 and has completed training in Project Lead the Way courses for Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Principles of Engineering, and Engineering Design and Development. Prior to teaching, Mr. Lein was an apprentice cabinetmaker and draftsman. He worked with general contractors, cabinetmakers, and architects on commercial projects. He has been teaching for 24 years in the Rush-Henrietta (RH) CSD and currently teaches Engineering Design and Development, Advanced Robotics, Construction Systems, and Wood Processing Technology at RH High School. Outside of the classroom Mr. Lein is a co-advisor for the RH Robotics team that competes in The First Tech Challenge and is the advisor for the snow sports club, taking students skiing and snowboarding at Bristol Mountain. He has also taught woodworking at night for adults in the continuing education program. Mr. Lein enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and snowmobiling. He also likes building projects and recently set up his own makerspace with a laser engraver, 3D printer and CNC machine. His father and his high school technology teacher both inspired him to be a lifelong learner. Mr. Lein is excited to work with other teachers in the STEM fields to further enhance his teaching.
Tosca Lindberg earned her BS in Engineering Science from Seattle Pacific University and MEd in Secondary Science Education from the University of Guam. An educator for 20 years, she teaches math at the Alternative High School in Rush Henrietta. Ms. Lindberg's professional interests focus on learning for mastery and Habits of Mind, two pedagogical approaches that emphasize perseverance, stamina, and self-assessment. One of Ms. Lindberg's recent projects focused on developing an independent learning skills curriculum for math for special education students. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ms. Lindberg serves as the manager of the school's student-run store, and supports students as they seek employment and job training. She was honored with the Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) Honorary Member Award for her contributions to the school's PBIS initiatives. With the NYS Master Teacher Program, Ms. Lindberg participated in workshops on the Flipped Classroom, the Big Bang Theory, Mars Exploration, and Stem in Our Neighborhood, and led a workshop entitled "STEM in Alternative Education" at the annual professional development conference in Albany. As math teacher, Ms. Lindberg's favorite STEM quote is "Black holes are where God divided by zero," by Albert Einstein.
Lisa LiPuma holds a BS in Childhood/Special Education and an MS in Literacy from Roberts Wesleyan University. Teaching since 2015, six of her teaching years have been at Spencerport Central Schools, where she has served both as a Special Education Teacher and currently as a General Education Classroom Teacher. Throughout her career, Ms. LiPuma has actively contributed as the Student Leader Advisor and Gardening Cluster Advisor while participating in several school committees. She's also a certified therapy dog handler through Alliance of Therapy Dogs, partnering with her golden retriever, Nelli, to provide consistent social and emotional support to students in the classroom setting. Beyond her educational role, Ms. LiPuma dedicates time volunteering at a local memory care facility alongside Nelli. She enjoys leisurely reading, spending time outdoors, and working in her garden. Joining the Master Teacher Program is a true honor, and Ms. LiPuma is excited to collaborate with fellow educators. She looks forward to sharing new knowledge with colleagues and fostering an enriching learning environment with the help of this supportive community.
Dan Liseno earned his BA from Lafayette College in Economics and Business and his MS in Childhood and Special Education from St. John Fisher College. Prior to teaching, he worked for the Wayne County Department of Social Services as a Foster Care Caseworker. Dan was inspired to enter teaching so he could return the lessons taught to him by numerous teachers and coaches throughout his youth. He began teaching for Wayne Central in 2010 as a 4th grade teacher, and currently teaches 5th grade science. He is also active coaching his school's varsity football and track teams. As a STEM teacher he is most interested in teaching engineering to younger students. He sees reward in watching students design at their own level and learn from their mistakes. Mr. Liseno enjoys spending his free time with his family, lifting, and grilling. He is very excited to start the Master Teacher Program and see how STEM lessons are run for younger students across the state.
Marie LoRe Geigel earned her BS in Chemistry from Le Moyne College and PhD in Chemistry from the University at Buffalo. Prior to beginning her teaching career, she worked as a research chemist for Calgon Corporation in Pittsburgh. Upon moving to NYS, she pursued her passion for teaching and earned a teaching certificate from St. John Fisher University. In the classroom for 23 years, Dr. Lo Re currently teaches Regents Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Pittsford Sutherland High School. She is a district mentor for teachers, serves on the Science Standards Steering Committee, and is advisor for the Student Outreach Club, the United Students against Violence Everywhere (U-SAVE) Club and Co-advisor of the Science Olympiad Team. Dr. Lo Re is a member of the American Chemical Society, the ACS National Award Selection Committee, Science Teachers' Association of New York State, and the American Association of Chemistry Teachers. She is co-founder and facilitator of the Rochester Area Chemistry Teacher (Re-ACT) group, which provides professional exchange and collaboration among teachers in the central Western NY region, served as coordinating mentor for the Biology and Chemistry Professional Development Network. Outside of the classroom, Dr. Lo Re enjoys reading, gardening, and cooking. She especially enjoys time with her family at their cottage on Lake Ontario. As a NYS Master Teacher, Dr. Lo Re is looking forward to collaborating, learning, and sharing with other educators who are passionate about creating exciting STEM experiences for students.
Robyn MacBride earned her BA in Physics from SUNY Geneseo and her MS in Science Education from the University of Rochester. In the classroom for 14 years, Mrs. MacBride has taught all levels of Physics and General Chemistry. She currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Physics C and AP Physics 1 at Greece Arcadia High School. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Mrs. MacBride is the Advisor to the National Honor Society and Advisor to the Masterminds Club. She is a member of the School Improvement Team, Attendance Committee, and Scheduling Committee. In her free time, Mrs. MacBride enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. When she is not sitting at an ice rink watching her children play hockey, she enjoys playing board games and doing puzzles. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to deepening her content knowledge about Physics and the other STEM fields as well as sharing best practices and collaborating with colleagues.
Michael Madden earned both his BS and MSEd in Physics and Mathematics Education from SUNY Cortland. Mr. Madden has been teaching physics for seven years, six of which have been in the Canandaigua City School District. He has taught International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Regents, and Conceptual Physics courses in his tenure at Canandaigua. Through the QuarkNet program at Syracuse University, Mr. Madden has studied high energy physics in the hopes of bringing those experiences into his classroom. Currently, Mr. Madden has seven students working on an independent study with a muon detector received from QuarkNet. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Madden is the coach of the Canandaigua Alpine Ski Team and works part-time at Bristol Mountain as a race coach. He co-advises the High School's Outdoor Club, and spends his summer months traveling with family and cycling around the Rochester region. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. Madden is a member of the Professional Learning Team developing and reviving the local Physics Teachers Alliance. He is most excited to work with other experienced teachers, especially at Western NY's Summer Workshop with Physics teachers hosted by Buffalo State.
Laura Maher earned her BS in Physics, with a minor in Astronomy from Grove City College and her Master's degree in Physics Education from St. John Fisher College. She began her teaching career in the East Irondequoit School District in 2015 after completing her student teaching with the district. She is currently teaching Local Physics and Regents Physics at James Monroe High School. Ms. Maher has been a Building Liaison for the transition to the Next Generation Science Standards for several years and has also worked to develop the district's new science courses. Ms. Maher enjoys seeing her students outside the classroom at sporting events and at school dances. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing board games, making music, and watching the Buffalo Bills. Ms. Maher has found that her passion for teaching physics stems from her interest in learning how the world functions. She is very excited about all of the new learning opportunities that the NYS Master Teacher Program will provide.
Lisa Mallaber earned her BS in Biotechnology from the Rochester Institute of Technology and MSEd from the University of Rochester. Ms. Mallaber teaches Chemistry and Living Environment at Livonia High School. A strong advocate of hands-on inquiry-based learning, she designs experiments that increase the opportunities for the students to think about the data they collect and appreciate the process of science. Ms. Mallaber's professional interests focus on inquiry learning, standards based instruction and designing new and creative ways to help students learn chemical concepts. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ms. Mallaber is advisor for the Science National Honor Society and the Senior Class, member of the school's scholarship committee, athletic booster club, and school safety team and the Chemical Hygiene Officer for the Livonia Central School District. She is active in professional organizations including the National Science Teachers Association, the Science Teacher Association of NYS and the American Chemical Society.
Nancy Mancuso earned her BS in Biology and Chemistry from SUNY Geneseo and her Masters in Education from the University of Massachusetts. As a 1994 graduate of MESTEP at UMass (Math English Science Technology Education Program funded by a grant to reform education). Mrs. Mancuso teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Biology and Regents Chemistry at Spencerport High School. She is an active member of the Ranger Robotics team 3015 and loves serving as the marketing lead mentor helping students write essays and present to judges on how their team is about more than just building robots. She has started a program where her AP Biology and robotics students go into elementary schools and teach STEM lessons, as well as a GEMS club (Girls Empowered in Math and Science). As a NYS Master Teacher, Nancy is excited to collaborate with teachers throughout the state to continually improve education and teaching practices.
Janice Mantell earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Education and a minor in Mathematics from the State University of New York at Fredonia. She earned her Master of Arts from the State University of New York at Brockport in Liberal Studies with a concentration in health and diversity of the adolescent student. For over twenty years she has taught Chemistry at LeRoy Junior-Senior High School, currently teaching Regents Chemistry and Advanced Placement Chemistry. Mrs. Mantell is also the science department chair. Additionally, Mrs. Mantell is the LeRoy Teacher’s Association vice president and serves on the union’s negotiation team. Throughout the years at LeRoy, she has been a mentor to new teachers in the building and has served on various committees. One of the committees that she is most proud of is her work on the School Improvement Team which led to revamping the graduation honor system and the adoption of the laude system. Previously at LeRoy, Mrs. Mantell coached Varsity cheerleading for seven years and was a NYS competitive cheer judge following coaching. In her free time, Mrs. Mantell enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, theater, and cheering on her two children in all of their activities. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Mantell is looking forward to collaborating with other educators and bringing new ideas back to her classroom and district.
Jason March earned his B.A. and M.S.Ed. in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo. Mr. March started his career as a building substitute teacher while obtaining his Master's degree. He currently teaches Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus BC at Pittsford Mendon High School. Before his current position, he started writing curriculum for the Geneseo Migrant Center. He spent several years designing and publishing math curriculum for grades 6-12 that aligned to the standards of the nine most populous states to support education for migrant families who travel across the country working on farms. His favorite part about teaching math is to bring it to life by exploring various real-world applications. Outside of the classroom, Mr. March spent six years coaching tennis for Sutherland High School, winning four sectional titles at that time. He also enjoys football, baseball, hockey, and woodworking. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. March is looking forward to collaborating with a group of esteemed colleagues to inspire new ideas to utilize within the classroom.
Rebecca Margiotta earned her BA in Sociology from SUNY Geneseo and her MS in Elementary Education from St. John Fisher College. Mrs. Margiotta has been teaching fourth grade for twelve years, first in the Liverpool School District and now at DeWitt Road Elementary in Webster. She is passionate about helping her students develop a deep connection with learning and motivating them to become self-directed in their inquiry. Rebecca believes that creating an environment that fosters curiosity, collaboration, compassion and reflection is the key to true and lasting learning. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Margiotta is an active member of the school community and has participated in action research, served on curriculum cabinets and mentored new teachers. Her personal interests include cooking, running, and traveling with her husband and two young children. As a NYS Master Teacher, Rebecca is looking forward to collaborating with other accomplished educators to improve her content knowledge and create a more meaningful learning experience for her students.
Melissa Marquart earned both her BS in Biology and MSEd in Inclusive Education from Nazareth College. In the classroom for 16 years, she currently teaches Advanced Placement Biology and Regents Living Environment at Geneva High School. Mrs. Marquart serves as the Science 6-12 Department Chairperson and has also served on her district's Personalized Learning Planning Committee. She has taken a leadership role in science curriculum development for her district, serves as a member of her school's after-school tutoring program, and is an active member of her school's Science Club. Mrs. Marquart is passionate about making science accessible and fun for all students. She believes in fostering her students' scientific literacy in a way that they will be able to use it throughout their lives. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Marquart loves spending quality time with her family, as well as cheering for the Buffalo Bills. Mrs. Marquart is honored to be selected for the NYS Master Teacher Program and looks forward to collaborating with other amazing educators in the area while broadening her own STEM knowledge so that it can be brought to life in her classroom.
Elizabeth McCheyne earned her B.F.A., B.S. in Education, and M.S. in Elementary Education from SUNY Cortland. She has also studied at the Altai State Pedagogical University in Siberia on a Fulbright Hayes Grant and participated in the Sea Grant, Lake Michigan Shipboard Science Workshop on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) research vessel, Lake Guardian. In the classroom for 27 years, Ms. McCheyne currently teaches 5th grade Science and Social Studies at South Seneca Elementary School. She is a Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers (CIBT) alumni, Discover Cayuga Lake Floating Classroom Advisory Committee member and plays an active role in the Science Teachers Association of New York (STANYS). Outside of the classroom, Ms. McCheyne serves as a coach for modified softball and leader for Children in the Stream, a program designed to help students develop a love of the environment through fly fishing and fly tying. Outside of school, she is President of the South Seneca Teachers Association and a member of New York State United Teachers Civil and Human Rights Committee. She enjoys kayaking, fishing, and camping. Ms. McCheyne's goal as a teacher is to create engaged and scientifically literate citizens who can appreciate the beauty and wonder of science in the world around them. She is excited to be part of the Master Teacher Program to work with other teachers that love science and are committed to lifelong learning.
James McEntee earned his BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education from SUNY Geneseo and MSEd in Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment from Walden University. During his 11 years at Webster Schroeder High School, Mr. McEntee has taught Algebra, Algebra Intensive, Geometry, Geometry Enriched, Algebra 2 & Trigonometry, Algebra 2 & Trigonometry Enriched, Trigonometry & Functions, Precalculus, & AB Calculus. He strongly believes in holding all his students to high standards and is an advocate for instructing with technology in a way that enhances instruction without taking the place of essential understandings. In addition to his classroom responsibilities, he has also served as the boys & girls Varsity tennis coach for 10 years. During that time the team has won divisional & sectional team titles and a NYS singles championship. Mr. McEntee has also been a NYS Math League Board Member and a district presenter on effective questioning techniques & writing in the mathematics classroom. Jim has also won and placed second in the New York State pickeball tournament. With the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. McEntee looks forward to continuing to learn strategies and content to connect students to the everyday math that surrounds them.
Erin McKenna earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MA in Liberal Studies from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for 18 years at Gates Chili High School, Mrs. McKenna teaches Algebra, Algebra 2 and Calculus. She is a passionate mathematics teacher who advocates hard work, discipline, productive struggle, and pure love for math. Mrs. McKenna challenges herself to implement best practices including differentiated instruction, the use of technology, and student-centered learning. She has taken the lead on dissecting and implementing the new Common Core Algebra and Algebra 2 curricula in her building. She enjoys sharing with her freshmen all the math they will have the opportunity to take in high school, and seeing some as Advanced Placement students their senior year, and saying "Congratulations, you did it!" Outside her professional life, Mrs. McKenna enjoys spending time with her husband and two beautiful young children. As a NYS Master Teacher, she has participated in a variety of workshops including Teaching and Leading your Peers, the History of Calculus, and Statistics for Algebra 2. Mrs. McKenna is looking forward to collaborating with other great teachers to integrate math and science.
William McKenna earned his BS in Physics Secondary Education from SUNY Fredonia and MA in Liberal Studies from SUNY Brockport. At Gates Chili for 17 years, he teaches Conceptual Physics, Regents Physics, and Advanced Placement Physics 1. Mr. McKenna integrates technology and hands-on explorations in his classroom to make learning more student-centered and inquiry-based. He is passionate about physics and math, and the opportunities that they can open for students, and believes that all students can succeed. He continually works to differentiate his instruction to meet the all diverse needs. Outside the classroom, Mr. McKenna is the Science Department Leader, serves on the District Technology Committee, and advises the Ski Club and Yorker Club. In his free time, he can be found with his family on the ski slopes when it is snowing, or on the water when the weather is warm. Mr. McKenna sees teaching as a constant work in progress, and is excited to be part of the NYS Master Teacher Program to grow in both his STEM content knowledge and teaching practice. He is a member of the RAPTOR Physics Professional Learning Team, and has participated in a variety of workshops including Teaching and Leading your Peers, Alternative Energy Systems, and the Physics Make-and-Take.
Jason McLaughlin earned his BA in Biology from Harvard University, and Master of Education from Drexel University. In the classroom for ten years, Mr. McLaughlin teaches Honors Chemistry and International Baccalaureate Environmental Systems and Societies at Canandaigua Academy.
Jason McMurray earned his BS in Animal Science from Cornell University and MS in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Rochester. After graduating from Cornell, he worked for several years as a lab technician for Equine Drug Testing to test samples from race horses. He turned to teaching in 2000 so that he could help others have the opportunities that he had. He currently works at Eastridge High School teaching many scientific topics including Living Environment, Physical Science, and Food Science. He enjoys the challenge of getting a student to answer scientifically the question "Why should I care?" when they are telling him about their lab results. Mr. McMurray lives by a motto from his high school football coach, "You must believe to achieve." This same thinking is applied when coaching the Track and Robotics Teams. If he is not practicing Tae Kwon Do, he is taking summer driving vacations around the country with his family or playing bass in a band with "The" Louis Carusone. He looks forward to increasing his academic knowledge through the Master Teacher Program to improve his skills. He is also excited about sharing what he knows with those who will carry on the torch long after he is retired.
Timothy Mead earned his BS and MS in Mathematics Education from Buffalo State College in Buffalo, NY. After earning his Masters, he earned an AAS in Information Technology from Erie Community College with a concentration in Networking through the Cisco Networking Academy. Mr. Mead instructed CNA courses at ECC as well. His teaching career began in 2006 at Pavilion Central School. Mr. Mead worked as a Network Engineer at PCI Incorporated during his teaching career as well. After working as a part time Technology Coordinator while teaching at Wyoming Central School district, he returned to his roots at Pavilion to teach Algebra I and Applied Mathematics. Throughout his 17 years of teaching, he has served as a tennis coach, class advisor, and initiated the school’s chess club. If he’s outside of school, Mr. Mead is at North Darien Bible Church serving as the Head Deacon, Audio/Visual team member, and a teacher to the youth and children ministries or sending time with his wife and daughter. His variety of experiences led to his belief that all around service is an integral part of success. He hopes to learn more about this through the Master Teacher Program. Mr. Mead was most intrigued by becoming a master teacher when his former professor, Dr. David Wilson, said it should be named “The Master Learner Program.”
Michael Meise earned his B.S. in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and M.A. in Education from the University of Phoenix. Mr. Meise has taught Secondary Mathematics at Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School since 2001. He currently teaches AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, IB Mathematics Sll, and IB Mathematics SL2. Outside of the classroom, he serves as the coach of the Monroe County Math League Team, the Girls' Varsity Volleyball Team, and the Coed Varsity Golf Team. Mr. Meise also leads district-based professional developments, most notably in Statistics, and is a former presenter at Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS conferences. Mr. Meise also works in collaboration with SUNY Brockport on increasing the use of simulations in math and science instruction for middle school and high school students. He is an avid golfer and loves to travel with his wife and daughter (who is currently a Freshman at New York University). Mr. Meise is looking forward to collaboration with other Master Teachers to broaden his STEM content and enhance his teaching practice. Of particular interest to Mr. Meise are workshops on increasing rigor and improving recruitment for and instruction in AP Mathematics courses.
Karin Meuwissen earned her BS in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo, and an MS in Applied Mathematics from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Employed at the high school within the Gananda School District since the fall of 2004, she currently teaches Algebra and Gemini Pre-Calculus. Ms. Meuwissen is involved in her school outside of the classroom, currently serving on the School Improvement Team, the Strategic Planning Team, and as Teacher Leader in the district's initiative to introduce personalized learning into the classrooms. She is also the Varsity Girls' Basketball Coach, and Advisor to the Senior Class, the school's Varsity Club, and Friends of Rachel, a club centered on reducing bullying. Ms. Meuwissen enjoys visiting the Adirondack Mountains, as well as sharing time and traveling with her nieces and nephew. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Meuwissen has participated in the Teaching and Leading your Peers workshop and taken the Mathematical Ideas for Curve Stitching mini-course. She looks forward exploring ways in which she can grow as an educator, and to collaborating with fellow Master Teachers about ways to enhance student learning.
Kirsten Meyers earned her BS in Biology, General Science, and Secondary Education from Grove City College and MS in Education and Adolescence Biology from SUNY Brockport. She began teaching in 2003 at Merton Williams Middle School in Hilton Central School District. Kirsten was inspired to become a science teacher because science offers students a chance to discover the truths and reasons for the world around them. She covets the opportunity to build relationships with her students, and to see them learn about science. She teaches 7th and 8th grade General Science, as well as Regents Living Environment to accelerated 8th graders. Kirsten co-advises National Junior Honor Society, and is on the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports committee (PBIS). She also coaches the middle school volleyball team, and chaperones the 8th grade trip to Washington D.C. Kirsten writes science curriculum for her district and is a Category 2 trained International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB MYP) teacher. She enjoys traveling, training for and running half marathons, and spending time with her husband and two young boys. What she is most looking forward to in the NYS Master Teachers Program is meeting science educators from across the state, and furthering her practice through participating in high level science professional development.
Stacie Miller earned her BA in Elementary Education with a Middle School Extension in Mathematics from SUNY Fredonia College, MA in Mathematics from St. John Fisher College, while extending her certification to Secondary Mathematics and National Board Certification in Adolescent Mathematics. Mrs. Miller has been in the classroom teaching courses in Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2/Trigonometry Regents and Honors and Math 12 Investigations at Fairport High School for 12 years. Mrs. Miller has also been an Adjunct Professor at Nazareth College and St. John Fisher College teaching various courses in Mathematics. Mrs. Miller is an active member at her school serving on the Teacher Advisory Council, Technology Vision Team as well as an Advisor for the Fairport High School Chapter of the National Honor Society. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her extremely supportive husband and two beautiful young children. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Miller is looking forward to monthly meetings and Professional Learning Teams to collaborate, learn, share, and reflect with such a talented group of professionals.
Craig Mills earned his BS in Mathematics and MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY College at Brockport, and is National Board certified in Adolescent Mathematics. Mr. Mills's first job was at a local drug store where he managed others. These experiences inspired him to take cross country road trips and pursue a career in teaching where daily interaction could make a difference in people's' lives. Mr. Mills has been an educator since 2001 and currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics, Applied Statistics, and Algebra 2. He serves as a member of both the Instructional Team and the Long-Term Planning Committee for Mathematics. He is a teacher coordinator for the student leadership program, Link Crew, and is the social activities director. Mr. Mills spent the last four years teaching as an adjunct professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology and as an AP Statistics Reader. He is passionate about reforming mathematics education to make it more application-oriented. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Mills is looking forward to networking with teachers in the region to continue to change and shape the way he teaches mathematics.
Stefana Monachino earned her BS in Biotechnology from the Rochester Institute of Technology and her MS in Math, Science, Technology Education from St. John Fisher College. Wanting to instill a love of learning in others and remembering the influential teachers in her life, she entered the teaching profession in 2000. She currently works with students in grades 3-5 in math, science and technology as the Math, Science, and Technology Coach at French Road Elementary School. In this position, Stefana collaborates with teachers to co-teach, differentiate instruction, and analyze student work to plan effective lessons. She chairs the 3-5 Math Committee, the K-5 Science Committee, and the K-5 Innovative Learning/Technology Committee. She is also a member of the District Instructional Leaders Team, the District Math Committee, and District Innovative Teaching and Learning Committee. Stefana is involved with the local BOCES Science Leaders Cohort, BOCES Math Leaders, and BOCES Instructional Technology Leadership Regional Team. As a STEM teacher, she is most passionate about fostering critical thinking through problem solving. Outside of education, Stefana enjoys baking, traveling, and spending time with her family. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to learning and collaborating with other Master Teachers in the region.
Gabriel Moore earned his BS Magna Cum Laude in Earth Science from SUNY Brockport and MS in Geoscience from Mississippi State University. He conducted marine biology and geology field studies in Barbados, Bahamas, and Outer Banks, NC. Mr. Moore's Oceanography professor inspired him to begin teaching Earth Science in 2004. He currently teaches integrated co-teach and accelerated seventh-grade science at Greece Athena Middle School. He is the Ski Club advisor and coaches the Soccer and Softball teams. Mr. Moore is an active member of the district-wide Science Leadership Team, NYS and National Science Teachers and Earth Science Teachers Associations, Braddock Bay Raptor Research, and Rochester Academy of Science Fossil, Astronomy, and Life Science sections. He creates professional development for teachers such as Kayaking the Braddock Bay Ecosystem Restoration Project and studying migrating raptors. He is passionate about creating field experiences for students including Cornell University's eDNA Fish Tracker, owl prowl and raptor banding, telescope observations, St. John Fisher Science Exploration Day, Lake Ontario limnology, and Rochester Gorge geology. Mr. Moore remembers how much he loved kayaking, mountain biking, and wakeboarding before the birth of his three beautiful children. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is excited to collaborate with STEM teachers across the state to develop field experiences for both teachers and students.
Theresa Morabito earned her BS in Molecular Genetics and BA in Economics from the University of Rochester, and MS in Education from the Warner School of Education. Mrs. Morabito started teaching in 2011. As a science special education teacher, Theresa currently co-teaches two sections of Living Environment, one 15:1 Essentials section of Living Environment, and a resource room at Canandaigua Academy. Mrs. Morabito is involved in the science department outcomes committee to determinine goals in light of the new science standards. Previously, she advised a Chemistry Club and organized professional development opportunities for her colleagues. Theresa also currently serves as a Subject Area Representative for Special Education for the Central Western Section of the Science Teachers Association of NYS. As a STEM teacher, Mrs. Morabito is passionate about encouraging students to explore the scientific phenomena that they are studying. Mrs. Morabito is also driven by finding ways to make this type of learning accessible to all students. Outside of school, Theresa enjoys reading books, doing puzzles, and baking. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Morabito is looking forward to participating in professional development opportunities and be able to bring even more exciting experiences into her classroom.
Jennifer Nieves earned her BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education and her MEd in Multicultural Education from Eastern University. Mrs. Nieves has been teaching for 15 years, the first five years in Philadelphia and ten years at her current school, Webster Thomas High School. She currently Algebra 1 and 2 and is advisor for Student Council, DREAM (Demonstrating Real Equality for All Mankind), and the Sources of Strength clubs. Mrs. Nieves also taught math for four years for the First Star Academy, a nonprofit foster youth educational program. She strives to make all students feel welcome and valued in her classroom, believing the student-teacher connection can be a catalyst for achievement. Mrs. Nieves also incorporates mindfulness practices, acknowledging that emotional awareness and stress management are components that positively impact learning. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Nieves loves exploring life with her husband and two children. As a Master teacher she looks forward to the opportunity for learning and collaborating with passionate and creative educators to make new connections across the STEM contents.
Taryn Nole earned her AAS in Mathematics from Mohawk Valley Community College, and both her BA in Mathematics and MS in Math, Science, and Technology Education from St. John Fisher College. She is currently teaching Math 8 and Advanced Placement Calculus in her 17th year at LeRoy Junior Senior High School, and 21st year of teaching overall. Mrs. Nole is the chair of the math department, advisor of the school's Scholastic Bowl team, and member of the School Improvement Team. Throughout her years at LeRoy, she has advised the math teams, academic challenge bowl and yearbook, and has coached track and field. Mrs. Nole is a member of the Association of Math Teachers of New York State (AMTNYS) and currently serves as a District Representative. In her free time, she enjoys going to the theater, spending time with her family, and reading. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to collaborate with educators from all disciplines to share best practices and continue looking for ways to improve her students' experiences in the classroom.
Kathleen O'Dea earned her BA in Geological Sciences from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Math, Science, and Technology Education at St. John Fisher College. She has been teaching for 14 years at Barker Road Middle School in the Pittsford Central School District. Mrs. O'Dea teaches 8th Grade General Science and Accelerated Regents Earth Science. She has been Barker Road's science club advisor for most of her career and has also advised Academic Challenge Bowl and Junior Achievement. She is a member of Pittsford's Professional Learning Community Advisory Committee and is an active member in curriculum development and collegial circles within the district. One of her favorite things about teaching science is hearing stories from her students on how they used their scientific knowledge outside of the classroom or how they shared it with others. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys exploring streams and forests with her husband and three children. As a Master Teacher, Mrs. O'Dea is looking forward to working with preservice teachers, joining PLT's, and participating in outdoor courses. She has hosted many scientific community members in her classroom and is eager to develop more professional connections through the NYSMT program.
Stephen O'Dea earned his B.S. in Childhood/Special Education and M.S. in Mathematics Adolescent Education from SUNY Geneseo. Teaching at Perry Senior High School for 12 years, he currently teaches Geometry and Financial Math and Applications. Mr. O'Dea also has experience teaching Math 7, Math 8, Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. Outside of the classroom, Mr. O'Dea serves as an advisor to the Stand-UP leadership club, where students complete service projects to help their school or community. Before starting a family, he coached Varsity and JV boys soccer in his district for nine years. Mr. O'Dea enjoys attending sporting and musical events, and in his spare time, hiking, running, traveling, and playing ping pong. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers and experiencing a wide variety of professional development opportunities. He excited to learn new ways to improve practice in his classroom.
Laura O'Donnell earned her BS in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, along with Secondary Education Certification from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Biology Education from SUNY Buffalo State. Mrs. O'Donnell has been in the classroom for over 11 years and has pursued additional certifications in Chemistry and Earth Science. She currently teaches Honors and Regents Biology at Attica High School. Throughout her years at Attica, Mrs. O'Donnell has been the Ski Club Advisor, Science Club Advisor, a member of the Shared Decision Making Team, and a Class Advisor. She also taught an afterschool college level Biotechnology course for iSci Western New York, a program to introduce life sciences career and industry opportunities. Mrs. O'Donnell is in her third year participating in the Western New York Genetics in Research Partnership where she leads an interactive project in basic genome analysis and bioinformatics with students. She is a member of the National Science Teachers Association, and the Science Teachers Association of New York State. Outside of school, Mrs. O'Donnell loves spending time with her family. Within the Master Teacher Program, she is a member of the Biology Professional Learning Team, and has participated in a variety of workshops including Sports-Related Concussions, Teaching and Leading your Peers, and Water to Energy Systems
Christopher Oaks earned his B.A. in Mathematics and his M.S.Ed. in Mathematics Education from SUNY Fredonia. Mr. Oaks teaches FLCC and AP Calculus, Algebra 2, and an Algebra Extended course at Palmyra-Macedona High School. He is dedicated to making math applicable to his students' lives through creative projects. Mr. Oaks has helped implement the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program and served on the Building Team and the Pal-Mac Way, a committee that focuses on communicating the character traits of Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Citizenship across the school community. He also coaches the Girls Varsity Swim Team at Palmyra-Macedon High and sits on the board of the local Dollars for Scholars chapter. Outside of school, Christopher enjoys competing in triathlons and traveling with his wife, Sarah. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to mentoring pre-service teachers in the region and collaborating with other STEM teachers to create interdisciplinary lessons.
Debra Ortenzi earned her BS in Biological Science from SUNY Brockport and her MS in STEM Education from St. John Fisher College. She is a Fund for Teachers Fellow and experienced three weeks traveling New Zealand learning about their Enviroschools program, proving her love of travel and life-long learning. She is also a NOYCE Master Teacher Fellow. Ms. Ortenzi teaches Regents Living Environment and dual credit Biology through SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry at World of Inquiry School #58, where she is a mentor teacher. She entered teaching after being inspired by her own high school Biology teacher, also in the city of Rochester. She runs the school's recycling program, organizes many field studies for her students, and collaborates with the elementary teachers in her building to arrange opportunities for her students to teach the younger students. Ms. Ortenzi is passionate about empowering her students to think critically and have authentic inquiry learning experiences. Every time a student grapples with a scientific concept followed by understanding, she feels her mission has been accomplished. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Ortenzi looks forward to participating in professional development opportunities and collaborating with other teachers.
Alicia Pakusch earned her BA in Adolescent Mathematics and Special Education from Keuka College and MSEd in Educational Technology from Nazareth College. After completing her MSEd, Miss Pakusch took a volunteer trip to Suva, Fiji for two weeks where she taught Year 8 Mathematics. In the classroom for 9 years, Miss Pakusch currently teaches 8th Grade Math and Accelerated Math (Algebra) at AD Oliver Middle School, serves as the Subject Area Leader for Math, and is a Union building representative. She has also served in various roles with the school musical, enjoys officiating track meets, and attends school functions and sporting events. She has worked for Genesee Community College with the Upward Bound program, teaching classes about financial literacy and problem solving. Miss Pakusch is a member of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State and has worked with the Regional Math Cadre through the University of Rochester, as well as the Rochester Math Circle Leadership Team. She recently started as an Adjunct Lecturer with SUNY Brockport. During her free time, Miss Pakusch enjoys getting outside, whether it's exploring a local park with her dog, traveling both within and outside of the United States, or hiking the Adirondack High Peaks.
Alyse Palumbo earned her BA in Geology at SUNY Geneseo, and her MSEd. with a focus on Literacy from Nazareth College. Earning a degree in Literacy, has given Ms. Palumbo a unique lens and appreciation for the role of meaning making in education and has inspired her to spend much of her time learning about how people learn. In the classroom for 12 years, she teaches Earth Science and Anatomy at Sutherland High School and has also taught Regents level Earth Science. Mrs. Palumbo focuses on serving the students who are classified as needing special education and marginalized populations. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, she has taken on various advisership roles, and is particularly interested in promoting mental health, equity in the school community and beyond, and mindfulness. She serves on the Guardians of Equity committee, a group committed to learning and promoting social emotional learning strategies within the school, and is a member of Sources of Strength, a suicide prevention program. Mrs. Palumbo is excited about the Master Teacher Program, for the simple fact that she is a lover of learning. She is eager to engage in professional learning opportunities with like-minded individuals to grow as an educator, teacher, scientist, and person.
Matthew Parker earned his BA in History and Elementary Education from LeMoyne College and his MS in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology from the University at Albany. Starting his teaching career in 2002, Mr. Parker has taught K-5 elementary computer science, math academic intervention, and 4th grade at LaFayette Intermediate School in the Waterloo Central School District. During his time in the district, he has led the Elementary Technology Team, served as the district webmaster, co-organized EdCamp Between the Lakes, and been a member of the Instructional Technology Team, Regional Technology Integrators group and Science Fair. Mr. Parker is currently a New York State Teacher Center Director. As a center director, he has worked to provide teachers with high quality professional learning in multiple disciplines including STEM. Mr. Parker has presented at the New York State Computers and Technology in Education Conference, Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES Personalized Learning Conference, NYS Teacher Centers Symposiums, and the NYS Retired Teachers Convention. He was also given the honor of being named the Waterloo Education Association Teacher of the Year. He has worked with the Warner School at the University of Rochester on the SMART Start Grant for computer science. Outside of school Mr. Parker enjoys coaching his daughter's softball and soccer teams. In his free time, he works on his in-law's beef farm and is an avid outdoorsman. He looks forward to expanding the conversations about the STEM fields and their impact on students' growth and sense of wonder.
Jill Paris earned her BS in Chemistry and MS in Secondary Science Education (Chemistry) from Syracuse University. While at Syracuse, she became a member of Alpha Chi Sigma (the professional chemistry fraternity). She was inspired to be a science teacher by having an outstanding chemistry teacher in high school that filled her with a passion for sharing knowledge about science. Mrs. Paris started teaching at Penfield High School in 2007 and currently teaches Regents and Honors Chemistry there, but also developed and taught the course, "Insights into Physics and Chemistry". While at Penfield, Jill has had the opportunity to work with several student teachers and observing students from local colleges. Mrs. Paris has also been able to facilitate students participating in the annual Monroe County Envirothon. Outside the classroom, Jill is an avid runner and animal enthusiast. She lives on a farm with her family and their horses, dogs, cats, and bunny. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Paris is excited to collaborate with skilled teachers from other districts, and take part in professional development opportunities that keep her growing as an educator.
Lisa Parish graduated magna cum laude with a BS in Forestry and Environmental Biology from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and received her Master of Arts in Teaching from SUNY Cortland. Prior to teaching, Ms. Parish worked as a research technician in Plant Breeding and Genetics at Cornell. She began her teaching career at Waterloo in 2004 and taught at the middle school for ten years. She currently teaches Living Environment, Environmental Science, and started a PBL-elective called Cinema and Science at the high school. Ms. Parish is the Advisor to the Class of 2019, students whom were her last group of middle school students. In 2018, Lisa was one of ten teachers across the nation to be awarded with The Teachers Guild Fellowship and she was honored to receive the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award. She is a member of the Personalized Learning Committee at her school and spoke at the Wayne-Finger Lakes Personalized Learning Conference on "Making PBL Personal". In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children, hiking, camping, fishing, and is a licensed private pilot. Ms. Parish is excited to collaborate with colleagues across the region and the state in the NYS Master Teacher Program, and elevate the education experience for her students.
Mark Pellegrino earned his B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Natural Science from the University at Buffalo. Prior to earning his teaching credentials from Buffalo State College, Mr. Pellegrino was a Cancer Research Scientist at Roswell Park Memorial Institute in Buffalo. Mr. Pellegrino has been in the classroom for thirty years and is currently teaching both AP Biology and the Living Environment at Pittsford Sutherland High School. Outside of the classroom, he serves as chair of the Science Department and advises both the Anatomy Exploration and One Step Forward Research clubs. Mr. Pellegrino is also an adjunct professor of Physics and Anatomy at Monroe Community College and St. John Fisher College, respectively. He believes in the mantra “It is all about customer service,” as he strives to deliver the best possible classroom experience to all of his students. He is an avid poker player and a Nationally Certified Cheerleading Judge. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Pellegrino is looking forward to the opportunity to mentor both pre-service and beginning teachers, as well as to discuss the future of science assessment in the state.
Joseph C. Perry earned his BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in Earth Sciences from SUNY Fredonia and MS in Administrative Education from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Perry started teaching Regents Earth and Space Sciences at Palmyra Macedon High School in 1998, and started teaching dual credit courses (Intro to Astronomy, Intro to Geology and Science of Natural Disasters) in 2008. He also maintains the Palmyra Macedon Central School District's Weatherbug Weather Station, and frequently holds star viewing events with the district's 11-inch Celestron telescope. Outside the classroom, Mr. Perry is advisor to the MasterMinds club, Model UN, is the Wayne Finger Lakes earth and space science mentor teacher. Mr. Perry has been an union executive officer for more than 20 years, is a past president of Palmyra-Macedon Faculty Association and currently is the president of the Wayne County Educators Federation. Since 2004 he has worked at NYSED as an educational specialist for test development. Mr. Perry is an avid traveler for school and science. He has been lead or co chaperone for school trips to; Niagara Falls, Albany, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington DC, Grand Canyon, the United Kingdom and Greece. He has been selected to attend Honeywell Educators at Space Academy in 2018, CERN's International Teacher's Weeks in 2022 and CGLL's Shipboard Science in 2023. Mr. Perry has been honored to receive the awards of; Special Recognition by Palmyra-Macedon's BOE in 2008, The Edward G Roy Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching - National Finalist by AGI in 2019 and Outstanding Earth Science Teacher for New York State by NAGT in 2023.
Joshua Piano earned his BS and MSEd in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego. In the classroom for 10 years, he teaches Introduction to Technology at Spry Middle School in Webster, NY. He serves as a ski club chaperone. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Piano is a Master Teacher for Project Lead the Way and enjoys connecting with teachers from all over the country to introduce them to new STEM curricula that they can bring back to their students. Mr. Piano's fascination with psychology and technology started at a very young age and his high school Technology Teacher, Mr. Gallina, asked, “Why don't you become a Tech Teacher? ” This question lead to a fruitful teaching career where he continues to learn in both areas every day. When Mr. Piano is not teaching, he enjoys spending time with his family camping, biking, skiing, skating and pretty much anything outside. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to learning about all things teaching and STEM from his peers.
Jason Picardo earned his BA in mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and his MS in Secondary Mathematics Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for more than 14 years, he teaches Algebra, Advanced Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry and Pre-Calculus in the Gates Chili Central School District. He has been a soccer coach for over 10 years in the Gates Chili community and most recently served as the Gates Chili High School Boys Varsity Head Coach. A strong advocate of student-driven learning, Mr. Picardo believes that the most important thing we can do as educators is help our students learn how to learn. "After that, anything is possible!" A lifelong learner himself, Mr. Picardo enjoys a variety of activities including golf, running, cooking, and wine making. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Picardo is looking forward to collaborating with his fellow Master Teachers across the state and bringing innovative instructional techniques back to his colleagues at Gates Chili.
Jamie Porta earned his BS in chemistry from SUNY Geneseo, MSEd from the University of Buffalo, and National Board Certification in science. In the classroom for 16 wonderful years, the last 15 at Brighton High School, Mr. Porta teaches chemistry and physics. In addition to his classroom responsibilities, he is advisor for the Mountain Bound Course and the Outdoor Club. These two programs focus on teambuilding and leadership by taking students to the Adirondacks, Colorado, and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. Mr. Porta was also the Department Coordinator for the Science Department for seven years. He founded and advised the Brighton Science Research Club, which focuses on helping students to do more STEM activities outside the classroom and connects students interested in a science degree with local colleges. This summer he is excited to take his wife, and two young children hiking and camping. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Porta is looking forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers about best practices and utilizing these practices to make his classes even more rewarding for students.
David Porter served in the United States Air Force as a Weather Specialist prior to earning his BS in Imaging and Photographic Technology from Rochester Institute of Technology, and working for Eastman Kodak as a Digital Imaging Specialist. After 10 years at Kodak, Mr. Porter entered SUNY Brockport to earn his MS in Biology. Teaching at Victor Senior High School for 13 years, he currently teaches Regents Living Environment, Advanced Placement Biology and International Baccalaureate Biology. In the classroom, Mr. Porter uses a flipped classroom approach to help his students become independent learners. During the summer, Mr. Porter teaches a summer enrichment program in Microbiology for younger students. He is an active member of the Victor High School's Building Council, and has served on the Curriculum Council, and as a leader/mentor for the High School's Biology Club. Combining his photographic background and love for Biology, Mr. Porter enjoys photographing the many aspects of nature. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Porter is very much looking forward to sharing information and ideas with colleagues and to continue to improve as an educator.
Stephen Powers earned his B.S. in Technology Management from SUNY Oswego and M.S. in Multi-Disciplinary Studies from Rochester Institute of Technology. In the classroom since 2005, Mr. Powers currently teaches eighth grade Introduction to Technology at Thomas C. Armstrong Middle School in Ontario Center. Mr. Powers serves as President of the Four County Technology Engineering Educators Association and is the Western District Vice-President for the NYS Technology and Engineering Educators Association. He also advises the Technology Student Association and is head coach of the Junior Varsity golf team. In his free time, he enjoys golfing and traveling with his wife. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Powers is looking forward to the personal professional growth opportunities and peer collaboration within the NYS Master Teacher Program.
Patricia Pragel earned her BA in Mathematics at SUNY Geneseo, and MSEd at Nazareth College of Rochester. She has been a mathematics teacher at Greece Arcadia High School in Greece since 1993. Over the years, Mrs. Pragel has taught all levels of high school mathematics. For the past nine years, she has taught Precalculus and Advanced Placement Calculus AB. For almost 20 years, Mrs. Pragel has been the advisor for the Greece Arcadia Math Team which competes at the county level, and since 1997, she has been a coach for the Upstate New York Math Team which competes at the national level at Penn State University. Her three adult children are all graduates from Greece Arcadia High School and all three are following in her footsteps as mathematics educators, at the collegiate level. As a new NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Pragel is looking forward to networking with other mathematics educators around the county and state, and hoping to help spread the love for the beauty of mathematics to future mathematicians.
Jesse Pryor earned his BS in Education from SUNY Geneseo and a MS in Secondary Math Education from Utica College. In the classroom for 18 years, Mr. Pryor currently teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry in Construction at Eastridge HS. In the Geometry in Construction course, Mr. Pryor team-teaches with a technology teacher. The course is designed to provide applications of geometry within the world of construction. In addition to teaching, Mr. Pryor is the Math League Advisor and Chess Coach. He also enjoys coaching his school's Unified Basketball team, a program that partners with Special Olympics. In the summer of 2013, Mr. Pryor was chosen as a Funds for Teacher fellow on an adventure to study the works of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Part of his adventure was the honor of being a teacher resident at Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater for a week. In his spare time, Mr. Pryor enjoys exploring the outdoors with his family. He is excited to work with other Master Teachers in this program and looks forward to bringing new STEM ideas back to his school community.
Brittney Pulcini earned her BA in Mathematics from St. John Fisher University and MS in Mathematics Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom since 2004, Mrs. Pulcini has taught Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, AP Statistics and Introduction to Java Programming at Wayne Central School District. She focuses on creating an environment where her students work collaboratively with their peers. Mrs. Pulcini was formerly the districts Instructional Technology Trainer and has continued to infuse the use of instructional technology tools into her classroom to support a more student-centered environment. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Pulcini has served on the District Professional Development Team, Teacher Center Director, advisor of the National Honor Society and is currently a member of the High School Building Planning Team. She is excited to collaborate and learn alongside other NYS Master Teachers to learn to new ways to improve her practice. In her spare time, Mrs. Pulcini enjoys spending time with her husband and son, as well as reading and scrapbooking.
John Quester earned his BS in chemistry from SUNY Geneseo, his MSEd from SUNY Brockport, and National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Science in 2013. In the classroom for nearly ten years, Mr. Quester teaches 8th grade physical science and 7th grade life science at Martha Brown Middle School in Fairport. Mr. Quester is a strong advocate of hands-on and inquiry-based learning, and his classroom instruction focuses on student-centered activities that help foster the critical thinking and problem solving skills needed in the 21st Century. He is an active member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS, among other professional organizations. From an early age, Mr. Quester loved to explore the world around him, and he continues to enjoy this connection with nature through hiking, skiing, and various outdoor activities with his wife and two young children. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Quester is looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with fellow STEM educators to better support and foster a love of science and learning in his classroom.
Rachel Rahmlow earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MSEd in Adolescence Mathematics from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for eleven years, Mrs. Rahmlow has taught math at every grade level from 7-12, and is currently teaching 7th and 8th grade math at Gates-Chili Middle School. She is a co-advisor for both the Girls Who Code Club and the Math Counts Club, promoting and encouraging students to learn computer coding, to compete in math events, and to take interest in the STEM fields. Mrs. Rahmlow is on the district's Resiliency Committee along with the Building Equity Team, partnering with NYU to promote equity and systematic change in her district. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Rahmlow is the Indoor and Outdoor Varsity Track and Field Pole Vault Coach implementing skills and a positive work ethic in all of her student athletes. In her spare time, Mrs. Rahmlow loves to travel the world, explore new cultures, and scuba dive in the ocean! As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Rahmlow looks forward to collaborating with other math experts in the field to bring authentic experiences to her classroom and promote more STEM careers to her students.
Paul Reininger earned his AS in Computer Science from Monroe Community College, BA in Mathematics Education from SUNY at Geneseo, and MSEd in Mathematics from Walden University. In the classroom for nine years, Mr. Reininger teaches Math 8 and Advanced Algebra 1 at Drake Jr. High School.
Kimberly Reisinger earned her BA in Mathematics and BS in Psychology from SUNY Brockport. She was excited to be hired by the Greece Central School District where she grew up and began working as a high school math teacher at Arcadia High School. She earned her MS in Secondary Mathematics Education from University of Rochester and then quickly took up different roles at Arcadia. She is one of the advisors to Arcadia's chapter of National Honor Society and is also one of the advisors to the Class of 2019, which will be her third class that she has followed from freshman to senior year. In her16 years of teaching at Arcadia, she has taught various levels of Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra 2, often in inclusive settings. Recently she has been immersed in the Geometry curriculum, teaching and assisting other teachers in their classes. Mrs. Reisinger is married and has three beautiful children. Through the Master Teacher Program, she hopes to model and inspire her own children along with her students that learning never has to end. She is excited to be given the opportunity to learn new areas of math and science that she can bring back to the classroom.
Matthew Riccione earned his BA in Spanish and Elementary/Special Education, and MS in TESOL from Nazareth College, and National Board Certification in 2017. He studied abroad in Spain and served in Haiti with the Peace Corps. Mr. Riccione believes that discovery-based Learning is the core of developmentally appropriate practice because it allows students to be in control of their learning through hands-on exploration and inquiry. He was excited to share his passion for constructivist learning when he started teaching, and currently teaches second grade. Mr. Riccione also has experience teaching preschool, first and third grades, English as a New Language (ENL), and Spanish. Mr. Riccione has participated in many professional learning opportunities on child math development, and focuses his instruction on concrete discovery of critical patterns in number. He has led staff development on technology locally and for TESOL International Association, and has served on Fairport's Technology Vision Team, writing curriculum and facilitating district staff development initiatives. Mr. Riccione co-created Fairport's K-2 ENL Summer School focusing on math, science and discovery-based learning as a catalyst for language acquisition, and tailored the program to meet the needs of families struggling to access digital learning during the pandemic. He has been advisor for cooking, games, Lego and Harry Potter clubs. Mr. Riccione is happily married, has three children, a black belt in TaeKwonDo, runs marathons and hopes to make a guitar. He believes that being a learner makes him a better teacher, and he looks forward to learning as a Master Teacher.
Nicholas Ripple earned his BS in Elementary Education in STEM and Instructional Technology from St. John Fisher College and his MSEd in K-8 Science from Walden University. With 16 years in the classroom, Mr. Ripple spent his first 7 years in Avoca Central School and the past 9 years in Livonia Middle/High School. He currently teaches primarily 6th grade science. He advises the Middle School E3 Science Fair Club, coaches basketball and track & field, has acted as the 6th grade team leader for many years. Additionally, he has been a part of the building planning team. Mr. Ripple puts his focus into getting students excited about science and making learning fun by getting hands-on with an inquiry-based approach. He loves sports and the outdoors and shares this passion with his wife and three young children. Mr. Ripple is looking forward to new learning opportunities and collaborating with fellow NYS Master Teachers to strengthen his science instruction in the classroom and increase scientific involvement in the community.
Richelle Ritz earned her BA in Childhood Education from SUNY Fredonia and MSEd in Literacy from CUNY's Hunter College. She is also certified in Special Education. In the classroom for seven years, Miss Ritz teaches kindergarten at Florence Brasser Elementary School. Outside of the classroom, Miss Ritz has served on the Building Equity team, as Student Council advisor, and run several afterschool clubs. Richelle can often be found on the sidelines of her students dance recitals, soccer, and baseball games cheering them on. She likes to take part in volunteering for charitable events. Outside of school, Miss Ritz enjoys skiing, kayaking, hiking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating with peers to bring meaningful and innovative lessons back to her classroom.
Andrea Robertson earned her BS in Animal Science and a MAT from Cornell University. Mrs. Robertson's love of science and the natural world stem from her upbringing on a small dairy and apple farm in Saratoga County. In the classroom from 2009, she has been at Gorham-Middlesex (Marcus Whitman) High School since 2014 where she teaches A.P Biology, Human Anatomy, and Regents Living Environment. She is an alumnus of C.I.B.T., and has participated in several trainings through the Finger Lakes Institute. In the Fall of 2021, Mrs. Robertson was named the Marcus Whitman Teacher of the Year for grades 7-12. During her tenure, she started an Envirothon Team and has cultivated a group of students who want to help reduce the school's impact on the environment. Together, they have helped to implement a three bin recycling and composting program in each of the district's four cafeterias. Recently, her Envirothon Team has helped to divert over 3,000 pounds of plastic waste from the landfill through the TREX recycling program. Mrs. Robertson enjoys spending time skiing, hiking, gardening, and farming with her husband and two young children. She is an aspiring 46er with four mountains remaining in her quest to hike all of the high peaks in the Adirondacks. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Robertson looks forward to collaborating with fellow science teachers to enhance the educational experience of her students.
Adam Robison earned a BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Mathematics Learning and Teaching from Drexel University. He started his teaching career at Naples High School in 2004 with a desire to share his passion for Mathematics and is still working there today. He currently teaches Algebra 2, Gemini Precalculus, Gemini Statistics, and Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB. Being the Math Department Chair and a member of the Professional Development Committee gives Adam a variety of opportunities to learn from and collaborate with his fellow teachers. In the evening, Adam is an adjunct instructor in the Department of Mathematics at Finger Lakes Community College. He recently finished co-authoring an AP Calculus AB/BC review book for the Barron's review company that will be released later this year. Outside the classroom, Adam coaches Varsity Golf, Modified Girls Basketball, and Junior Varsity Baseball. He also assists the Naples Robotics Team, which is a great opportunity to help students apply mathematics. In his spare time, Adam enjoys spending time with family and occasionally sneaking away to play golf. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to expanding his knowledge of STEM content and develop meaningful ways of bringing Mathematics to life for his students.
Katelyn Rockow earned her BS in Childhood and Special Education with an extension in Early Childhood Education from St. John Fisher College, and her MS in English to Speakers of Other Languages from Nazareth College. Mrs. Rockow has spent the majority of her years as a classroom teacher in kindergarten and first grade, and is currently a kindergarten teacher at Brooks Hill Elementary School. She enjoys working closely with English Language Learners and collaborating with her colleagues. Mrs. Rockow has served as a member of the Fairport Technology Vision Team and is currently in the process of becoming trained as a NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Master Educator. She is an active member of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Team in her building and is very passionate about the climate and culture that PBIS instills. In her free time, Mrs. Rockow loves going on adventures with her family. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to have the opportunity to learn and share knowledge within a growing network of educators across the state. She looks forward to incorporating new ideas to enrich her students' educational experiences and continuing to spark their love of learning each day.
Brian Romeo earned his B.A. in Childhood Education from SUNY Fredonia and M.S.Ed. from SUNY Brockport. Currently, Mr. Romeo teaches fifth grade at Florence Brasser Elementary School. He teaches daily lessons in reading, writing, and math, and he is also the content lead for science where he teaches three different sections. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Romeo has served on the Building Literacy team, the Building Leadership team, as Student Council advisor, and, for several years, wrestling coach. He believes in serving his community and has an active role in his neighborhood association as well as his church vestry. Outside of school, Mr. Romeo enjoys boating, snowboarding, camping and hiking the high peaks of the Adirondacks. Mr. Romeo's wife is also a teacher and they are grateful for the time they have together to raise their two beautiful children. He looks forward to collaborating with his peers in the Master Teacher Program so that he can provide innovative and engaging lessons for his students.
Jamie Romeo earned her BA in Mathematics Teaching from Ithaca College and MS in Natural Sciences from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. As an undergraduate, she studied abroad in London taking classes about London Theater, British Art & Architecture, and Musical culture. In the classroom since 2004 at Greece Odyssey Academy, Mrs. Romeo currently teaches Intermediate Algebra courses, serves as the Twilight Program Math Coordinator, and leads the Math department. She has also been co-advisor to 9th -12th grade classes, volleyball coach and Ski club advisor. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Romeo has attended International Baccalaureate conferences in Montreal and Florida. She is an avid skier and enjoys watersports and hiking in the Adirondacks. As a co-leader for Girl Scouts, Mrs. Romeo is passionate about teaching girls to travel and appreciate the outdoors. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to engaging in Professional Learning Teams to deepen and broaden her understanding of mathematics and engineering and bringing these opportunities back to her classroom.
Kathy Roncinske has a BS in Business Administration/Marketing from Le Moyne College and MS in Elementary Education from Nazareth College. She has taught second grade at Dudley Elementary School since 2003. Kathy is an active leader in her school district serving as a regular curriculum writer, Fairport Educators Association building rep, participant on various committees including the Curriculum Council, Elementary Council, and PTA representative. She regularly volunteers for charitable endeavors such as the First Book booth at Fairport Canal Days, the spelling bee, angel tree, and filling backpacks with back-to-school donations. Kathy can often be seen attending her students' little league, soccer, karate, lacrosse dance, and gymnastics events, and has been a judge for the Odyssey of the Mind competitions. As a STEM teacher, Kathy is most passionate about creating excitement, passion, and wonder for her students and instructing them on tools they can use to discover answers and create more questions. Kathy sent her second child off to college this year and is hoping for more time to read, cook, exercise, and visit friends. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to interactions with secondary teachers to help frame her instruction. She hopes to experience professional development that challenges her thinking and abilities in order to energize the second half of her teaching career.
Aimee Rose earned her BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo. At Honeoye Central School for 13 years, she teachers Pre-Calculus and Geometry. Mrs. Rose is also an adjunct lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at SUNY Geneseo. Mrs. Rose is a strong advocate of applied mathematics. To illustrate this passion, she involves her students in labs and projects to investigate relationships between math and the real world. Her professional interests focus on applied matrix techniques. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she serves as the co-chair of the Wellness Team and is a member of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS. Mrs. Rose was honored with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching at SUNY Geneseo.
Mrs. Rose believes that NYS Master Teachers' dedication and passion for teaching STEM inspires students because, in the words of Walt Disney, they "get a good idea and stay with it. Dog it, and work at it until it's done, and done right."
Kimberly Roundy earned her BS in Biology Secondary Education from SUNY Cortland with a minor in Chemistry and MSEd in Secondary Education Biology from Binghamton University. She started her science teaching career in Deposit Central School Didstrict in 1999 where she coached soccer, volleyball, basketball and track. In 2002, Kim moved and was employed with Penfield CSD, where she has taught Living Environment, Chemistry, and Forensics. She has served as the advisor for three startup clubs: Random Acts of Kindness, Habitat for Humanity, and the Fishing Club. She was an original member of the district technology committee and a current member of the K‐12 Science Steering committee. Kim also serves on the Career day, STEM, and Wellness committees. In 2014, Kim took on a leadership role as the department chair for the science department. Outside of school, she is a member of both National Science Teachers Association and Science Teachers Association of NYS. She is a board member of the Iron Angel Foundation, which raises money to support local community members that have faced hardships. Kimberly is active within her church, and travels and camps with her two children, Alaina and DJ. Kim loves hiking in the ADK and Catskills, and enjoys learning the sport of fly fishing. As a NYS Master Teacher, Kim looks forward to working with a wonderful group of professionals.
Nate Ruder earned his BS in Geological Sciences from Notre Dame, Certification for Secondary Education from the University of Utah, and his MSEd in Earth Science Secondary Education from SUNY Brockport. Nate has achieved National Board Certification for Teachers. He has taught for a total of 15 years, with 14 years at Fairport Central School District. He is currently teaching Earth Science and Biology. He has earned the Betsy Exnor award for his advocacy for Fairport Schools. His passion is discovering how students learn and helping students realize that they can understand difficult things. He has facilitated many professional development opportunities for teachers on a wide variety of topics including educational technology, classroom instruction strategies, and time management. Mr. Ruder volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America and in many positions as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoys outdoor adventures including camping, making maple syrup, and hiking, with his wife and five children. He looks forward to enlarging his professional circle through the Master Teacher Program and learning through fellow teachers' experiences.
Kimberly Saccardi earned her BS in elementary education with a science concentration at Ohio University, and MS in Math Science & Technology St. John Fisher College. Mrs. Saccardi taught 7th & 8th grade science in Ohio before moving to Rochester, NY and has been teaching at Newark Middle School since 2008. She currently teaches 6th grade science but has taught 8th grade science, 6th grade math and 6th grade STEM. She is the science department leader for the Newark Middle School and sits on the Council for Curriculum and Instruction. She also teaches an extended school day program at Newark Middle School. In addition to her primary job, she is also a mentor teacher for the T3 SMART Start Grant through the University of Rochester. She believes students who are passionate about STEM issues will be become informed citizens and agents of change. She believes the key to a fulfilling life is possible through a deep understanding of the physical and natural world. Mrs. Saccardi is an active member of both STANYS and NSTA and has presented at both conferences. She is looking forward to making personal and professional connections with other STEM teachers through the Master Teacher Program. She is looking forward to deepening her understanding of current scientific issues and being able to turn that into engaging instruction for her scientists in her classroom. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son, cooking, gardening, fossil hunting and visiting with family.
Randall Saffer earned his BA in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Mathematics in Secondary Education from SUNY Brockport. Currently, he teaches math in the Greece Central School District at Olympia in Greece, NY. Teaching since 2005, Mr. Saffer has taught Algebra 1, Geometry, Study Skills AIS, Bridge to Geometry, AVID Algebra 1, and an Algebra 1 Regents Exam Preparation course. He has helped lead new school-based and district-wide initiatives, such as an ESOL Newcomers program, an Algebra 1 learning recovery course, a mathematics curriculum writing professional development, and a new study skills course. Mr. Saffer has also been a member of various committees in his district, including a building structures committee, a vertical math team, content-based collegial circles, a structured study hall committee, and a district digital innovation team. Ever since volunteering as a math tutor in high school, Mr. Saffer has found a passion in helping others to embrace a growth mindset and develop confidence within the subject. He is an active member of his school community, having chaperoned extracurricular activities such as ski club, chess club, and game club. Outside of school, Mr. Saffer enjoys playing volleyball and hockey, going golfing and skiing, and participating in his newest hobby, paramotoring. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Saffer is excited to meet other passionate educators, share pedagogical ideas, and participate in engaging content-based activities.
Kyle Salisbury earned his B.A. in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science from Saint Francis University and M.S. in Education from Nazareth College. At Midlakes High School since 1994, Mr. Salisbury has taught Geometry, Algebra I, Intro to Computer Programming in C++, Algebra 2/Trig, as well as dual enrollment courses with AP Calculus AB/Gemini Calculus, Gemini Data Structures, Gemini Website Design, and Gemini Intro to Computer Programming in Java. Outside of the classroom at Midlakes, Mr. Salisbury currently serves as an Assistant Junior Class advisor, member of the Theatre Awards committee, the theatre production photographer, and the varsity boys' volleyball coach where he has won seven sectional titles and fifteen league titles. He has coached multiple championship-winning high school and collegiate level teams, including the Men's Volleyball team at Nazareth College for the past 16 years where he has helped the team reach the NCAA DIII National Championship twice, the NCAA Final Four twice, and the NCAA Elite Eight once. Mr. Salisbury a lifetime dog enthusiast shares his Clifton Springs home with Zuma, a German Wirehair Pointer, Murphy, an Irish Wolfhound, and Chester, a Hungarian Wirehair Vizsla. Mr. Salisbury is looking forward to expanding his knowledge of STEM content as a Master Teacher, and sharing what he learns with the teachers and students at Midlakes.
Caitlin Sarantis earned her BA in Mathematics and her MS in Inclusive Childhood/Middle Childhood Education from Nazareth University. During 2019-2023, Caitlin developed her practice as a Digitally Rich Teacher and Teacher Leader in a National Science Foundation Noyce Fellowship, lead by the Center for Professional Development and Education Reform at Warner School for Education at the University of Rochester. Over the course of the 5 years, Miss Sarantis earned advanced certificates in Teacher Leadership, Digitally-Rich Teaching in K-12 Schools, School District Leadership, and School Building Leadership through the University of Rochester's Center for Professional Learning and Educational Reform. Miss Sarantis began her teaching career in the fall of 2015. Over the course of her time in education, Miss Sarantis has served as a math interventionist for students in grades 3-5 and a 6th grade classroom math and science teacher. Miss Sarantis is currently teaching 6th grade math and science in the Victor Intermediate School. Miss Sarantis loves working with her students and exploring ways to engage students in math and science learning. When she is not teaching, Miss Sarantis loves spending quality time cheering on the Buffalo Bills with her husband and their Boston Terrier, Bugsby. As a Master Teacher, Miss Sarantis is looking forward to the opportunity to build relationships with other Master Teachers in the region. In addition, she is excited for the opportunity to build upon both her content and pedagogical knowledge of science and mathematics, so as to enhance learning experiences for her students.
DIane Savoie completed her associate's degree from Monroe Community College in Liberal Arts with a certificate in Human Services. She graduated from SUNY Empire State College with a BS in Mathematics. Shortly afterwards, she attained her Master’s Degree from SUNY Empire State College in Secondary Education. While teaching at Geneva High School, she completed the NOYCE Fellowship at the University of Rochester. She earned advanced certificates in K-12 Digitally Rich Teaching and Learning and Teacher Leadership from the University of Rochester. She currently teach Algebra I, Personal Finance, and Accounting I. Ms. Savoie has also taught a local geometry course and a two year Algebra 2 course. Her style of teaching helps students to find their strengths and to to be successful in whatever they want to pursue. She love making math real to her students and being available to help any student. She live in Palmyra, New York with her husband, dog Max, and two cats Sebastian and Mozart. Ms. Savoie is very involved with the AKC rally and trains with Max at least once per week. During the warmer months, she can be found in her vegetable garden. When harvest season arrives her goal is to process vegetables to have healthy, organic produce for her family. She loves finding math in nature. Ms. Savoie is excited to be a Master Teacher and looks forward to collaborating with other like-minded educators.
Scott Schaefer earned his B.A. in History from SUNY Potsdam and M.S. in Elementary Education from Nazareth College. He is a Kindergarten teacher at Lima Primary School where he works to help children build foundations for future success through Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science. His two primary motivations in everything he does are helping others and seeking out adventure. He invented the 100-ring rod to help students better understand place value. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Schaefer writes 8-page books for emergent readers, supervises student teachers, and is a judge for FIRST Lego Robotics and Odyssey of the Mind. He is a big fan of teaching with phenomena and is a regular at math teacher circles. Mr. Schaefer comes from an outdoor experiential education background where he focused on small group dynamics. Mr. Schaefer traveled and studied abroad extensively, and was an opening cast member at Disney's Animal Kingdom in 1998. He currently lives in Honeoye Falls with his loving wife and three beautiful children.
Matthew Schindler earned his B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Notre Dame and his M.A.T. from the University of Portland. In his 18 year of teaching, Mr. Schindler has taught all levels of mathematics from Algebra I to Calculus. He currently teaches AP Calculus BC, Geometry and AP Computer Science A at Brighton High School. While pursuing his Masters, Mr. Schindler participated in a two-year service program, teaching in Macon, GA. After completing his Masters, Mr. Schindler applied his mathematical background as a computer programmer where he coded banking software in Charlotte, NC for Bank of America and in Houston, TX for Bank United. In 2000, he served as the lead programmer for the Automated Clearing House (ACH) software of Bank United. Outside of the classroom, he has served on the Building Technology Committee, creating professional development for the district and piloting various technologies in the classroom. He founded the Programming Club at BHS to provide students interested in programming a peer group with whom to meet, discuss and practice problem solving through algorithmic programming. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Schindler is looking forward to participating in the mini-courses with applications to mathematics and computer programming. He also looks forward to collaborating with and learning from the many accomplished and inspiring professionals in his Master Teacher cohort.
Candace Schneggenburger earned her BS in Biology from Saint John Fisher College, MS in Biology from Boston College, and Master of Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. An educator for 18 years, she teaches Regents Chemistry at Palmyra-Macedon High School. A passionate chemistry teacher that advocates of the value of hard work, Mrs. Schneggenburger involves her students in Process-Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning, a student-centered teaching strategy pioneered by college chemistry departments to develop critical thinking, problem solving, communication, cooperation and reflection skills. Her professional interests include learning about scientific discoveries and pedagogical ideas, and furthering interdisciplinary collaboration among her peers. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Schneggenburger has served on the Palmyra-Macedon High School Building Team and the Communications Committee for the implementation of International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP). She is the District Lead Science Teacher for Palmyra-Macedon Central School District, and member of Science Teachers Association of NYS, National Science Teachers Association and the steering committee for the Finger Lakes STEM Hub. In 2012 she was honored with the Rochester Area Chemistry Teacher of the Year Award by the American Chemical Society.
Steven Schultz earned his B.S. in Elementary Education with a concentration in Science from SUNY Fredonia and M.S. in Instructional Technology from Nazareth College. He began teaching over twenty years ago at the primary grades. Mr. Schultz is currently an enrichment specialist and technology teacher at William C. Munn Elementary School in Spencerport. Throughout his career he has served on many committees such as Professional Development, School-Wide Enrichment, Building Planning Team, and has been a mentor to new teachers. Outside of school, he and his wife are busy raising three children and he has volunteered his technology skills to help youth organizations maintain and run their websites. In his free time he loves being outdoors. Each summer, his family and close friends are off hiking the High Peaks of the Adirondacks or taking trips to our national parks. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Schultz is looking forward to working with colleagues on improving his teaching of STEM and inspiring children to follow their passions.
Paul Sedita earned his BS in Astrophysics from Penn State University and MS in Science Education from SUNY Brockport. He teaches International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement and Regents Physics at Canandaigua Academy. An educator for 24 years with a strong belief in presenting science and physics from a variety of perspectives, Mr. Sedita encourages his students to question and appreciate how concepts and models of physics integrate with their personal experiences as well as the larger world around them. His professional interests center on research programs that allow him and his students to take a hands-on approach to science. These include participation in Master Classes at the University of Rochester, work at the Department of Education's fusion lab in Princeton, NJ, and ongoing research with muon detectors through QuarkNet, a national program sponsored by the National Science Foundation promoting collaboration between PhD physicists and high school physics teachers and students. Mr. Sedita has presented at the annual meeting of the American Physical Society, and plans on developing curriculum for the MINERvA experiment at Fermilab, America's premier national laboratory for particle physics research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Erin Shaw earned her BA in Secondary Education Math from Plattsburgh State, MS in Educational Technology from Nazareth College, and National Board Certification in Adolescent Mathematics. In 2016, Erin received the National Honor Society Teacher of the Year and was also awarded Teacher of the Year by her peers. Erin began teaching in 2001 and was inspired to become a math teacher to help students have a better experience in math class. She believes that every student can achieve a higher level of math when the curriculum is challenging and engaging. Miss Shaw teaches Geometry, Math Explorations and Precalculus at Rush Henrietta Senior High School, where she is also a member of the Instructional Support Team and Technology Team, and has served as an Instructional Math Coach. As a STEM teacher, she is always trying to help students see and understand how math is used in the real world. In her free time, she enjoys biking, kayaking, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family. As a NYS Master Teacher, Miss Shaw looks forward to networking with other teachers and participating in mini-courses.
Brian Sheldon earned his BA in Geology from SUNY Geneseo, and MS in Geochemistry from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Mr. Sheldon's move into teaching was a career shift after two years as an Environmental Technician at Oak Ridge Tennessee, and six years as a manager in the Garden Center industry in Salt Lake City, Utah. In the classroom for 10 years, Mr. Sheldon teaches Regents Earth Science, Honors Earth Science, and is currently enjoying his second opportunity teaching Advanced Placement Environmental Science. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Sheldon has served on the Building Advisement Team, and as Advisor for the Juggling Club, and Class Advisor for the Class of 2010. He is especially proud of his organizational roles in offering student-volunteer flood recovery efforts to New Orleans in 2010, and three trips to Owego, NY following tropical storms Irene and Lee in 2012. Outside school, Mr. Sheldon enjoys coaching soccer, spending time with his family, and pursuing his hobby of flatpicking guitar in a local bluegrass band. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Sheldon looks forward to participating in professional learning teams, and learning ways to bring Geographic Information Systems and Citizen Science into the classroom.
Craig D. Smith earned his BA with Honors in Mathematical Economic Analysis from Rice University, his MA in Economics from Michigan State University, and his MA in Mathematics Education from New York University. As an undergraduate, he spent a semester studying the European Union in Germany and a semester studying transition economies in Austria. As a graduate student, Mr. Smith conducted research in the former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan. An educator for 25 years, Mr. Smith has taught a variety of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and economics courses at the Tashkent State Economics University (Uzbekistan), Michigan State University, New York University, SUNY Geneseo, and Harrison High School. Currently, Mr. Smith teaches Geometry, Transition to College Mathematics and Statistics, and Multivariate Calculus at Brighton High School. In the evening, he teaches courses in economics at the Rochester Institute of Technology and online courses for the Finger Lakes Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). Mr. Smith's professional interests focus on dynamic geometry software and mastery-based learning systems. He is a member of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State.
Dustin Smith graduated as the Salutatorian from Cincinnatus Central School, earned his BA in mathematics from Nazareth College, and his MA in mathematics education from Western Governors University. Mr. Smith was inducted into Pi Mu Epsilon - New York Alpha Eta Chapter while at Nazareth College and graduated Cum Laude. He also achieved National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Mathematics. Mr. Smith holds certifications to teach mathematics and students with disabilities. Additionally, he is a Google for Education Certified Educator. Since 2008, he has taught in both South Carolina and New York. Mr. Smith teaches Algebra Honors, Math 8, and Essentials Math for students with disabilities at Johanna Perrin Middle School in the Fairport Central School District. Mr. Smith is a boys' volleyball coach and avid golfer. He enjoys learning about new educational technology and the different ways these tools can be successfully implemented into modern classrooms. He looks forward to the opportunities this program affords, such as collaborating with other STEM teachers and discussing contemporary teaching methods. Mr. Smith looks forward to participating in the many professional development opportunities made available by the NYS Master Teacher Program, including meeting and mentoring pre-service mathematics educators.
Jamie Smith earned her B.S. in Adolescent Education and M.A. in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport. As a Greece Teacher for 13 years, Mrs. Smith has served the district in a variety of capacities but is currently teaching two IB Mathematics Higher Level courses at Greece Odyssey Academy as well as AIS. She also serves as a Teacher Leader for Social Emotional Learning in the building. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Smith serves on the School Improvement Team, Guardians of Equity, PBIS, homeroom and Scheduling committees. She is also the 9th grade Class Advisor and Rotary Interact advisor. Outside of school, she spends time with her husband of 20 years and three children as well as chasing down her escape artist of a dog. She also enjoys playing the clarinet in her local community band. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Smith is looking forward to meeting with colleagues around the state to promote STEM fields, especially for girls and students of color.
Les Smith earned his BS in Earth Science from California University of Pennsylvania and his MS in Science Education from SUNY Brockport. He has been employed as an educator in the Gananda Middle School since January 2002. He first found his passion for science by pursuing a love of meteorology. His desire to help students experience and understand the natural world led him to enter the teaching profession. Mr. Smith encourages all students to be curious about the world and to explore their interests as much as possible. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is active as a track coach, driver education instructor, chaperone, and district technology resource. Over his career, he has coached boys/girls cross country, basketball, and swimming. He has served as a mentor teacher and been active in his local union as treasurer and as a member of the negotiations team. Mr. Smith enjoys getting to know his students and their families. His personal interests include running, hiking, cycling, and disc golf. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Smith is looking forward to sharing information with colleagues and being able to use his new knowledge and experiences to enhance his students' education.
Melissa Smith earned her BA in Anthropology and Archaeology from SUNY Buffalo and her MSEd from Canisius College. Mrs. Smith has been in the classroom for 14 years, all of which have been at Pembroke Jr./Sr. High School. She currently teaches 7th and 8th Grade Science and has previously taught Regents Chemistry. She serves as a yearbook advisor, musical choreographer, and science department chairperson. A member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS and NYS Association for Computers and Technology in Education, she loves to incorporate technology in her teaching and has presented to her colleagues on a variety of technology tools for the classroom. She strives to be an active participant in the STEM movement and is passionate about increasing interest in STEM subjects among elementary and middle school students, especially girls, and helped organize her school district's first annual STEAM Night. Outside of school, she is a dance teacher and Barre fitness instructor, and enjoys spending time with her family. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Smith looks forward to the wide variety of professional development opportunities. She is honored and excited to be among such an inspiring group of teachers and looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm for science education.
Samantha Speed-Line earned her BS in math and Special Education from Geneseo State University and MS in Inclusive Math Education from Nazareth College. Mrs. Speed-Line has been a math and Special Education teacher in the Rush-Henrietta Central School District for five years. As a team member at the Alternative High School, she teaches Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Trigonometry, Math Explorations, Math Finance, Topics in Math Standards, and Pre-Calculus. At school, Mrs. Speed-Line serves as a member of the Teacher Center Policy Board and the Collegial Coaching Committee, helping to ensure that all new teachers in the Rush-Henrietta District have support and encouragement during their first year. She is also the Union Representative in her building and a member of the Positive Behavior and Intervention Supports (PBIS) team. When not in the classroom, Mrs. Speed-Line spends a majority of her time working as a costume designer for the musical at an area high school and traveling to Disney World with her husband. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Speed-Line is looking forward to participating in courses which highlight methods of integrating literacy into math education, as well as collaborating with other Master Teachers who work in an alternative education setting.
Elizabeth Spry received her BS in Biomedical Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology and her MS in Inclusive Adolescent Education from Nazareth College. Mrs. Spry began teaching in 2012 and was inspired to become a Living Environment teacher after performing various jobs and internships based around animal science. She is currently teaching Anatomy and Physiology and Forensic Science at Penfield High School. Mrs. Spry is passionate about making connections across the STEM disciplines and bringing those connections into her elective science courses. Mrs. Spry is an advisor for the PHS fishing club. Outside of school, Mrs. Spry is a semi-professional chainsaw carver and enjoys spending time outdoors. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Spry is looking forward to all of the collaboration and investigation into best practices amongst fellow Master Teachers.
Chris Stahl earned his B.S. and M.S. in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego, C.A.S. from SUNY Brockport in School District Administrator, C.A.S. from Brockport in School Administrator/Supervisor, and Vehicle Mechanical Repair Certificate, required to teach Vocational Automotive Classes. Mr. Stahl has always been interested in what makes things work, which has inspired him to become a Technology Teacher. In the classroom for 27 years, Mr. Stahl teaches Automotive and Woodworking at Fairport High School, and is currently the advisor for the Automotive, and Ski Clubs. He also works closely with the Fairport High School’s “Students United with NASA to Create Hardware” (HUNCH) program. Mr. Stahl is a NYS Drivers Education Instructor, a NYS Boating Instructor, past Monroe County Technology Education Association President, past Board member for the NYS Technology Education Association, and was inducted into the Fairport Central School District’s “Wall of Distinction.” He loves the outdoors, spending time with his family, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing and boating. As a NYS Master Teacher he is excited to work with other educators to bring their knowledge back to his students and school.
Holly Stekl earned her A.S. in Environmental Studies at Finger Lakes Community College, B.S. in Environmental Forest Biology from SUNY ESF, and M.A.T. in Biology from SUNY Cortland. She continued her education at Montana State University to complete graduate work towards her Earth Science Certification. Mrs. Stekl started her 10-year teaching career in Elmira before finding her way home to Romulus Central School. She currently teaches Regents Earth Science, College Biology, Fisheries and Wildlife, and a field course titled Forest Ecology and Management. She serves as an advisor for the Envirothon Team, Travel Club, Outdoor Club, and Class Advisor. Mrs. Stekl's primary goal as an educator is to encourage students to develop an appreciation and understanding for the natural world. Mrs. Stekl was named Finger Lakes Community College’s Conservation Department Alumni of the year in 2016 for her work connecting students with nature. She is inspired by the words of Baba Dioum, a forestry engineer from Senegal: “In the end, we will conserve only what we love and we will love only what we understand”. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to collaborating with other content area teachers to deepen and broaden her knowledge of content and pedagogy.
Kyra Stephenson earned her BA in Integrative Studies with a concentration in Conservation Biology from George Mason University and her MS in Science Education from the Warner Graduate School of Education at the University of Rochester. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Stephenson worked on a Trumpeter Swan Migration project outside Buffalo, NY. During the project, she visited local schools, ultimately finding her passion in engaging students in science education. A teacher for 15 years, she has taught Regents level and elective science courses, and currently teaches middle school science at Greece Olympia School. She is the founder of S.P.A.C.E. (Stephenson Plant and Animal Care Experience) Club where at risk students share responsibility for various classroom plants and animals. Through grants, she purchased Tower Gardens to support life science education and provide fresh greens for students in partnership with her school's food pantry. Mrs. Stephenson serves as a high school class co-advisor. In her free time, she's a docent at the Seneca Park Zoo, participates in citizen science, devotes time to her favorite outdoor pastimes, and shuttles her children to their various activities. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to making connections and collaborating with other educators, as well as participating in rewarding professional development.
Carly Stevenson earned her BS in Biology from SUNY Cortland and her MSEd from Roberts Wesleyan College in 7-12 Living Environment and Special Education. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Stevenson was an Environmental Educator through the Student Conservation Association and a Wildlife Technician. Both of these experiences allowed her to motivate young people to appreciate science and nature which in turn inspired her to become a teacher. Mrs. Stevenson teaches middle school and high school science at Geneseo Central School. She is also a special education teacher for the BOCES 2 regional summer school program. Mrs. Stevenson's goal is to inspire the same passion in her students by encouraging them to explore the natural wonders of their local area outside of the regular school day. To accomplish this she uses relevant and local information to drive her instruction, allowing students to access prior knowledge of past life experiences in order to make sense of the world around them. Outside the classroom, she is the Middle School Science Club advisor, MS and HS Student Council co-advisor, and a modified and Junior Varsity coach. In her free time Mrs. Stevenson, is an avid bird watcher who loves to hike, camp, and explore new places
Brienne Stratton earned her BA in Biology from SUNY Geneseo and MSEd from SUNY Oswego. In the classroom since 2005, she currently teaches Regents Living Environment and AP Biology at Midlakes High School. She has also taught Science 7, Science 8, and Gemini (FLCC) Biology at North Rose-Wolcott CSD. Ms. Stratton is excited about the transition to the new science standards. The storylines, problem solving, and collaboration among students has increased their interest in the subject. Beyond her teaching responsibilities at Midlakes, Ms. Stratton is the high school yearbook advisor. Outside of the classroom Ms. Stratton enjoys spending time with her two children, running and hiking. As a new NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to expanding her STEM content knowledge and collaborating with her peers.
Lauren Stucki earned her BS in Childhood Education with an extension in Early Childhood Education and her MS is Reading and Literacy B-12 from SUNY Geneseo. Mrs. Stucki started her career in 2011 as a preschool teacher at the Rochester Museum and Science Center. In 2013 she became a classroom teacher for third grade at Northside Elementary School. Throughout her career, she has served on many committees such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Building Advisory Team, Equity and Access and has been a mentor to new teachers. She also enjoys hosting student teachers from local colleges. Mrs. Stucki has recently become a NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Master Educator. Outside of school, Mrs. Stucki enjoys attending extra curricular events for her students and has been a judge for Odyssey of the Mind for many years. Mrs. Stucki currently lives in Fairport with her husband and two daughters. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating with educators that share her passion for STEAM, bringing new knowledge back to the classroom and showing students the importance of being a lifelong learner!
Bryan Swanson earned his B.A. in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego and M.S. in Multi-Disciplinary Studies from Rochester Institute of Technology. Through RIT, he gained five Project Lead the Way certifications: Gateway to Technology, Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, and Civil Engineering and Architecture. Mr. Swanson teaches eighth grade Introduction to Technology, along with two special education technology classes at Cosgrove Middle School in Spencerport. He serves on the Technology Advisory Committee, is Head Advisor for the Cosgrove Ski Club, and organizes and cooks a BBQ benefit for staff which has raised thousands of dollars for local charities. Past experiences include serving as Advisor for the Electrathon Club, Technology Club, and Morning Show, and as a member of the Interview Committee. Bryan enjoys the outdoors by coaching youth soccer, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and camping. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to the learning opportunities the program has to offer and collaborating with other STEM Master Teachers to create new and engaging curriculum.
Adam Sweeney earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University at Buffalo and M.A.T. from SUNY Empire State College. Mr. Sweeney spent ten years working in engineering before discovering his passion for teaching. Mr. Sweeney has taught for seven years, the past five at Penfield High School. He currently teaches AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Physic C: Electricity & Magnetism, and Honors Physics with Optics. He serves as the assistant coach Science Olympiad Team, advises the strategy games club, member of his district's K-12 Science Steering Committee, and organizer and coordinator for elementary activities such as STEM club and Science Night. One of Mr. Sweeney's professional focuses is introducing students to Rochester's rich field of Optics. The Honors Physics with Optics class he teaches offers dual credit with Monroe Community College's Introduction to Optical Technology course. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Sweeney spends his time with his wife and two children. He is also an avid gamer, especially board and video games. As a Master Teacher, Mr. Sweeney is excited to collaborate with passionate teachers and improve his instruction.
Ann Marie Swilley earned her BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education at SUNY Geneseo and her MA in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport on a teaching assistantship. She has taught for 28 years, 10 years at Nazareth Academy, and the remainder at Brighton High School. While at Brighton, Mrs. Swilley taught all levels of Mathematics from Algebra 1 through AP Calculus AB, including ICT, Regents and Honors. She currently teaches Geometry Honors, AP Calculus AB, Data Science and Discrete Math. She has served on the Wellness and Curriculum Council committee as well as many others. Mrs. Swilley served as a mentor teacher to three math teachers in the department and a lead teacher while implementing the Common Core Standards. She is the coach for the mathletes on the Brighton Math Team, attends games to see her students succeed outside of the classroom and chaperones school dances. Outside of school, Mrs. Swilley sings at church and is the cantor at many masses. As a beginning quilter, she loves to use her creativity to see math, geometry, and color come together in fabric. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Swilley is interested in working with pre-service teachers and looking forward to learning from STEM experts to help her make math relevant and accessible to all students.
Toni Lynn Swinson earned her BA from SUNY Geneseo in mathematics with a minor in psychology, MSEd from SUNY Binghamton in Special Education, and is dual certified in 7-12 Mathematics and 7-12 Special Education. In the classroom for 15 years, she currently teaches Algebra at Webster Schroeder High School. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she is the NYS Math League Treasurer, Class Advisor to the Class of 2015 and a math tutor. Mrs. Swinson is a member of the Brooks Fleet Feet Racing Team, a USA Track & Field team. Always a runner, three years ago she started running long distances and ran her first half marathon in 2012 and first marathon in 2013. Since then she has completed 14 half marathons and 5 full marathons and is hoping to qualify for the Boston Marathon someday. Mrs. Swinson is looking forward to working with other NYS Master Teachers and is excited to be part of an AMAZING 4-year program.
Kristina Sykes earned her BA in biology and chemistry from SUNY Geneseo and MA in Secondary Science Education from New York University. She currently holds NYS licensure in Biology/General Science 7-12 and Chemistry/General Science 7-12. Mrs. Sykes has been in the classroom for 13 years, starting out teaching at University Neighborhood High School in lower Manhattan. She currently teaches at Victor Senior High School in the Finger Lakes Region. Inside her classroom, Mrs. Sykes is dedicated to bringing chemistry alive through exciting demonstrations and handmade manipulatives. She is also focusing on becoming a content and peer coach. Mrs. Sykes' hobbies are gardening and being a mom to her two girls. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Sykes is looking forward to continuing as member of the Regents Chemistry Professional Learning Team and her growth as content and peer coach.
Mike Szczepanik earned his BS in Biology from SUNY Geneseo, and MS in Science Education from SUNY Brockport. Mr. Szczepanik has taught Living Environment and Advanced Placement Biology at Hilton High School for 19 years. Mr. Szczepanik enjoys fitness, especially running and is the Girls Track and Cross Country Coach at Hilton High School. He is an active member in the Science Teachers Association of NYS, the National Association for Biology Teachers, the National Science Teachers Association, and the Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers. Mr. Szczepanik is also a Google Certified Educator who integrates technology and "flips the classroom" so that class time can be spent on hands-on and inquiry based activities. Mr. Szczepanik spends his free time with his two year old twin boys, and wife exploring, playing and being active. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers, and extending his current knowledge in various fields of science and teaching pedagogy.
Holly Taylor earned her AS in Criminal Justice from SUNY Canton, BA in Chemistry from SUNY Oswego, and a MS in Education from Roberts Wesleyan. She has continued her education by taking courses at SUNY Brockport and SUNY Empire State in order to pursue an Earth Science certification; she is state certified in Chemistry and Students with Disabilities (7-12). Prior to teaching Ms. Taylor worked in an environmental chemistry lab. In 2009, she went back to school to become a teacher and earned her Master's in 2010. She started teaching in the Rochester City School District in 2009 and is currently teaching chemistry and earth science at School Without Walls. Throughout her teaching career, Ms. Taylor has been an advisor for the robotics club and also participates in the School Based Planning Team. She has earned the Outstanding HEART Award and the “I Believe” Certificate of Recognition for her dedication to her students. In her free time Ms. Taylor volunteers on the board for the Midlakes Junior Eagles and is a basketball coach for the local YMCA youth program. She was drawn to the field of STEM at an early age and was inspired by watching Bill Nye and hearing his catchphrase, “Science Rules”. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Taylor looks forward to learning more about the topics related to geology in NYS and relating new knowledge to the NGSS to bring back to her classroom. She is excited for this opportunity to expand on her knowledge and share what she knows.
Donna Timmons earned her BS in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University. After a 25-year career at the Eastman Kodak Company, she joined the education community as a Chemistry Teacher in the Greece Central School District. She earned her MS in Science Education from the University of Rochester, and National Board Certification in Adolescent and Young Adult Science. In her 12 years of teaching, she has coached the Greece Arcadia Science Olympiad Team and served on the District Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Technology (STEAM) Team. She is also a member of the American Association of Chemistry Teachers and is active in educational research through the SUNY Brockport "Making it Stick" project. A licensed Professional Engineer, she is passionate about connecting classroom concepts to real-world applications. She is inspired by the unique talents and creativity of each of her students, and especially enjoys hearing from graduates as they make their way in the world. Outside of school, she is an avid cyclist and cherishes time outdoors. Ms. Timmons feels that she has "found her tribe", and looks forward to learning from the community of NYS Master Teachers. Her favorite quote is "Never stop learning, because life never stops teaching."
Noreen Tobon earned her B.S. in Elementary Education with an emphasis on mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and her M.S. in Elementary Education from SUNY Brockport. In the Rochester City School District for 25 years, Mrs. Tobon has taught grades 2-5, and currently teaches 3rd grade at Henry Lomb #20. She serves on the School-Based Planning Team, has been a member of the Leadership Team, a Rochester Teacher Association representative, and Mentor Teacher in the District. Mrs. Tobon enjoys gardening, reading, piano, and tap dancing outside of school. She is a math aficionado and strives to encourage her students to also be enthusiastic about the subject. Mrs. Tobon is looking forward to learning about science and math-related resources in the community and planning learning experiences with her colleagues in the NYS Master Teacher Program. She also looks forward to deepening and broadening her knowledge of all aspects of the STEM field so she can bring that information back to her students.
Jeffrey Ugine earned his BS in Biology and Master of Arts in Teaching from Cornell University. In 2002, Mr. Ugine began his teaching career as a member of the US Peace Corps where he taught biology in Mozambique, Africa for two years. Mr. Ugine then landed at James A. Beneway in Ontario, New York where he spent the next ten years teaching Living Environment, Advanced Placement Biology, and International Baccalaureate Biology. Inspired by his high school biology teacher's passion for science and sports, Mr. Ugine initiated the boys lacrosse program at James A. Beneway in 2009. Once again bitten by the travel bug, Mr. Ugine recently spent two years in Rome, Italy teaching biology at the American Overseas School of Rome with his wife and two children. Since his return, he has been an active member of the Cornell Institute for Biology Teacher and the Finger Lakes Institute learning for other professionals in STEM fields. He is most passionate about sharing his eco-friendly life-style with his students and hopes to inspire them to be active community members ready to take on the challenges of a changing world. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Ugine is looking forward to participating in mini-courses to enhance his daily instruction.
Caitlin Ullock earned her BS in biology from Daemen College and MS in Biology Secondary Education from SUNY Geneseo. In the classroom 18 years, Mrs. Ullock teaches Advanced Placement Biology and Living Environment at Pittsford-Mendon Senior High School. She is very passionate about environmental stewardship and conveys her passion by serving as advisor for the Environmental Club. Mrs. Ullock helps coordinate a Science Day for students each spring at St. John Fisher College. This summer, she will be running an Astrobiology Summer Camp for Middle School students at the University of Maryland called "Cosmos on Campus." She is an active member of Science Teachers Association of NYS, National Science Teachers Association, and National Association of Biology Teachers, and has presented at both state and national Conferences. She instills in her students a very simple mantra rooted in the words of Senegalese forestry engineer, Baba Dioum, "In the end we will conserve only what we love. We will love only what we understand. We will understand only what we are taught." As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Ullock is looking forward to collaborating with colleagues regionally and statewide.
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Molly VanOrman earned her BS in Secondary Education in Biology from SUNY Oswego and MS in Education and Human Development in Adolescence Biology at SUNY Brockport. For the past 19 years, she has been teaching Life Science and accelerated Physical Science at Wayne Central School District at the intermediate level. During her time at Wayne Central, Mrs. VanOrman has served as a Science Olympiad coach, team leader, coordinator for a New Teacher Committee, Middle School Science Department Chair and has coordinated many field trips including Expand Your Horizons at Cornell University and STEAMfest in Rochester. With support from her PTO, she organized a Science Now Expo connecting community members, educators, and science and technology businesses in an exploration of STEAM and a variety of related careers. Mrs. VanOrman was awarded an indoor observation honey bee hive that has sparked her passion and creation of the BeeCause Club, inspiring students to become ambassadors for pollinators. Outside the classroom, you will find her spending time with her two boys and husband, baking, and riding ATVs in the trails by her camp. As a Master Teacher, Mrs. VanOrman looks forward to working with others who have a passion for learning, a love of science, and the desire to provide the best experience for their students to enable them to grow to their full potential.
Jennifer Vibber earned her BS in Mathematics Education from Boston University and her MS in Teaching and Curriculum from University of Rochester. Mrs. Vibber teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus BC, Multivariable Calculus, and Geometry at Penfield High School (PHS) near Rochester. She loves drawing her students into lessons using games, puzzles, and even bubble structures. On top of her course load, she is also a Math League advisor for PHS as well as the President of Monroe County Math League and the Head Coach of the Upstate NY Math Team that attends the national American Regions Mathematics League contest each year. Furthermore, she organizes all the American Mathematics Contest exams for her district. Each June, Mrs. Vibber attends the annual AP Calculus Reading in Kansas City and truly enjoys seven full days of Calculus and collaboration with like-minded, self-described math nerds from across the country. Mrs. Vibber's hobbies include board games, reading, and spending time with her husband and two young sons. As a NYS Master Teacher, she has enjoyed all the events and looks forward to more fun during these four years of growth and collaboration.
Wendy Villone earned her BS in Business/Distributive Education from SUNY Oswego and MS in Educational Technology from Nazareth College, as well as completion of a District/Building Leadership program through Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Mrs. Villone worked in the information technology field before becoming a teacher. In her career experience, she has gained knowledge of programming, networking, cybersecurity, and completed an industrial recognized CompTIA A+ Technician certification. Mrs. Villone has been teaching for 17 years for Livonia Central School. As an Information Technology teacher, she is a Cisco Certified Academy Instructor who teaches computer science/programming, computer repair, applications, web design, networking, and cybersecurity. Mrs. Villone is an advisor for Computer, Coding, and Yearbook Clubs. She is also a Teacher Leader and Department Chair, as well as an Instructional Coach for her district. Mrs. Villone is part of the Faculty Council for the National Honor Society, Committee Member of School Safety, and Vice President of Friends of Livonia. Mrs. Villone works as an online coordinator for the Livonia High School's credit recovery program. She enjoys being a lifelong learner and expanding her knowledge as she moves forward every day. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited about engaging and learning from other educators to deepen her content knowledge and pedagogy.
Kim Voss is a science enthusiast who has been a certified teacher in Chemistry and Biology since 2009. She currently teaches at Mendon High School in Pittsford, NY where she strives to cultivate scientifically literate citizens and inspire future scientists. Kim earned her BS in Biology and Minor in Chemistry from St. Bonaventure University, MS in Structural Biology from the University at Buffalo, and MS in Adolescence Education as a specialist in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Rochester. Prior to teaching, Kim worked as a science researcher. At Hauptman-Woodward MRI, Kim’s initiatives involved the characterization of recombinant proteins which culminated with a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. At Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Kim designed experimental strategies and analysis methods for novel therapeutics. Her last position in the lab was as the Technical Director at the University of Rochester’s High-Throughput Screening Core Facility. When Kim switched from research to teaching, she was extensively supported as a Robert Noyce Scholar and Knowles Teaching Fellow. Her collaborations with fellows from around the country enhanced her professional growth and commitment to teaching. Kim has served her school community in capacities ranging from co-chair of the District Technology Planning Team to Senior Activities Advisor. While at Mendon HS, Kim initiated a STEAM Summer Camp and currently serves as co-advisor for the Mendon Environmental Awareness Club. In addition to working with students and colleagues, Kim enjoys being a mom to her two children, finding unique playgrounds and parks, listening to live music and tent camping.
Maria Vowles has a BS in Biology from Syracuse University, a MSEd in Math, Science, Technology Education from St. John Fisher College, and a MS in Biochemistry from St. Joseph University. Mrs. Vowles is certified as a 7-12 general science, biology, and chemistry educator. Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked in biomedical research at SUNY Upstate Medical Center, University of Maine, and University of Rochester. While working at SUNY Upstate, Mrs. Vowles contributed to a paper published in Oncogene. She was awarded an NSF-RET visiting scientist fellowship where she completed research in the biophysics department at the University of Rochester. Mrs. Vowles has been teaching for since 2004 and is currently teaching Living Environment, Forensics, and Alternative Education Chemistry and often teaches IB- SL Biology at Hilton High School. Mrs. Vowles is the president of a non-profit organization, Adventuresinlove4Andie. The organization is dedicated to spreading awareness and educating others about a rare genetic disease, Vascular Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (VEDS) as well as funding patient outreach and higher education scholarships. She is dedicated to this organization because she lost her oldest daughter at age 20 to a VEDS complication. Mrs. Vowles is also a member of the VEDS steering committee of the VEDS Movement (division of the Marfan Foundation). In her free time, she enjoys CrossFit and spending time with her husband and two children. Mrs. Vowles has a passion for working with new and preservice teachers and is excited about joining the preservice PLT group.
Suzanne Wade earned both her BS in Mathematics and Earth Science and MS in Secondary Science Education from SUNY Brockport. She is certified 7-12 in Biology, Earth Science and Mathematics, and has over 20 years of classroom teaching experience. She currently teaches Regents and Honors Living Environment at Brighton High School where her passion for teaching is evident. In addition to teaching, she is a member of the district 6-12 science committee, the Wellness Committee, and serves as class advisor for the Class of 2018. As a creative and motivated teacher, she enjoys working collaboratively to design lessons that break away from traditional teaching models and incorporate innovative, student-centered strategies. Putting the learning directly in the hands of students through inquiry lessons and problem based learning has been one of her missions and she looks forward to working with teachers in the NYS Master Teacher Program to develop authentic learning opportunities that motivate all students. In the fall, she takes on the role of Coach Wade at Gates Chili High School where she coaches Varsity Gymnastics. When not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, doing projects in her home, and is often found on the sidelines of her kids' sporting events.
Shelley Walker earned her BS in Animal Science from Cornell University and her MS in Science Education from St. John Fisher College, and is certified to teach Biology grades 7 - 12. In the classroom for 22 years, Ms. Walker has a passion for science beyond the classroom. She started her teaching career at the Finger Lakes Community College as an adjunct Biology professor and later, in the Rochester City School District. Currently, Ms. Walker teaches Living Environment, Environmental Botany, Food Science, and Chemistry. Ms. Walker possesses an energetic and creative teaching style and believes in strong connections with students, family, and the community. She is the Sophomore Class Advisor and a Hiking Club Advisor, and developed a greenhouse program where students grow vegetable plants for the Geneva community gardens. Ms. Walker enjoys working with science colleagues and members of the Finger Lakes Institute. She helped design a trip to the Montezuma Audubon Center and Science on Seneca boat tour where students experienced the importance of water quality and invasive species removal. Outside of school, Ms. Walker's love of science and horses has led her to become a hoof rehabilitation specialist. She takes part in a variety of educational courses on equine anatomy, biomechanics, diseases, and trimming methods to enhance her ability to help her clients and their horses. Ms. Walker is excited to grow as a professional from the experience she gains through her participation in the New York State Master Teacher program.
Andrew Walter earned his BS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego and MS in Integrating Technology in the Classroom from Walden University. In the classroom for more than 15 years, Mr. Walter shares his passion for STEM through his teaching of Principles of Engineering and Civil Engineering and Architecture, both Project Lead the Way engineering courses. He also serves as the school's International Baccalaureate Career Program coordinator, where he has the privilege of helping students choose and prepare for the world beyond high school. In his personal life, Mr. Walter finds enjoyment in construction and woodworking projects, boating, golfing, and spending time with his supportive wife and two kids. In the winter, you can usually find him shoveling the ice on the backyard pond for skating or curling where he enjoys spending time with family and friends. As a Master Teacher, Mr. Walter is excited to collaborate with other Master Teachers and is looking forward to learning and sharing ideas about new technologies.
Aaron Ward earned his BA in Chemistry from Alfred University and MS Ed. From Buffalo State University in Physics Education. He started teaching in 2015 and is currently teaching Physics at Pittsford Mendon High School. Prior to his current position he taught various Chemistry and Physics courses at the Mount Morris Central and Wayne Central school districts. In addition to teaching, Mr. Ward has served as a coach for the Science Olympiad Team, an advisor for Environmental Club, a member of the district technology committee, and a volunteer with the Boy’s Lacrosse program. Outside of the classroom Mr. Ward loves spending time with his family, golfing, and cooking. In addition to being a fan of the local professional teams, he enjoys learning about the use of advanced statistics and analytics in sports. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Ward is most looking forward to having a network of experienced teachers to collaborate with.
Beth Ward earned her BA in Biology from the University of Rochester and MS in Secondary Education from Loyola Marymount University. Mrs. Ward was inspired to go into education during college when she worked with at-risk youth at Mt. Hope Family Center in Rochester. Post-college she moved to Redondo Beach, California and worked as a tutor and associate director at a Sylvan Learning Center. She began her classroom teaching career in 2004 with Teach for America at Jefferson High School in Los Angeles, working to confront educational inequity in one of the lowest performing school districts in the country. Mrs. Ward now teaches Living Environment and Advanced Placement Biology at Geneseo High School. As a STEM teacher, she is most passionate about opening her students' eyes to the amazing world around them. She is also committed to sustainability and guided her Environmental class to begin a school-wide composting program. Mrs. Ward has coached Cross Country and Track and served as co-advisor to the Middle School Science Club. She is a member of the Science Teachers Association of NYS and was awarded an American Association of Immunologists Fellowship. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Ward is excited about joining her colleagues in the AP Biology and Living Environment Professional Learning Teams, as well as exploring other STEM disciplines. In her spare time, she enjoys running, reading books, and spending time with her family.
Jessica Weber earned her BS in Chemistry from the University of Rochester and her MSEd in Adolescent Education: Chemistry from The Warner School of Education at The University of Rochester. She was awarded a NOYCE Scholarship for being a STEM major planning to work in underserved communities. Ms. Weber began her teaching career at East High School in Rochester city, where she worked in an integrated co- taught General Chemistry classroom focusing on making science learning accessible to students with all levels of language, reading, and writing abilities. Ms. Weber currently teaches Regents Chemistry and Principles of Chemistry at Brighton High School. She is passionate about helping her students make connections between different topics in class and between classroom content and the world around them as well as strengthening all students' scientific literacy. Ms. Weber is an active member of the school community serving as a teacher mentor to the high school LinkCrew program for incoming freshman, supporting the Science Olympiad team, advising the Wildlife Conservation Club, and attending her students' sports games and performances. Outside of school, Ms. Weber likes to do yoga, play tabletop games, and bake. She is looking forward to collaborating with teachers from other schools and having the opportunity to mentor future teachers as they begin their journeys in this challenging yet rewarding career.
Laura Westerman earned her BS in biology and Secondary Education from Syracuse University, and MS in Literacy from SUNY Geneseo. In the classroom for ten years, Mrs. Westerman has taught 7th and 8th grade general science at Dake Junior High School and Living Environment at Irondequoit High School. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Westerman has served as the Science Contact Teacher for the last five years, as a mentor to new Science teacher, and been part of the District Curriculum Council and Professional Development Plan Subcommittee for the West Irondequoit Central School District. A life-long learner, Mrs. Westerman is active in professional associations, and presented a workshop on "Integrating the Common Core Curriculum and Argumentation in a Science Classroom" at the Science Teachers Association of NYS Annual Conference in 2013. Past accolades include being named a finalist for the Excellence in STEM teaching Award through the Rochester Area Colleges Center for Excellence in Math and Science. Mrs. Westerman is excited and honored to continue her professional journey as a NYS Master Teacher, and looks forward to collaborative work with the professional learning teams and the development of STEM initiatives for the K-6 level.
Christopher White earned BS in Geological Sciences magna cum laude from the University at Buffalo and MS in Adolescence Education from D'Youville College. In the classroom for eight years, Mr. White teaches Regents Earth Science at Henry V. Burger Middle School. He is an advisor for the Burger's News Video Broadcast Club, is a local union representative, and regularly hosts student teachers and student observers. Mr. White has facilitated workshops and presentations on instructional technology including a presentation on how to integrate Google Earth into instruction at a Science Teacher Association of NYS annual conference. Mr. White has also contributed to his school by setting up a weather station, creating a student peer tutor center, and strengthening parent-teacher communication with a weekly email update program. Outside of school, Mr. White enjoys skiing, traveling, hiking, camping, and sailing. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. White looks forward to attending the mini-course on Chemistry and Physics of Earth Science, mentoring pre-service teachers, and taking part in the various Professional Learning Teams.
Amber Whitney earned her BA in Mathematics and MS in Math Education from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom for 15 years, she teaches Algebra 2, Honors Trigonometry, General Trigonometry, and Pre-Calculus at Wayne Central High School in Ontario. Mrs. Whitney is a strong advocate for hands-on and differentiated instruction, and involves her students in a variety of problem-solving and technology-inspired learning activities. Mrs. Whitney's professional interests focus on creating and fostering a student-centered classroom where all students share their ideas and create products that demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of mathematics. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Whitney serves as the coach for MasterMinds, and is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Mrs. Whitney is also active in her district as a leader of professional development workshops about using technology in the classroom.
Lisa Wilson-Jones received her AAS in Chemical Technology and BS in Geology from Alfred State College, BS in Imaging Science from Rochester Institute of Technology, and MS in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University. Ms. Wilson-Jones has been teaching at Dansville High School for the past 14 years. She has taught Regents Earth Science, Regents Chemistry Lab, Forensic Science, and General Science classes. In addition to teaching, she has also served as a New Teacher Mentor, Science Curriculum Leader, as well as a student Class Advisor for several years. Ms. Wilson-Jones is an Academic Coach at the EnCompass afterschool program, which offers additional instruction and support to struggling elementary and middle school students, as well as guided enrichment opportunities for students. Prior to education, Ms. Wilson-Jones worked 11 years as an R & D Engineer at the Eastman Kodak Company, developing and testing new materials for professional photographers and commercial markets. At school, she is hoping to start a Science Olympiad team in Dansville, as well as an Astronomy Club. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Wilson-Jones looks forward to networking with other amazing STEM teachers, sharing knowledge and skills with new teachers, and engaging in professional development.
Donald Winslow earned his BS in Mathematics from the University at Albany and his MS in Education from Nazareth College of Rochester and holds certifications in Special Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Mathematics. In the classroom for 30 years, Mr. Winslow teaches special education classes in the Lyons Central School District in Math 7, Math 8, Algebra, Science 7/8, Resource Room, and Consults in the Math 8 classroom. During his career, he has also been a consultant teacher in English, social studies, and science classrooms, and taught special classes in English and Math AIS in various grade levels 7-12. Mr. Winslow has also been a volleyball coach at the JV and modified levels, a district representative for the Wayne Finger Lakes Teacher Resource Center Policy Board, and advisor for the Math and Chess Clubs. In 2021, he was named the Lyons Teachers Association Teacher of the Year. He enjoys the Association of Math Teachers of NYS conferences, and learning from the Mathematics Education Outreach Center for Professional Development and Education Reform group through the University of Rochester. Mr. Winslow participated in the Dr. Peter Veronisi's research team at SUNY Brockport which focused on improving math and science learning. When not in school, you'll find him competing in navigational races around the northeast U.S. using orienteering maps and compass, or geocaching, or in genealogy pursuits. As a part of the Master Teacher Program, he looks forward to learning content and pedagogy that would help his students with disabilities enjoy STEM subjects more.
Rachel Yonkers earned her BS in Elementary and Special Education with a minor in Geology from SUNY Geneseo and MS in Education and Human Development from SUNY Brockport. She has been teaching third and fourth grade for 19 years in the Webster Central School District, currently at Plank South Elementary. As a classroom teacher, she believes in celebrating the uniqueness of each student, and fostering a love of learning through engaging and student-centered lessons. Mrs. Yonkers is a grade level Lead Teacher and a Mentor Teacher. She enjoys connecting with students outside of the classroom as a running coach at her school's Ridge Runners program. In her free time, she enjoys reading, and going on adventures with her husband and two children. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Yonkers is looking forward to collaborating with other educators to bring new opportunities to her school and classroom.
Cecilia Young earned her B.S. in Chemical Education from St. John Fisher College and M.S. in Education and Human Development from SUNY Brockport. In the classroom since 2010, Mrs. Young currently teaches in the West Irondequoit Central School District and previously taught Advanced Placement, Regents, and General Chemistry at James A. Beneway High School. Mrs. Young strives to engage students in learning through inquiry labs, whole brain teaching and Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning. She has served as a Science Olympiad Coach, a Teacher Center policy board member, and facilitator of a session for new teachers on the book Mindset by Carol Dweck and how it can improve student learning. She enjoys seeing students outside the classroom attending sporting and musical events and chaperoning prom and talent shows. Mrs. Young also serves on the committee for the Rochester American Chemical Society's High School Awards and is a point of contact for Science Matters. Cecilia reads, crochets, and runs in her spare time. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Young looks forward to collaborating with others who are passionate about teaching to share and learn ways to improve practice in her own classroom.
Tom Zaccardo earned his BA in Political Science and Finance from the University of Rochester and later returned to SUNY Brockport to complete his NYS teaching certification in Secondary Mathematics and Students with Disabilities. He then went on to earn an MS in Curriculum Design from SUNY Albany. Prior to teaching, Mr. Zaccardo worked for the New York State Science and Technology Entry Program which focuses on encouraging youth from historically underrepresented minority groups to enter the STEM fields. In addition, he worked as the Math Coordinator for Upward Bound, a program aimed at helping first generation college students reach their goals. Mr. Zaccardo teaches Math 8 and Algebra I at Victor Junior High School (VJH). In addition, he serves as one of the advisors for the VJH Young Men's Leadership Club and is a member of the district level curriculum council. In the past, Mr. Zaccardo has been an advisor for Student Council, coached baseball, and served on curriculum review committees in Victor. Outside of school, Mr. Zaccardo enjoys golfing and spending time with his wife and daughter. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to collaborating with his peers and growing as a professional so that he can provide the best possible learning experience for students.