Katharine Beck earned her B.A. in English & Visual Arts from Union College, M.A. in Education from Seton Hall University, and Ed.M. in Psychological Counseling with concentrations in mental health counseling and school counseling from Columbia University. As Director of College Counseling at the NYC iSchool beginning with the school's second graduating class, Ms. Beck developed a comprehensive college & postsecondary counseling curriculum and advisory system and implemented a robust intern training program. As adjunct faculty at Columbia University's Teachers College, she has taught Masters-level school counseling students since 2016 and helped create one of the first college counseling curriculums in the country. Ms. Beck has served on advisory boards and scholarship committees, including at Union, Ithaca and Lafayette Colleges, presented at NCAN and NYSACAC conferences, and served on NACAC's "Serving Next Generation College Counseling and Admission Professionals" ad-hoc committee. She is currently serving on NACAC's Admissions Practices Committee. She won the New York Times' "Teacher Who Makes A Difference" award for her college counseling work. Ms. Beck brings a background in public relations and secondary education; she is a certified teacher of English with five years of full-time teaching experience at the high school level, as well as in CUNY's College Now program. As a NYS Master Counselor, she's excited to collaborate with colleagues to best support students.

Kelly Bigliani earned a BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in Math, Science and Technology from Springfield College, an MS in Literacy from Dowling College, and was named Master Teacher for the STEM program Project Lead the Way. In this role, she provides professional development and training to teachers across the country. Mrs. Bigliani was also a member of the Project Lead The Way Launch Curriculum Design Team. Mrs. Bigliani has been teaching in the Smithtown Central School District for 24 years. She was a 2nd grade teacher before becoming a STEM Specialist in the Smithtown Elementary School. In 2018, Mrs. Bigliani was the recipient of the Torch Award by her colleagues, and is a two-time recipient of the Western Suffolk BOCES Model School Grant. She supports local Girl Scout troops as they earn coding and robotics badges. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Bigliani enjoys spending time with her family in upstate New York. She is looking forward to being part of a community of talented and passionate STEM teachers.

Amy Bouchard earned her BA in Biology from Dowling College and her Master of Arts in Teaching in Biology from Stony Brook University.  While working on her teaching certification, Mrs. Bouchard served as the Biology Laboratory Technician for Dowling College and also pursued science research opportunities.  During this time, Mrs. Bouchard worked on a National Science Foundation Grant that focused on isolating microorganisms of the Central Pine Barrens of Long Island. A teacher since 2006, Mrs. Bouchard has taught Living Environment, Science Research, Robotics and currently teaches Chemistry and Infectious Diseases at Walt Whitman High School.  Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Bouchard served as an advisor and coach for Science Olympiad, Science Bowl, Envirothon and the Protein Model Challenge. Additionally, she served as Research Coordinator and was the school liaison for the Long Island Science Congress and Long Island Science and Engineer Fair. Mrs. Bouchard is also a member of the Science Teachers Association of New York State, American Association of Chemistry Teachers and the American Chemical Society. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing golf and boating. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Bouchard Is looking forward to participating in new professional development opportunities, collaborating with fellow Master Teachers, and mentoring pre-service educators.

Carolina Castro is an Earth Science educator with over 23 years of experience with the New York City Department of Education. She holds a Masters in Earth Science Education from CUNY Brooklyn College and is a NYS Master Teacher, with multiple certifications in Earth Science for grades 5-12 and early childhood education. Currently, she serves as the Science Department Lead Teacher at the Comprehensive Model School Project in the Bronx, where she excels in curriculum design, teacher mentorship, and leading STEM initiatives.

Carolina has trained new educators as an adjunct lecturer at CUNY Brooklyn College and serves as an Educational Specialist for the NYS Department of Education, helping develop Earth Science Regents exams. Her dedication to science education has earned her numerous accolades, including participating in a science expedition aboard the Joides Resolution, receiving the European Geological Union Educator Award, and the Astor Fellowship this year. She has also engaged in professional development programs like the Regeneron Science Teaching Fellowship and the Honeywell/NASA Educator Space Camp Fellowship. Additionally, she has secured grants for her school, including twice earning the STEM Burns & McDonnell Grant to fund a hydroponics lab.

Beyond her professional achievements, Carolina enjoys spending her downtime with her family hiking, kayaking, and biking in the beautiful North Fork of Long Island. She is committed to inspiring students and fostering a love for science and the environment.

Lorraine Cittadino earned a BS in Biology from Utica College, MS in Inclusive Education from Utica College and an MLS in Information and Library Science from SUNY Buffalo. She has been teaching a variety of biology courses including Living Environment, Anatomy & Physiology, and AP Biology at Westmoreland Jr- Sr High School for the past 20 years. Prior to teaching at Westmoreland, Mrs. Cittadino was the Curator of Education at the Utica Zoo and developed many classes for children and adults. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Cittadino serves as the Science Department Chair for Westmoreland Central School and is a member of the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS) and the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT). She is an avid kayaker and enjoys the beauty of New York's Adirondack Mountains. She is enjoying the work with her fellow Master Teachers.

Brianne Corsette earned her BS in Special Education with Elementary Certification from SUNY Geneseo, and additional certifications in Mathematics for grades 7 - 12 with an extension for grades 5 - 9 from coursework completed at Onondaga Community College and SUNY Cortland. She completed her MS in Education at LeMoyne College. Working with students for 20 years, Mrs. Corsette currently teaches Math 7 at Cazenovia Middle School. She incorporates STEM learning within her classroom, connecting to students through real-life, problem-solving experiences. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Corsette is an active member of professional organizations such as Delta Kappa Gamma and the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State, holding state level positions in both groups. Mrs. Corsette enjoys time with her family, traveling with her husband and their large blended family, camping and crocheting. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is excited to work side by side with other Master Teachers, learning, collaborating and broadening her skills to impact classroom experiences with STEM topics for future students.

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Kelly DiNatale earned her BS in Marine Biology, Secondary Education Teacher Certification from the University of New England, MS in Teacher Education from the College of Saint Rose, and National Board Certification in Young Adolescent Science. She is currently pursuing an MS in Biological Sciences at Clemson University. Ms. DiNatale has extensive field experience with green sea urchins, coral reefs in Belize, and Steller sea lion research in Alaska. Previously, she worked as a Marine Biologist for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, managing Hudson River marine habitat restoration projects. For 10 years, Ms. DiNatale taught 6th-8th grade science, STEM, and Marine Biology at Broadalbin-Perth Junior High School, where she established a biannual Splash Into Science trip to the Florida Keys, introducing students to marine ecology and conservation. Currently, she teaches Anatomy & Physiology, Honors Biology, Marine Biology, and AP Biology at Fonda-Fultonville Senior High School, while also coaching modified volleyball. Recently, she was selected as a Tech Trailblazer, pioneering AI options for teachers and students in her district. The Board of Education recognized her contributions to science education and her work with the NYS Seal of Civic Readiness. Loving all things sea and sand, Ms. DiNatale enjoys spending time with family in tropical locales and snorkeling. She values collaboration with her colleagues in the NYS Master Teacher Program, focusing on implementing NYSSLS with Illinois Biological Storylines.

Meghan Dote earned her BS at SUNY Brockport in Childhood Education and her Masters Degree from Touro College in Students with Disabilities. Since obtaining her Master's Degree, she has taken many content graduate classes to earn a teaching certification in Science. Mrs. Dote currently teaches 7th grade Life Science at Whitesboro Middle School. Although teaching since 2007, this is her 7th year teaching at Whitesboro Central Schools. Outside of her teaching, Mrs. Dote is involved with the Whitesboro School District community as a Varsity Assistant Field Hockey Coach, Varsity Alpine Ski Coach, and is a member of the Compass Committee. She has also created and advised a club called Accomplishments in STEAM, where women in the STEAM field speak to the club about their path taken, struggles, and accomplishments. Mrs. Dote is also a member of the Woods Valley Ski Patrol, where she assists injured patrons and helps them seek the medical attention they need. She enjoys being very active, particularly through outdoor activities such as downhill skiing, hiking, kayaking, and waterskiing with her family. Mrs. Dote looks forward to the many opportunities that the NYS Master Teacher Program offers especially guiding and helping future teachers find their paths, and helping to enrich her students' learning.

Scott Ethé-Sayers earned his BS in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry in 2003 from the Metropolitan State College of Denver. As a native Coloradan, Mr. Ethé-Sayers also attended classes at the Colorado School of Mines before moving to the East Coast in 2004. Mr. Ethé-Sayers’s first career as a research technician included time at Columbia University where he earned an MS in Human Nutrition at Cold Spring Harbor Lab. Mr. Ethé-Sayers discovered a passion for teaching students and interns lab science and in 2011 began his studies at Long Island University Post Campus and earned a Master’s of Science in Adolescent Education degree and teaching certification in 2014. Mr. Ethé-Sayers left the lab to pursue teaching and spent the next three years in a variety of teaching roles until landing in the Farmingdale School District in 2017. Mr. Ethé-Sayers teaches Regents Chemistry, Chemistry Honors, Environmental Science, Physical Forensics and College SUPA Forensics at Farmingdale High School. Mr. Ethé-Sayers participates in the Science Olympiad, founded the Science Research Club in 2020 and co-advises the Gender and Sexualities Alliance (GSA). He is also a site coordinator for SUNY Farmingdale for the Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP), a grant funded program for underrepresented youth interested in pursuing science careers. He is really looking forward to developing a thematic approach to Chemistry to align with the NYSSLS, as well as attending NYSMTP Professional Development.

Frederick Feraco earned his BA in Biology and MS in 7-12 Adolescent Education at Long Island University. He also completed biology graduate coursework in Modern Concepts Evolution, Fisheries Biology & Aquaculture, Marine Ecology, Biochemistry, Tropical Biology and Population Ecology. Mr. Feraco is currently a PhD student in the STEM Education program at Stony Brook University. He has been a STEM educator since 2008, with experience teaching physics, biology, robotics, computer science, biotechnology, engineering, Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science, forensic science, and science research. Currently, Mr. Feraco teaches AP Computer Science Principles, and Science Research. Using his wide range of teaching experience, he guides his five classes of students to conduct long-term science investigations, utilizing collaborative mentors from research institutions. Mr. Feraco is dedicated to the science research program, and with the full support from South Huntington Union Free School District, he revamped Walt Whitman High Schools' science research program to focus on a theoretical design of a coral aquaculture propagation system. Mr. Feraco also serves in the role of advisor for the Marine Biology, Science Research, and Coding clubs. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Feraco works on various software engineering projects for fun.

Kristie Ferruzzi earned both her BS in Chemistry and MA in Secondary Education from SUNY Cortland. Since graduating in 2015, Ms. Ferruzzi has been teaching secondary science at West Islip High School. Whether it is Chemistry during the day, or Applied Forensics at night with the Alternative School Program, Ms. Ferruzzi loves engaging with all levels of learners, keeping her classroom student-centered, and making science exciting for all. She is passionate about educating the whole child, and believes there is a scientist in everyone. In 2019, Ms. Ferruzzi was honored by Suffolk ASSET with the Bright Light Award for the successful implementation of technology into her classroom, and supporting her colleagues in doing the same. She is also the advisor of West Islip Thirst Project - an initiative where she works with 300+ students to raise awareness about the global water crisis, and construct water projects for communities in need of safe, clean water across the globe. Outside of the school day, Ms. Ferruzzi loves spending time with her French Bulldog, Milton, and traveling to experience new cultures and cuisines. Ms. Ferruzzi is excited to expand her professional network, build her content knowledge, and collaborate with some of the best educators in NYS. She believes that the MTP has helped make her the educator she is today, and she is ready to take her pedagogical skills to the next level!

Peter Fitch earned an AAS in Construction Technology from SUNY Delhi, and BS and MS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego. Mr. Fitch has spent 29 years at Odessa Montour striving to provide engaging, student-centered instruction and activities in the classes he teaches. Currently he teaches 7th & 8th Grade Technology, Drawing and Design for Productions, Digital Photography, Principles of Engineering, Robotics, and First Year Experience for the Accelerated College Education program with Corning Community College. Outside of the classroom. Mr. Fitch has served as the Dean of Students, Senior Class advisor, Technology Club advisor and a union representative for the Odessa Montour Teacher's Association. He is part of New York State Technology and Engineering Education Association. Before pursuing a degree in Technology Education, Mr. Fitch worked at Gleason Works for 3 years where he completed a two-year machinist apprenticeship and was an estimator for Allied Builders for 3 years. He is a scout advisor for Troop 42 in Candor, NY and volunteers at the Bread of Life food pantry. During the summer, Mr. Fitch and his family manage the corn roasting operations for Our Green Acres Farm.

Dame Forbes earned her BS in Chemistry and a MAT in Secondary Science Education from Howard University. She also holds an Education Administration certificate from Stony Brook University where she was a Wallace Fellow. Mrs. Forbes currently teaches Regents Chemistry and Foundation chemistry at East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School in Nassau County and serves as their science department chairperson. Mrs. Forbes has had education experience since 2000. She is a teacher researcher, having had the pleasure of participating in the Columbia University Science Teacher Research Program (CUSRP) where she conducted research in the department of chemical engineering and was selected as a Lead Teacher to Malaysia and Singapore teaching classes and conducting professional development with the staff and education leaders. In addition, Mrs. Forbes has worked with Brookhaven SPARK on the NSLS-II as a teacher mentor. Throughout the years she has coached and mentored several students in science research, science bowl, Science Olympiad, ocean bowl, quiz bowl, Farmingdale STEP, and Science NHS. Mrs. Forbes also serves as the subject area representative for chemistry, Suffolk County, for the Science Teacher Association of NY (STANYS) and is a NYS education specialist in chemistry. She's a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. where she works to uplift her community. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Forbes looks forward to encouraging new teachers, continuing her lifetime commitment to learning, sharpening her skills and learning new ones, joining a community of passionate educators who are dedicated to enhancing science education across the state.

William Gunther earned his BS in Biology and Secondary Education from Marist College and a MSEd from SUNY New Paltz. With a teaching career beginning in 2011, Mr. Gunther has experience in both high school and middle school science. Now in his tenth year at Valley Central Middle School, he teaches 8th grade general science and a high school level biology course for accelerated students. The ski and snowboard club at Valley Central was recently revived, with Mr. Gunther brings his past experience as a ski instructor at Hunter Mountain helping introduce students to winter sports. When he’s not on the slopes you can expect to find him running, cycling, and coaching youth soccer. Mr. Gunther is working to develop curriculum and resources to address climate and environmental justice issues while participating with The New York Environmental Justice and Decarbonization Summer Institute, run by Educator Collective for Environmental Justice (ECEJ) and World Resources Institute’s Electric School Bus Initiative. Mr. Gunther is also an instructor with the Mid-Hudson Teacher Center and is looking forward to expanding his opportunities to collaborate with other teachers through the Master Teacher program. As a NYS Master Teacher, he looks forward to developing climate and environmental justice focused lessons to incorporate throughout the curriculum. 

Brian Halling attended Wagner College where he graduated in 2010.  He earned certifications in Mathematics, Special Education, and Spanish and has taught at both FDR High School in Hyde Park, NY and Bronxville High School. Now in his 15th year of teaching, he currently teaches Precalculus, Differential Calculus, and Entrepreneurship at Bronxville High School.  He has also served as the coach of the cross country, indoor, and outdoor track and field teams at Bronxville and his athletes and teams have earned league, section, and state titles. Mr. Halling is passionate about mathematics education and making connections between the classroom and the real world.  When not in the classroom, he can be found with his wife, Christine, and their four children.

Liz Held graduated from SUNY Albany with a BA in Sociology, received her MA in Elementary Education from Adelphi University, and earned her Professional Certificate in School Administration and Supervision from Queens College. She began her career as a Special Education teacher in Queens. She has been teaching in Elwood and has taught at James H. Boyd Intermediate School for more than 25 years, where she currently teaches third grade. She is a longtime member of the District's Technology Committee and has presented to many audiences about the use of technology in schools. Mrs. Held has received over 35 grants which funded educational opportunities for students. With some of these funds, she created a Makerspace and started an after-school club. She created several memorable STEM events such as Cranberry Day, Potato Olympics, and Glow Day, combining her passion for creativity and STEM, giving students hands-on opportunities to collaborate and problem solve. Mrs. Held has won several awards, including the Empire State Award for Excellence in Teaching, ASSET Bright Light, and the WSBOCES Teacher Integration award. She enjoys spending her free time with her family, traveling and finding various creative outlets. As a Master Teacher, Mrs. Held is excited to collaborate and learn with other master teachers.

David Herbert earned his BA and MS in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology with additional teaching certifications from Queens College and Rochester Institute of Technology. Mr. Herbert previously was a general contractor and business owner having both residential and commercial companies. Mr. Herbert is a High School Engineering Teacher in the Jericho Union Free School District. He initiated the Project Lead the Way program and has worked to promote its growth. He is certified to teach Introduction to Engineering, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Civil Engineering and Architecture, and Principles of Engineering. Mr. Herbert is also a robotics teacher and has multiple teams competing each year at local, state, and world events. He is the adult facilitator for the Engineering Club and VEX Robotics Teams. Mr. Herbert is a member of the NYS VEX Southern Tier Robotics Committee, the Long Island Technology and Engineering Associations. He is an advocate for STEAM Education and contributes to STEAM Day in the Jericho School District each year. He enjoys being outdoors and is a hiker, camper, and adventure seeker. Mr. Herbert looks forward to collaborating with NYS Master Teachers to expand his own knowledge, further improve as a teacher, and provide the best education and experience for his students.

Marcus Jun is a senior at Bronxville High School in Bronxville, New York, with a keen interest in the relationship between economics and education. He is the Executive Director and Founder of Novelty Innovations, a Morgan Stanley Finance Academy Scholar, and an active member of the Varsity Baseball team.

Rebecca Leahy earned her BS in Biology from Molloy College and MS in Adolescent Education from The College of Saint Rose. Ms. Leahy spent the last 15 years teaching Living Environment, Advanced Placement (AP) Biology, AP Environment, and Chemistry. She currently teaches Biology and College Biology at Gloversville High School. In addition, she is a moderator of the Outdoor Club at the High school. Professionally, Ms. Leahy is a member of the Science Teachers Association of New York State. In addition, she is most passionate about relaying her love of learning Science to her students. Outside the classroom, she enjoys hiking in the Adirondack High Peaks, skiing, going to concerts, and spending time with family and friends. As a Master Teacher, she enjoys collaborating with her PLT and colleagues on implementing the new Science standards and storylines. 

Edward Libretto earned his B.S in Education from SUNY Geneseo and M.S. in Adolescent Education in Biology from Dowling College. Mr. Libretto began his career in 2004, and currently teaches College Oceanography, Marine Biology and Honors Chemistry at Deer Park High School. Outside of school Mr. Libretto has spent most of his life studying the ocean environment, working as an ocean lifeguard for New York State, and exploring the New York State and National Park Systems with his family. As a Master Teacher, he is excited to work with the other members to discover new ways of helping students become stewards of the marine environment, and set them on the path toward future career opportunities in the emerging Blue Economy.

Ryan McGrath earned his BS in Biology from Marist College and MSEd in Secondary Education from Dowling College. Mr. McGrath has been teaching chemistry at Commack High School for twenty years at the regents, honors and Advanced Placement levels. During that time Mr. McGrath also completed a Post Masters Certificate in Educational Administration from Stony Brook University. He prefers to use a variety of techniques to present material to his students. Some of his favorite strategies include flipped lessons, chemical demonstrations, and anything that gets the student to work hands on. Mr. McGrath loves working with plants and growing his own fruits and vegetables. As a master teacher Mr. McGrath is looking forward to working with colleagues across science, mathematics, and technology disciplines to find innovative strategies to prepare his students for their futures.

Anthony Nobre earned his BS in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and his MA in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University. In the classroom for more than 26 years, Mr. Nobre has taught Advanced Placement Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Regents Chemistry, and various electives at Rocky Point High School and also serves as the Secondary Science Chairperson. He is passionate about making science, Chemistry in particular, accessible and relevant to all students. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Nobre is the junior varsity girls and boys tennis coach, stage manager for the high school musical, and set designer/builder for the high school and middle school musicals. Additionally, he is the Rocky Point Teachers' Association Vice President and serves on several district committees, including the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR), Strategic Planning, and Technology committees. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and is an avid hand-tool woodworker. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Nobre looks forward to collaborating with fellow passionate STEM educators.

Heather Noyd earned her BS degrees in Psychology and Health Science from The College at Brockport, MS and CAS in School Counseling from Syracuse University, and earned her National Board Certification as a National Certified Counselor. Upon completing her MS and CAS in 2013, she received the Syracuse University Master's Research Prize and Chi Sigma Iota Outstanding Master's student award. In the profession since 2013, Heather is a Career Counselor at her alma mater, Windsor Central School District, where she works closely with students and businesses focusing on career pathway development, connecting students to meaningful experiences and plans various workshops to support students and families. She also serves as the Counseling and Career Center Department Leader, Student Council Advisor and Modified Volleyball coach. She has been a New Teacher Mentor and also serves as an intern supervisor for graduate-level students in the counseling field. Ms. Noyd is an active member of the district's All Means All Committee, Trauma Response Committee, Risk Assessment and Pupil Personnel teams. Beyond school walls, Ms. Noyd is deeply connected to the community; she is the Windsor Youth Sports and Recreation President, Tee Ball Coordinator, and coach. She is passionate about having a positive impact on those around her. In her free time, she loves to be with her family, golf, ski, and play volleyball. As a NYS Master Counselor, Ms. Noyd looks forward to being a part of the first Master Counselor cohort, to continue to grow and bring back all she learns to others.

Tracey Parker earned her BS in Elementary Education, with a 7-9 Mathematics Extension, from SUNY Oswego, and her MSEd from SUNY Oneonta. In the classroom since 1994, Mrs. Parker has taught 5th-8th grade and high school math. She currently teaches Academic Intervention Services to 6-8 math students, Math Prep 8, Algebra, Algebra B, and Geometry. Mrs. Parker was recognized with the SUNY Oneonta Exemplary Service Award for mentoring student teachers. She has served her school community in a variety of roles: Mathematics Department Chair, Milford Teachers Association treasurer, Safety Patrol advisor, member of interview, scheduling, and Comprehensive District Education Plan committees, volleyball, and Math Olympiad coach, and class advisor. Mrs. Parker enjoys camping and spending time with her husband and four children. Her favorite pastimes are watching her children play soccer, basketball and baseball/softball. Mrs. Parker is passionate about helping struggling students succeed and looks forward to expanding her STEM content and pedagogical knowledge as a NYS Master Teacher. She is particularly interested in learning how she can help students consider STEM related careers as viable opportunities.

Samrat Pathania grew up in India and his childhood love for science and mathematics culminated in a degree in mechanical engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur (India). After working several years as a software engineer with various multi-national corporations, Samrat became a teacher and enrolled at SUNY New Paltz. He earned his BS in both Mathematics and Secondary Education Physics from SUNY New Paltz with outstanding graduate awards in each. He became involved in mathematics research during graduate coursework with his mentor David Clark. Samrat was named the sole winner of the 2017 STEM Teacher Scholarship from the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, and was also awarded one of two 2017 Mathematics Graduate Course Work Scholarships from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Samrat teaches physics, mathematics and software programming courses at Wallkill High School. Having learned mathematics through multiple inquiry-based learning (IBL) courses, he strives to bring the benefits of IBL to mathematics and science education. He is currently co-authoring a university level textbook with David Clark which lays out the full theoretical foundation of a new system of Euclidean Geometry tailored to the needs of secondary school teachers. He is a passionate advocate for the environment and is former chair and coordinator of the New Paltz Climate Action Coalition. He is also concerned about advances in digital technologies as they pertain to the question of human well-being and flourishing.

Randi Pepe earned her B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.S.Ed in Special Education from SUNY New Paltz. She has been teaching 5th grade Special Education in an Inclusion Co-Taught class since 2003, the last 16 years of which has been spent teaching at Somers Intermediate School. Mrs. Pepe’s passion for teaching came from working at a day camp for children with special needs for eight summers. Her favorite subject to teach is Math. She incorporates using hands-on material and references real-life connections daily in order to help engage all learners. She prides herself on differentiating so that all students can access the curriculum and succeed. Mrs. Pepe has served on her school's math committee for 16 years. In her free time, she enjoys spending time skiing and going to the beach with her husband and three young children. Mrs. Pepe is looking forward to having the opportunity to engage with other Master Teachers in order to bring new and relevant ideas to her students.

Heather Pizza earned her A.A. in Liberal Arts from Cazenovia College, her B.S. in Elementary Education with a Concentration in Psychology of the Exceptional Child from SUNY Cortland, and her M.S.Ed. in Special Education from SUNY Binghamton University. Mrs. Pizza, who has been in the classroom at Oxford Academy and Central Schools for over twenty years, currently teaches 4th Grade Science and Social Studies. She serves as an active member in the Central New York Council for the Social Studies, Oxford’s Comprehensive District Education Plan Team, and the District’s STEAM Committee. Mrs. Pizza has guided over forty student participants in Roborave, NY since its inception in 2018. She will soon begin her third year of The Trout in the Classroom and is a member of her local Trout Unlimited Chapter. In her free time, Mrs. Pizza enjoys playing golf and spending time outside with her husband and family.

Elizabeth Quadrozzi earned her BS in Journalism from SUNY Brockport, her MS in Outdoor Education, and her MS in Childhood Education from SUNY Cortland. In the classroom for ten years, Mrs. Quadrozzi has been teaching 6th grade science at DeWitt Middle School. Before teaching, she worked at various zoos and nature centers inspiring kids to connect with the outdoors. Passionate about learning, Mrs. Quadrozzi works to teach students to stay curious, ask questions, and become lifelong learners. Mrs. Quadrozzi also serves as the Science Department Leader at DeWitt Middle School and is the past advisor of the National Junior Honor Society and Science Clubs. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Quadrozzi is excited to inspire a new generation of science teachers and connect with other science educators on best practices.

Dr. Alecia Redway is a distinguished educator in science education and transformational leadership. She holds a Doctorate in Transformational Leadership from Long Island University, where her dissertation explored how science teachers interpret students’ scientific models through drawings. Dr. Redway also earned a Master’s in Biology, Chemistry, and General Science Education from New York University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology.

With 23 years of classroom experience, Dr. Redway currently serves as a Gifted Science Instructor and Science Liaison at PEARLS Hawthorne in Yonkers, NY. She has also taught Regents Chemistry, Living Environment, Forensic Science, Health Science, and General Science in Yonkers and NYC public schools. Known for developing NGSS/NYSSLS-aligned, culturally responsive curricula, she is dedicated to mentoring and professional development, often leading workshops on culturally responsive pedagogy and visual literacy.

Dr. Redway’s research centers on visual literacy, culturally responsive curricula, and grounded theory. She has presented at local, national, and international conferences and contributed to book chapters on science teacher leadership and grounded theory. Recognized as a STANYS Teacher of Excellence for the Intermediate Level, New York State Master Teacher Emeritus, and a NASA Regeneron STEM Teaching Fellow, Dr. Redway is celebrated for her contributions to science education.

As an emeritus of the New York State Master Teacher Program, Dr. Redway is committed to inspiring students and supporting fellow educators through innovative teaching and grounded theory research.

Danielle Reed earned her Masters in Education from Long Island University and her Masters in Educational Administration from Stony Brook University. She worked as an elementary teacher since 2003, teaching students from first to fifth grade.  Three years ago, she moved to West Hollow Middle School to teach 6th grade science, encouraging students to persevere through challenges by taking risks and making mistakes. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Reed is a Canvas and Google certified teacher, helping colleagues and students engage with technology in creative ways. Her inspiration for teaching came from helping beginners learn to groom and ride horses. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Reed enjoys learning new and exciting ways to approach science practices in the classroom.

Carrie Schlagler earned her BS in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry at New York University, and her MS in Cell Biology and Genetics from Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences. Prior to teaching, Ms. Schlagler researched cell cycle regulation and breast cancer at the Sloan-Kettering Institute and worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative. She returned to SUNY Empire State College to earn her MAT after raising three children. With over ten years of pedagogical experience, Ms. Schlagler teaches Regents Living Environment, Chemistry, and Earth Science, as well as the new Genetics and Scientific Research electives, at Marlboro High School. She has been the Science Olympiad advisor, mentored new staff, presented numerous district sponsored professional development courses, and hosted student teachers. Throughout MHS, she is known for collaborating with colleagues both within and beyond the science department. Most recently, Ms. Schlagler was awarded the NASA-Endeavor-Regeneron STEM Teaching Fellowship and is looking forward to doing research again. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Schlagler looks forward to not only implementing best practices in STEM based pedagogy from educators across the state but also sharing them with her district colleagues.

JoEllen Schuleman earned her B.A. in Government from the University of Texas at Austin and M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Houston. Ms. Schuleman began her teaching career in Houston, TX. After teaching six years in Houston, she moved to New York City where she currently works as an elementary STEM specialist at PS 199 on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Ms. Schuleman is a school's School Leadership Team member, a LEGO Education Ambassador, and EcoRise Ambassador. Additionally, she runs the school's hydroponic science center and sponsors several student clubs focused on sustainability and environmental community service within the school. As part of her commitment to promoting NGSS and best practice in science teaching, Ms. Schuleman worked as a science coach in District 1 and currently serves as a member of New York City's Public School's Elementary Science Leadership Team and Climate Education Leadership Team. Passionate about connecting students to the world around them through authentic experiences, Ms. Schuleman can be found traveling the globe collecting sand, nature photos, and science phenomena. She belongs to the initial cohort of elementary school teachers granted a Master Teacher Fellowship with Math for America. Ms. Schuleman is looking forward to collaborating with like-minded teachers across New York State

Carin Shaffer earned her A.S. in Liberal Arts from Broome Community College, her B.S. and M.S. in Elementary Education from SUNY Cortland. She currently teaches 3rd grade at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School. Mrs. Shaffer previously taught 4th grade and was the district's 2nd – 8th grade Challenge Enrichment Teacher. Outside of the classroom, she established an afterschool Science Club which transformed into a STEM club and started a Mathletes Club. Mrs. Shaffer has also served on the building Shared Leadership Team, district Professional Development Committee, Assessment Committee, and as Trustee of the Windsor Central School District Board of Education. She mentors new teachers and has hosted several interns from SUNY Binghamton University and SUNY Cortland. Mrs. Shaffer has written and been awarded several Foundation Grants and Target Grants that have provided students experiences outside of the classroom. Mrs. Shaffer enjoys nature and learning. She spends time with her husband, two children, and eleven animals. As a Master Teacher, she is excited about learning and collaborating with others from around the state and engaging in the mini-courses and Professional Learning Teams.

Marianne Strayton earned her BA in elementary education and psychology from Saint Michael's College, her MS in elementary science, focusing on STEM from Iona College, and her Ed.D. in Curriculum and Teaching from Teacher College, Columbia University. Dr. Strayton has been the recipient of several awards due to her scholarship, impact, and service, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), Rockland County's Forty Under Forty, and the Katherine Fairbacks Award. Dr. Strayton has been teaching in Clarkstown Central School District since 1999. During that time she has served a classroom teacher, enrichment teacher, math & science coordinator, and currently serves as a math interventionist and elementary math department co-chair. She is Past President of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New York State and Ten County Mathematics Educators Association. Dr. Strayton is an active volunteer with her church community. This role includes participating in youth ministry events and summer service learning trips to domestic and international locations. Marianne loves being around joyfully engaged people, whether her niece & nephew, or the NYS MTP Fellows! She thoroughly enjoys the rich opportunities to collaborate with educators across the region and state.

Keri Teribury Keri Teribury earned her BA in 7-12 Biology Education from Ithaca College and her MSEd from Binghamton University. Mrs. Teribury has been teaching at Union Endicott High School for 21 years. During this time, she has taught Living Environment and Applied Science. In addition, she has taught Forensic Science for 15 years. She created the curriculum for the district to introduce students to various STEM careers as well as provide a science elective to fulfill graduation requirements. She has been a cooperating teacher for several student teachers and has mentored new teachers. Mrs. Teribury's interests include attending the numerous sporting and musical events that her four children have been active in over the years. She also enjoys CrossFit, being active in her local church, and more recently, the joy of camping with her husband and children. Mrs. Teribury wants her children and her students to not be afraid of a challenge: embrace it, enjoy the process; and remember there is always something to be learned. She is delighted to be a part of the NYS Master Teacher network and is looking forward to collaborating with many highly qualified educators as she continues to foster the curiosity of her students, incorporate new learning in her classrooms, and refine her pedagogical skills.

Kevin Tranchina earned a BS in Biochemistry from Siena College and MS in Adolescent Biology Education from Molloy College. Before teaching, he spent 4 years as a lab manager at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. He began teaching in 2014, and has taught Chemistry, Living Environment, and Physical Science at Lynbrook Senior High School since 2015. Mr. Tranchina is the current moderator of the school’s Science Olympiad team and Future Doctors Association, having previously filled the same role with the Marine Club. Additionally, he has enjoyed building years-long relationships with students as advisor to the classes of 2020 and 2026. He was honored with the Lynbrook High School Excellence in Teaching Award in 2022. His involvement in the Lynbrook community extends to membership on the school’s Health and Safety Committee and the district-wide Assessment/Weighting/Grading Commission, along with multiple terms as a building representative for the Lynbrook Teachers Association. Mr. Tranchina is a member of the American Chemical Society and American Association of Chemistry Teachers, and was appointed in 2022 as the Nassau section Chemistry representative for the Science Teachers Association of New York State. He balances his work life by finding time for reading, drawing, giving too much attention to fantasy sports, and watching his nieces’ and nephews’ many activities. As a member of the Master Teacher program, he is eager to learn from a network of passionate colleagues at the leading front of science education.

Belinda Westfield graduated with her BA from Daemen University, MS in Counselor Education from Canisius University, and MS in Educational Administration also from Canisius University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NYS and is trained in EMDR (trauma therapy). Ms. Westfield has been working at Depew Schools as a School Counselor for the past 28 years and has served the district at the High School, Middle School, and Elementary School settings. She has also worked as a Cooperating Counselor and Adjunct Professor at Canisius University for the past 15 years. She's facilitated a variety of graduate courses in the Counselor Education Department. Ms. Westfield belongs to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, New York State Counselors Association, Elementary Counselors Consortium, and EMDR Trauma Therapy Network. She additionally published an article about "The Diagnosis and Treatment of Adults with ADHD" in the Journal of Counseling and Development. She currently participates on a variety of district committees such as Comprehensive District Education Plan, Restorative Practices, and Positive Behavior Intervention. She greatly enjoys volunteering on the Musical Committee at her school and teaching Vacation Bible School at her church. Ms. Westfield is honored to participate in the NYS Master Counselor Program as she's excited to further develop her knowledge, skills, and experiences with colleagues to ultimately enhance her work with students, families, and other educators.

Sabrina Whitaker earned her BS in physics from Indiana University at South Bend, her MS in Earth science from The Ohio State University, and her Master of Arts in Teaching physics from Stony Brook University. She is certified to teach Physics, Earth Science, General Science with 5-6 extension, and has her Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages certificate. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Whitaker worked as a science editor with scientists from around the world at Ehime University in Matsuyama, Japan. She received the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship for working in high-needs districts and the Albert Shanker grant to pursue National Board Certification. In the classroom for seven years, Mrs. Whitaker teaches Regents physics and College Forensics through the Syracuse University Project Advance program at Farmingdale High School. She is an English-as-a-New-Language Summer Literacy and Community STEM Teacher Coordinator and serves on the Seal of Civic Readiness Committee and the Science Curriculum Review Committee. She is a co-advisor for Farmingdale High School's National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and advisor to the DigiTech Club. Outside school, she co-advises her local Girl Scout troop while knitting in her free time. Mrs. Whitaker considers herself a lifelong learner who strives to instill that same love of learning in her students. She promotes hands-on, inquiry-based learning via a flipped classroom. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers and finding multiple opportunities to enrich her teaching.

Kristy Zukswert graduated from Boston University with a BA in Biology and as a member of the Kilachand Honors College. She was a Robert Noyce Scholarship recipient, earned her MS in Adolescence Education in Biology, and completed an additional certificate program in Urban Teaching and Leadership at the University of Rochester. In 2017, Ms. Zukswert earned her NYS teaching certifications in Biology (grades 7-12), Chemistry (grades 7-12), and General Science (grades 7-12 extension) and started her teaching career in the Rochester City School District. During her time in Rochester, she was a volunteer co-planner of the annual Rochester Regional Terra Science Fairs and a part-time ski instructor at Bristol Mountain. In 2020 she joined Arlington High School and currently teaches Regents Chemistry and Natural Disasters. At Arlington, Ms. Zukswert also serves on the Wellness and Belonging [Equity] Team, is a National Honor Society Co-Advisor, and an Arlington Summer Kids Instructor. Valuing the mentoring she received earlier in her career, she also enjoys mentoring pre-service teachers from Marist College and teaching at the Mid-Hudson Teacher Center. Passionate about climate change solutions, Ms. Zukswert has also conducted field research at Yellowstone National Park through Ecology Project International and is a member of the Mid-Hudson Climate Education and Sustainability Cohort. Outside the classroom, you can find her skiing, hiking, traveling, or spending time with loved ones. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Zukswert is excited to build meaningful connections and collaborate with other STEM professionals to develop relevant, climate focused curriculum.