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.

Scott Azar earned his BS in Earth Science and Adolescent Education from SUNY Oneonta, his MA in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University, and his Masters in Educational Leadership from Mercy College. He is currently pursuing his EdD at Long Island University Post. Mr. Azar taught most of his career in New York City. Currently, he teaches Regents Earth Science and Intro to Science Research at Mepham High School and the Meadowbrook Alternative Program. Mr. Azar has coached football at Calhoun High School and Grand Avenue Middle School, and serves as club advisor for the Mepham eSports Team and the Jewish Student Union. During the summer, Mr. Azar facilitates the G-Camp for Teachers Program at Texas A&M University with the Geophysics Department. He is passionate about infusing technology into the classroom and was among the first 1,000 people to attain certification as an International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Educator. Mr. Azar is excited to collaborate with other Master Teachers to create more engaging lessons that are tailored to the new New York State Science Learning Standards. He also looks forward to sharing his passion for virtual and augmented reality with his peers.

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.

Walter Benedict is currently a Middle School Counselor in Solvay Union Free School District. He has been a School Counselor since 2015 and has worked across all grade levels K-12. Mr. Benedict earned his BA in Psychology from Le Moyne College as well as his MS and CAS in School Counseling from Syracuse University. Mr. Benedict has also received his National Counselor Certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors. In 2017 Mr. Benedict received the New York State School Counseling Association's Leadership Award, and in 2018 was named a recipient of the North Atlantic Region Association Emerging Leader Award. Mr. Benedict takes an active role in his school and community by being involved with many building and district wide committees. In addition to his work as a School Counselor, Mr. Benedict has also pursued professional publications and presentations and most recently worked as an adjunct Instructor for SUNY Oswego's Counseling and Psychological Services Department for the Fall 2023 semester. Outside of work, Mr. Benedict loves to get outdoors as much as possible (hiking, kayaking, camping, etc.). Mr. Benedict is very excited to begin this journey of connecting and growing with other professionals from all over the state!

Maria Leon Chu graduated from CUNY Queens College in the TIME 2000 Program in 2010. She earned a Master of Science degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from Queens College in 2013, co-authoring a thesis entitled, Selected Secondary Mathematics Teachers’ Passion toward Teaching and Their Potential to Remain in the Profession. In addition to being certified to teach secondary mathematics, Maria also holds New York State Certification in Bilingual Education—Spanish. In 2013, Maria began an Early Career Fellowship with Math for America, and became a Master Teacher Fellow in 2017. Maria is in her fourteenth year teaching at Francis Lewis High School, Fresh Meadows, New York.

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.

Justin Crossway earned his BA in Adapted Physical Education, and MS in Pedagogy, an additional BA and teaching certification in Earth Science from the College at Brockport. In the classroom for 12 years, Mr. Crossway teaches Earth Science. He coaches Varsity Cross Country, Indoor Track and Field, and Outdoor Track and Field, has served on the Negotiations Team for his Teacher’s Union and is involved in South Jefferson’s Summer Recreation Program. From his background in adapted physical education, Regents Earth Science, STEM, and high school coaching opportunities, Mr. Crossway finds kinesthetic learning most engaging for students. Providing daily demonstrations, lab work, and movement opportunities is his preferred method to teach content, skills, and confidence to students. Humor and fun are also integral components of retaining those teachable moments. To give as much evening time as possible to his family after school, Mr. Crossway’s hobby involves a 4:30 am wake up call to cardio. He likes to train and compete in 10K’s and half marathons year-round. His motivation to keep running and competing is inspired by his athletes at South Jefferson. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Crossway is most looking forward to developing new strengths and strategies from the NYSMTP Team to implement in the classroom.

David Czechowski is a Computer Science and Technology Teacher at F. D. Roosevelt High School in New York's beautiful Hudson Valley. As a life-long learner himself, he is also a (remote) student and researcher with the University of Florida.

A dedicated advocate for K-12 CS education, Mr. Czechowski serves as a Chapter Leader for New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley Region and actively contributes to CSforNY statewide. His expertise and leadership are further recognized through his service on multiple National CSTA Committees.

Beyond the classroom and his own studies, David is deeply invested in his community. He enjoys facilitating engaging STEM activities for local libraries, Girl Scout troops, and families, striving to broaden participation and inspire a curiosity and confidence with the computer science that is shaping all of our lives. His dedication the next generation is evident in his various roles and his active involvement in both the local and national education communities.

Erin Daniels earned her BA in Elementary Education with a concentration in Mathematics and her MA in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. She has experience teaching first, third, and fifth grades, and is currently teaching 6th grade at Haviland Middle School. Science education has always been at the forefront of her love for teaching. Educating students for 22 years in Hyde Park has taught her immensely about students and what they need. Mrs. Daniels believes questioning is key to students learning science content. She enjoys the challenge of utilizing student-created questions to guide her instruction. In 2021, She was part of a team of teachers awarded a local grant from the Hyde Park Education Foundation to build a garden from the ground up. In addition to running the school garden, Mrs. Daniels is a mentor for new teachers, the ‘Game Club’ advisor, assists with the Extended Day program, and writes curriculum with colleagues. Her hobbies include learning to crochet, reading, hiking, and spending time with family. She is currently learning Spanish to assist with her English Language Learner (ELL) families. She looks forward to collaborating with participants in the NYS Master Teacher Program, learning more to support the ELL population, learning more about Nature Based Education, and Science and Math lesson sharing.

Michelle Roser Fanelli received her BA in Biology with minors in Anthropology and Environmental Science & Policy from Hartwick College and her Masters of Science in Secondary Education from Syracuse University. Mrs. Fanelli has been teaching Living Environment at Liverpool High School (LHS) since 2006, she has also taught Environmental Studies. Mrs. Fanelli has been the Science Department Chair since September 2016. She currently participates in the LHS Building and Safety committees, School Excellence Team, Guiding Coalition, and Climate and Culture Committee (building and district level) and facilitated department and building level book clubs from 2020-2022. Mrs. Fanelli has been a member of Nation Science Teacher Association since 2006 and participated in six National Conferences. Mrs. Fanelli has attended the NYS School Environmental Health Conference and participated in SeaGrant and Upstate Freshwater Institute teacher outreach programs, where she had the privilege to collaborate with Master Teacher Emeriti. Mrs. Fanelli attended Barnstable Public Schools in Massachusetts, where her teachers encouraged an appreciation for nature and life-long-learning through observation, inquiry, collaboration, and exploration. Experiences with her family, teachers (professors), coaches, and friends at Barnstable Public Schools and Hartwick College, along with her passion for science and learning influenced her decision to be a teacher. Mrs. Fanelli is excited to participate in the Master Teacher opportunities and collaborate with current and Emeriti Master Teachers in order to learn more about current research in science and education, so she can encourage students as she was encouraged to question the world around us.

Beth Gerardi earned her B.S. in Science Secondary Education form Oral Roberts University and M.S. in Applied Behavioral Studies from Oklahoma State University. Ms. Gerardi has been in public education since 1990 and has been a school counselor since 1997 years. She is currently a high school counselor at Gowanda High School where she has served in that capacity since 2001. At Gowanda, Ms. Gerardi co-coordinates the high school crisis team and sits on committees for the Seal of Civic Readiness, Seal of Biliteracy, and the local STEM endorsement. Additionally, she serves as the K-12 Director of School Counseling. Ms. Gerardi was recognized as the New York State School Counselor of the Year (2014),was a National School Counselor of the Year Semi-Finalist (2015), received the Excellence in Suicide Prevention Award (2014), a Lifetime Achievement Award in school counseling (2019), and Program of the Year award for drop-out prevention (2015). Ms. Gerardi is a member of the American School Counseling Association, New York State School Counseling Association, Western New York School Counseling Consortium, New York State Association for College Admissions Counseling and the Erie County Suicide Prevention Coalition. She has attended and presented at several NYSSCA conferences and is the current Region 9 Governor for NYSSCA. She is also a NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor. As a NYS Master Counselor, Ms. Gerardi looks forward to collaborating with other school counselors to develop best practices in the field and presenting at future NYSSCA conferences and local events.

Amy Golden earned her BS in Elementary Education with a mathematics extension and her MSEd from SUNY College at Buffalo. She has been teaching 6th grade math at Lewiston Porter Middle School in Youngstown, NY, for 19 years. Mrs. Golden is an active member of her school community, serving as the Middle School Math Department Chairperson, a member of the Building Leadership Team, a middle school advisor for the One District One Book program, a teacher mentor for pre-service teachers from Buffalo State College, and Girls on the Run Coach. Additionally, Mrs. Golden has worked to build collaborative relationships with colleagues in districts throughout the Western NY region and participates in a professional learning opportunity with monthly meetings that focus on building a teacher knowledge base for the implementation of high-quality instructional resources through the collaborative investigation of video cases. Mrs. Golden is a lifelong resident of Lewiston, and when she's not in the classroom, she enjoys running, biking, gardening, baking/designing cakes, and spending time with her family. As a new member of the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Golden is looking forward to learning with the Girls in STEM and Emerging Technologies professional learning opportunities.

Kelly Hudson earned her B.A. in Mathematics with Teaching Certification from Messiah College and Masters in Math Education from Queens College.  She started the grade 8 Algebra Regents program at MS 72 during her first year of teaching in 2005 and has continued teaching this program at her current school, The Scholars’ Academy since 2012.  In 2012, she was recognized as the Top Ten Math Teachers in New York City for making the highest gains in student state exam scores for consecutive years and was ranked in the 99th percentile for math teachers in grades 3-8.  Kelly attributes this recognition to her focus on student growth mindset and her curriculum development.  She has spent over 15 years creating her own curriculum that combines the 8th and 9th grade math state standards to create a cohesive curriculum.  Since 2015, Mrs. Hudson has planned the annual STEAM Family Night at her school.  She has been a Math for America Master Teacher since 2017 and has helped to facilitate professional development on Socratic Seminars in the math classroom.  As an NYS Master teacher, Kelly is looking forward to being part of an even bigger community of educators to collaborate with and learn from.  

Julia Hudyncia-Davis attended SUNY Cobleskill before transferring to Cornell University where she earned her BS in Animal Science and Master of Art in Teaching in Agriculture Education. Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis taught an array of agriculture science courses since 2010, including Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Equine Science, Dairy Science, Plant Science, Food Systems, Wildlife/Conservation Management, and Agriculture Mechanics. Currently, she teaches at Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville (OESJ) Central School, and is advisor of the Mohawk Valley Future Farmer of America, a youth organization focused on leadership, personal growth, and career success. Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis has been recognized for her teaching at the state and national levels including being named the New York Association of Agricultural Educators (NYAAE) Teacher Turn the Key Winner, and Outstanding Teacher Award. Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis has held many leadership roles in and out of school. At OESJ, she's an active participant in the Building Leaders Team and coordinator of “Cookie and a Compliment.” Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis is an active member of her family farm where they milk Registered Holsteins, raise organic grass-fed beef, and operate a garden and greenhouse to supply a local school and farm store. Recently, Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis was the New York Farm Bureau Excellence in Agriculture Award Winner. As an educator, it is her goal to bring her passion and involvement in the agriculture industry to her students. Mrs. Hudyncia-Davis is looking forward to being able to share her passion and experiences in agriculture with other STEM content teachers.

Christie Kalinoglu earned her BS in Elementary Education with concentration in Biology and Chemistry from Adelphi University, graduating Summa Cum Laude, MA in Mathematics with distinction from Hofstra University and a Professional Diploma in School Administration from Queens College. Mrs. Kalinoglu also has her School District Administrator and School Building Administrator certifications. In the classroom for 20 years, she teaches 8th grade Algebra, is the Mathematics Coordinator and serves as the Advisor to Student Council and Math Olympiads. Mrs. Kalinoglu has also been an Adjunct Professor of Mathematics in the Molloy College nursing program. She is a member of Nassau County Math Teachers Association, National Council Teachers of Mathematics, New York State Middle School Association, Phi Theta Kappa, and Kappa Delta Pi, and has presented at national and state conferences on Middle Level Best Practices for the 21st Century Classroom. She was awarded the Middle School Mathematics Teacher of the Year from Nassau County Mathematics Teachers Association in 2018. Mrs. Kalinoglu enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and running with the North Merrick Runners Club. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Kalinoglu looks forward to sharing her passion and love for learning as she expands her pedagogical strategies and deepens her content knowledge in STEM so she can integrate all the letters of STEM in her math lessons.

Jenny Konop holds a BA in Anthropology from Brown University and an MS in School Counseling from Long Island University. She is a seasoned and highly accomplished school counselor who has worked at Northport High School since 2003. Mrs. Konop's career is defined by her student-centered approach, which earned her the prestigious American School Counselor Association New York State Counselor of the Year award in 2018. This accolade recognized her dedication to students and success in implementing a comprehensive, data-driven counseling program. Her innovative contributions have significantly advanced programs supporting students' career, personal/social, and academic development. In 2022, Assemblyman Keith Brown further recognized her contributions by naming her a Woman of Distinction for the Town of Huntington. As an educational leader, she has been active on a multitude of committees and initiatives as a tireless advocate for her students, driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives. She is a member of the Western Suffolk Counselors Association, the New York State School Counselor Association, and the American School Counselor Association. Additionally, her community involvement extends beyond her professional sphere, marked by her role as a charter member and past secretary for the Long Island Pride PTSA and as a volunteer youth soccer coach. She is an avid reader and fitness enthusiast who loves spending time with her family, gardening, and being outdoors. Mrs. Konop looks forward to collaborating with fellow NYS Master Counselors and embracing the extensive professional development opportunities within the program.

Allison Kootsikas earned their BS in Elementary Education at Illinois State University, MAEd in Mathematics Education from the University of Georgia, and PhD in Curriculum & Instruction from The Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Kootsikas has taught at a variety of levels including elementary, middle, and university levels. They have been at Ithaca City School District for six years, with the last four years at DeWitt Middle School where they teach 6th grade Science. They also enjoy working with pre-service teachers in a variety of field placements. Dr. Kootsikas is a member of National Science Teaching Association and has been the advisor for the school's Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Dr. Kootsikas enjoys spending time with family, CrossFit, hiking, kayaking, knitting, and throwing pottery. Dr. Kootsikas is looking forward to learning more about enhancing their teaching practices as well as deepening their STEAM content.

Dr. Alexander Lord is a high school mathematics teacher at Francis Lewis High School in Queens. He earned his B.A. in Mathematics and Anthropology from the Macaulay Honors College, Queens College, CUNY, his M.S.Ed. in Mathematics Education from Queens College, CUNY, and his Ed.D. in Learning and Teaching from Hofstra University. Alexander is a recipient of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Teacher-Scholar Fellowship through Columbia University, the K-16 Pedagogy Fellowship through CUNY, and the Astor International Travel Fellowship to England through NYU. Additionally, he is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Secondary Mathematics Education at Queens College, and has presented at professional conferences and published original research. Alexander also regularly participates in scoring AP Calculus exams, serves on the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Professional Development Teacher Advisory Council, and enjoys volunteering as a judge at FIRST Robotics competitions. As an NYS Master Teacher, Alexander values joining a wider community of STEM educators with whom he can learn and share resources.

Michael Lovullo earned his BS in Biology from SUNY at Brockport and MS in Secondary Education from Niagara University. In the classroom for 19 years, he began his science teaching career in the Niagara Falls City School District and then transitioned to the city of Buffalo. Mr. Lovullo previously taught Biology and served as a leader for a team of ninth grade teachers at Tapestry Charter School. Currently, he teaches Advanced Placement Environmental Science and Environmental Science at the International Preparatory School at Grover Cleveland. Mr. Lovullo co-facilitates the Environmental Champions Program at his school and teaches for the Youth Environmental Leaders Program (YELP), a partnership between Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, Buffalo Public Schools, and SUNY Erie Community College that gives high school students an immersive opportunity to explore environmental issues and earn college credit. Mr. Lovullo has served on various curriculum committees, most recently working on the creation of a Climate Change elective course. Outside of school, he is an assistant coach for his son's travel baseball team, loves to go biking with his wife and three kids, and watch movies. He is honored by the opportunity to grow as a Master Teacher and continue as a mentor for new educators.

Jaclyn Lund earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education PreK-6 with a Concentration in Psychology from SUNY Cortland and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from SUNY Oneonta. She was born and raised in Edmeston, NY (near Cooperstown, NY). Mrs. Lund started teaching in 2000 and has taught all 24 of her years in Kindergarten. She is a veteran teacher for the Norwich City School District at Stanford J. Gibson Primary. Mrs. Lund has been active in the setup of the new Maker's Space/STEM Area at her Primary Building, a past PLT lead and now PLT Committee Member, a Mentor Supervising Teacher for new/incoming teachers, and she serves on several district wide committees throughout the year. Outside of the classroom, Jaclyn enjoys attending school/sporting events for her three children, volunteering at a local Community Cupboard food program, reading and exercising. Her children have inspired her to keep learning! By watching their love of math and science grow throughout the years, she is inspired to collaborate with others and to learn about new advancements in STEM. As a NYS Master Teacher she is excited to be on a new journey with others who are passionate about providing great education for all students and to learn from one another's strengths/interests. Mrs. Lund is optimistic and ready for the next four years ahead!

Andrea Mango earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatre and Masters in Elementary Education-Birth-6th from Niagara University. Since 2005, Andrea has been an elementary teacher at Dodge Elementary in Williamsville, NY. In 2021, Andrea left the regular classroom to create a STEAM program for her school, where she currently guides close to 600 students in Kindergarten through Fourth Grade to solve problems, think critically, and work collaboratively. Andrea designs elementary lessons focused on creativity and hands-on learning for The Creative Thinking Network. She has been a guest on The STEM Everyday Podcast and Fueling Creativity podcast. Andrea has provided professional development on creativity in the classroom for Curiosity 2 Create and has contributed to two books about weaving creativity into your curriculum. Andrea is excited about co-facilitating a Professional Learning Team through the Master Teacher Program entitled Adding STEAM to the Elementary Classroom so she can help fellow Master Teachers incorporate STEAM into their classrooms and learn from other STEAM/STEM educators.

Erin McClure earned her BS in Mathematics and Mathematics Adolescence Education from SUNY Fredonia, and MS in Teaching and Curriculum with an Emphasis in Mathematics at Syracuse University. While at SU, she was able to teach Elementary Statistics and Pre-Calculus as a graduate assistant. Upon returning to the WNY region, Mrs. McClure taught a few night classes for Erie Community College as well as held multiple long- term substitute positions until she was hired by Randolph Central School District in 2012. In her time at RCS, Mrs. McClure primarily taught 7th grade, AIS, various JCC courses, and was a class and yearbook advisor. Mrs. McClure joined the North Collins Central School District in 2021, as their middle school mathematics teacher. She is the National Junior Honor Society advisor, has found more time to volunteer in the community, and can be seen cheering on the NC athletes at many home games. Mrs. McClure is honored to be accepted into the NYS Master Teacher Program as she has been participating in various Professional Learning Teams, Landscapes, and other MTP offered mini-courses over the past many years. Mrs. McClure entered the education field to help make mathematics more engaging and accessible. Her current focus is to allow for more vertical scaffolding, exploration with the math content in the view of other STEAM fields, and the continued use of Formative Assessment Lessons.

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.

Miriam (Mimi) Ong Ante has been teaching in NYC Public Schools since 2014. She has been a Math for America Master Teacher since 2018, and was the 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars Distinguished Teacher. She earned her Master’s in Secondary Math Education from City College of New York and Bachelor’s of Applied Math from Virginia Commonwealth University. Currently, she is teaching AP Statistics and 7th grade Mathematics at Hunter College High School where she is also the Term Advisor for the Class of 2030 as well as the Robotics Club Faculty Advisor. Mimi lives with her husband, three cats, and enjoys surfing at Rockaway Beach.

Tricia Pierce earned her BS in Childhood Education with minors in Mathematics and Spanish and her MSEd as a Technology Educator in the Curriculum and Instruction department at SUNY Potsdam. Mrs. Pierce began her teaching career in the Ogdensburg City School District with five years focusing mostly on elementary math before utilizing her early childhood certification to operate two childcare facilities that provided enriching emergent math and science experiences for our North Country families and youngest learners. She returned to the public-school classroom and after seven years in early childhood education and has been teaching third grade ever since. Mrs. Pierce also loves integrating STEM, Math, and Science learning with literacy while working with the One School, One Book Committee and the StoryWalk at Black River Elementary. She has volunteered with Cub Scouts and is currently a Girl Scout troop leader where she can inspire girls through many science, math, and STEM themed badges monthly. Always a lifelong learner, Mrs. Pierce was inspired to apply for the Master Teacher Program to further explore the thematic connections between STEM, the arts, and other humanities. She is looking forward to further exploring math and science content in order to bring these experiences to her elementary classroom and colleagues. She is most looking forward to networking with other devoted teachers around the state to learn about creative best practices that help students and communities succeed.

Michelle Pink earned her BA in Elementary Education with a concentration in Science from SUNY New Paltz, her MA in Students with Disabilities (grades 1-6) from Mount Saint Mary’s College. In her 24th year of teaching, Mrs. Pink teaches 6th grade science and has taught 6th grade math, reading, and English Language Arts at Orville A Todd Middle School. She has served as the 6th grade Chairperson for Science and as Co-Chair for the 6-12th grade Science Department, and is an adjunct professor at SUNY New Paltz, teaching the Master of Science in Teaching Fieldwork classes. Additionally, Mrs. Pink coaches the Middle School Science Olympiad team, helping students prepare for regional and state competitions. Mrs. Pink won the award for Outstanding Coach in Science Olympiad, and was recognized by the 14th Annual SUNY New Paltz Internship Recognition Ceremony for her valuable contributions and continued support in the Student Teaching Program. Being an original Technology Fellow for the Spackenkill School District ties to her passion of learning new technologies and sharing them with other educators. As a lifelong learner, Mrs. Pink looks forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers as well as future teachers to share knowledge and learn from others.

Christina Randazzo received a BS in Elementary Education from Daemen College and MSEd in Childhood Education from Buffalo State College. She taught third and fourth grades in the Amherst Central School District for 22 years and is currently teaching an integrated co-teaching model at Windermere Boulevard Elementary. As a member of a district team that trains teachers on the Essential Elements of Instruction, she also mentors new teachers. Additionally, she serves on her school’s Character Education Committee and District Science Committee. Ms. Randazzo has led workshops for colleagues on a variety of topics, ranging from differentiated instruction and best teaching practices, to using areas around the school for outdoor learning purposes. She has partnered with a university professor to offer after-school, investigative sessions in an effort to intrigue learners to pursue careers in branches of science. Ms. Randazzo enjoys hiking and creative crafting, in addition to keeping up with her two active children. She believes in constantly challenging herself and agrees with Gandhi’s advice, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

Mark has 10+ years of experience in college access, enrollment management, and student success with traditional and non - traditional students throughout NYS. He has held many positions throughout his career including Assistant Director for The Office of Enrollment Management and Student Success at SUNY and Director of NYGEAR UP Year 7. At SUNY, Mark has implemented numerous marketing and recruitment strategies to over 20,000+ high school students and families in NYC and NJ for all 64 SUNY universities and colleges. Currently, Mark’s purposes and passion continue to intertwine. In his role as Strategic Recruitment Coordinator, he focuses his efforts growing the interest of EOP throughout NYS, building relationships with schools, community-based organizations (CBOs), and civil leaders in providing college access and success tools to underserved communities.

Renae Scott earned her BS and MS degrees from SUNY Oneonta. Mrs. Scott’s undergraduate work was in Mathematics Education and her graduate work was in Special Education. Mrs. Scott began her teaching journey in 2008 with the Gilbertsville Mount-Upton Central School District. After leaving GMU, she taught at Schenevus Central School where she was the lead teacher of a self-contained high school special education classroom before transitioning back to a full-time math teacher. Currently, Mrs. Scott is teaching Math 7 and Pre-Advanced Placement Algebra 1 at the Oneonta Middle School (OMS), her alma mater. In her 15 years of teaching, Mrs. Scott has been a National Junior Honor Society advisor, class advisor, ski club advisor, and has coached modified softball and girls soccer, JV Girls basketball, and Varsity Cross Country. Most recently, Mrs. Scott served as a volunteer at community food drives, building ambassador for the Catskill Regional Teacher Center, member of the Oneonta City School District School Comprehensive Education Plan, and advisor for house Ukuzidela at OMS. In her classroom, Mrs. Scott strives to inspire students to love math. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Scott is looking forward to collaborating with fellow colleagues while developing engaging lessons and activities for her students. Additionally, she is looking to provide her students with more cross-curricular opportunities. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Scott has a passion for the outdoors and photography. She enjoys camping trips and adventures with her family.

Annette Sebuyira earned her BS in Biochemistry from Elmira College, MS in Education from SUNY at Albany, and National Board Certification in Adolescent Science. Ms. Sebuyira teaches Advanced Placement, Regents, and Honors Lab Chemistry at Guilderland High School. Ms. Sebuyira is an adjunct of the Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) and has taught SUPA Chemistry and SUPA Forensics. Ms. Sebuyira is dedicated to dynamic teaching as a means of creating and nurturing a lifelong love of knowledge in children and as such serves as the Club advisor to NYS District Key Club, Science Olympiad, and STAR (Students and Teachers against Racism). Outside of school, Ms. Sebuyira expands her STEM connection by being a Beyond Benign Green Chemistry Lead Teacher, has been a Camp invention instructor, and implemented the STEM in our Schools Day, Fifth- grade Program. She volunteers as a Trustee for the Local City Library, has been a two-time recipient of the YMCA Outstanding Educator Award and recognized by Channel 13 as Educator of the Week. Ms. Sebuyira is passionate about motivating her students and sharing the love of learning through STEM. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Sebuyira looks forward to participating in the upcoming Green Chemistry Workshops, and joining the Common Science/Technology and Math Language Professional Learning Team.

Adam Seelig earned his AS in Architecture from Orange County Community College, BS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego, MS in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology, and is currently in the process of completing his MS in Technology Education from SUNY Oswego. Before teaching, Mr. Seelig enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. (1999-2005) as a KC-130 flight mechanic traveling the world and participating in Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Southern Watch. In the classroom since 2007, Mr. Seelig teaches 8th-grade technology education at John G. Borden Middle School – including the design process, problem-solving, aerodynamics, architecture, technical drawing, 3d printing, coding, hydroponics, and more, all as project-based learning activities. Being active in his local professional organization of MHTEEA (Mid-Hudson Technology and Engineering Educators’ Association), Mr. Seelig tours local industries and schools to ensure his students receive current, real-world technologies and opportunities. Having run tech clubs, canjo clubs (a musical instrument like a guitar but with only one string), and building little free libraries for all five buildings in the Wallkill Central School district, students have ample opportunities to be involved outside the classroom too! As a New York State Master Teacher, Mr. Seelig is excited to collaborate with Professional Learning Teams.

Kristin Stark earned her B.A. in Elementary Education/Early Secondary English Education (7–9) from Canisius University and her M.S. in Reading Teacher/Specialist from the University at Buffalo. She is in her 31st year of teaching at the elementary level and has taught grades K through 4.

Since 2021, Kristin has been part of her district’s 21st Century Classroom Initiative, integrating STEAM activities that promote creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. She has also participated in the Buffalo Math Collaborative, where she gained strategies to strengthen students' number sense and problem-solving skills.

As a member of NYSCATE, Kristin attends technology-based workshops to stay current with innovative instructional practices. In 2025, she and her co-teacher are presenting on their 21st Century Classroom work at the elementary level. She also advises her school’s Cooking Club for grades 3 and 4 and currently serves as chair of her district’s Professional Development Committee. In addition, she represents her teacher union on the WNY Teacher Center Policy Board.

Outside the classroom, Kristin enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, reading, and traveling. She is proud to be part of the Master Teacher program and considers herself a lifelong learner, always seeking new ideas and strategies to bring back to her students and colleagues.

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.

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.

Justin Wiedrick earned his BS in Elementary Education and Mathematics, MS in Literacy Education from SUNY Oswego, and is certified in Elementary Education and Literacy and 7-12 Mathematics. He is currently a National Board Certified Teacher. In the classroom for more than 15 years, Mr. Wiedrick has taught 5th through 10th grade mathematics. Currently at Adirondack Central, Mr. Wiedrick teaches 6th Grade Mathematics, and has coached multiple levels of football, basketball, baseball, softball, and lacrosse. He has also taught multiple levels of summer school and ran an after school program that helped at-risk middle school students succeed in and out of the traditional school setting. Mr. Wiedrick runs an after school drone club and teaches a middle school STEAM class that includes drones, robots, and engineering competitions and challenges. As part of the MTP Academy, Mr. Wiedrick eagerly anticipates working with more MTs in the realm of STEAM pedagogy at all levels. He is devoted to fitness and the outdoors and aspires to become an Adirondack 46er, climbing the 46 major peaks of NYS Adirondack Mountains, along with his wife and dogs of course. Justin is an avid sports fan who abides by the Arthur Ashe quote, "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Wiedrick is eager to assist in the preparation of new and pre-service teachers, working with his peer Master Teachers to share good teaching practices, and joining a Professional Learning Team that will advance mathematical teaching methods and the profession as a whole.

Ami Wiswell earned her BS from Oswego State in Applied Mathematical Economics and her MS Ed and CAS from Oneonta State in School Counselor, K-12. Prior to obtaining her graduate degree, she was a buyer in the private sector. In 2006, she began her foray in school counseling, with her primary goal being to help her students identify and achieve success, their own and those mandated. She strives to enhance her students' development of whole-self, particularly in academics, career readiness, and social/emotional skills. She believes the key is learning what is important to each student, providing the right balance of support and accountability, and collaborating with all stake holders to assist students with reaching their highest potential. Miss Wiswell is employed by Broome-Tioga BOCES, working with area students enrolled in the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program. She serves on the advisory boards at SUNY Broome for four majors associated with P-TECH, is a member of the Professional Development Advisory and Industry Partners Committees at B-T BOCES. In addition, she volunteers with the Voices for Children/Court Appointed Special Advocates program, The Danielle House and works part time for Educational Vistas, Inc. Outside of work, she loves being outdoors, practicing yoga, cooking, baking, reading, and spending as much time as possible with her niece and nephews. She is very much looking forward to expanding her network of fellow counselors and adding to her bag of tricks. She notes: "Learning from, and with, the other NYS Master Counselors will be exhilarating."