(Please visit the program website to learn more and to contact the program for questions.) There are three areas of ability and commitment to growth that are essential to successful participation in the Master Teacher community: content knowledge, pedagogy, and a deep understanding of students. Master Teachers are strong classroom teachers with clear goals for further developing their breadth and depth in all of these areas:
Knowledge of content: Master Teachers have been exposed to and grappled with ideas that are central to their discipline at advanced levels. Like any STEM professionals, however, they view their knowledge as incomplete. Knowledge of pedagogy: Master Teachers have a deep understanding of professional knowledge for teaching, and strive to incorporate successful practices in their work. They continually evaluate, refine, and adapt their practice to better meet the needs of their students. Knowledge of students: Master Teachers possess a deep knowledge of their students’ neighborhoods, cultures, and values. Master Teachers see a student’s family and community as resources in their efforts to inspire them to study STEM disciplines. WHAT DO MASTER TEACHERS DO? As program participants, Master Teachers make a commitment to engage in professional development (PD) work in addition to their regular school responsibilities. Master Teaches meet regularly (evenings and weekends) to participate in activities that lead to individual and collective professional growth. PD programming opportunities include three-session mini-courses. Mini-courses have addressed student research and emerging STEM subjects such as climate change and hydro-fracturing. Master Teachers have formed Professional Learning Teams around topics such as student research projects, expeditionary learning, the flipped classroom, and the Common Core. Master Teachers participate in leadership workshops to better contribute to departmental discussions and mentor early career and pre-service teachers. Master Teachers also participate in the Empire State STEM Learning Network through regional STEM hubs, partnering with local businesses and agencies to better prepare students for STEM careers.
