New York State has named several educators from Huntington area schools to its list of master teachers and master counselors.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. said, “The New York State Master Teacher Program celebrates outstanding educators who make a significant impact on their students and the school districts they serve, and we are pleased to see this program expand to include Master Counselors. K-12 educators and counselors are critical in guiding students through their early academic journey, inspiring them to learn more and get excited about their studies. With the new FAFSA form coming out this year, the role of counselors in helping students achieve their college dreams is more important than ever.”
Below is the list, along with the description of their work and contributions to education.
Amy Bouchard
South Huntington Union Free School District
Amy Bouchard earned her BA in Biology from Dowling College and her MAT in Biology from SUNY Stony Brook University. While working on her teaching certification, Mrs. Bouchard served as the Biology Laboratory Technician for Dowling College and 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 for since 2007, Mrs. Bouchard has taught Living Environment, Science Research and currently teaches Chemistry and Robotics at Walt Whitman High School. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Bouchard served as advisor and coach for Science Olympiad, Science Bowl, Envirothon and the Protein Modeling 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. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family and playing golf. 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.
Jason Braun
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Jason Braun earned his BS in Biology from Quinnipiac University, and MAT and post-master’s Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership/ Administration from Stony Brook University. Prior to teaching high school, Mr. Braun was as an adjunct instructor at Stony Brook University teaching Cellular and Organ Physiology Lab & Molecular and Cellular Biology Lab. In the classroom for 14 years, he has taught a wide range of classes including Living Environment/Advanced Placement (AP) Environmental Science (a dual-credit course), AP Environmental Science, Honors, Regents & ICT Living Environment, Forensic Science, Marine Science, and Anatomy & Physiology. In addition, Mr. Braun serves as a mentor for AP Capstone courses students, as well as student teachers and student observers from educator preparation programs at universities throughout Long Island. Beyond his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Braun is an active member of Science Teachers Association of New York State and National Science Teachers Association, has been a guest speaker for the Association of Suffolk Supervisors for Educational Technologies, and is currently coaching the Varsity Cross Country and Track & Field programs at Half Hollow Hills East. Mr. Braun’s teaching style is largely defined by a quote from Albert Einstein, “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Braun is excited to continue to collaborate with other teachers around NYS and build upon his ability to train a young mind to think effectively in the future.
Amy Cappiello
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Amy Cappiello earned her MA in Mathematics Education from Stony Brook University, and BA in Mathematics and Education from St. Joseph’s College. In the classroom for 16 years, Mrs. Cappiello teaches Algebra 2 & Trigonometry and Advanced Placement Calculus AB at Commack High School. She is a strong advocate for improving student understanding and appreciation of mathematics and problem solving and her classes involve students in meaningful discussions, discovery learning and math fairs. Mrs. Cappiello loves teaching math because she is always learning; she still becomes excited when her students connect the various branches of mathematics using different techniques. Her professional interests focus on curriculum writing, mentoring pre-service teachers, and participation in professional activities with her colleagues such as lesson study, a professional development practice championed by Japanese educators. Mrs. Cappiello is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS, the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association, and the NYS Master Teacher Program Delegation to the TeachNY Advisory Council.
Zoe Chiam
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Zoe Chiam earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Boston University and her M.A. in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University. In the classroom for 16 years, Ms. Chiam teaches fifth grade in Half Hollow Hills. Inspired by Einstein’s words, “Never stop questioning”, Ms. Chiam creates an environment where it is safe to make a mistake out loud; she challenges her students to be creative in their problem solving, persevering through failures to find solutions. She facilitates the creation of student websites that serve as both digital portfolios of their progress and accomplishments, and as a platform for students to voice their questions and ideas with peers and the community. Ms. Chiam co-advises the Stock Market Game Club and mentors colleagues, student teachers, and observers. She has presented at the Suffolk ASSET Conference and the district’s Night of Code events. Outside of school, Ms. Chiam loves surfing with friends and photographing the world around her. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to working with and learning from others, so she can continue to challenge herself and create an inspiring learning environment for her students.
Thomas Ciolfi
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Thomas Ciolfi earned his BS in Civil Engineering from Tufts University and his MA in Math Education from Stony Brook University. Mr. Ciolfi worked as a civil engineer in California for two years before switching to teaching high school math and coaching soccer, where he worked for 3 years in Berkeley, CA and 4 years Watsonville, CA, now teaching at Half Hollow Hills High School East in Dix Hills, NY since 2005. In his teaching career, he has taught all levels of high school math and currently teaches AP Calculus AB, Honors College Calculus and Regents Algebra 2. Mr. Ciolfi has coached boys and girls high school soccer for 20 years, diving for 2 years, and formed and advised hip/hop breakdancing clubs at each high school where he has taught. He even performed in high school pep rallies along with his dance club! Mr. Ciolfi appreciates being a judge at the annual Long Island Math Fair. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing, mountain biking, gardening, hiking, reading books and spending time with family. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Ciolfi is looking forward to collaborating with other teachers that share his enthusiasm of STEM education in the PLTs.
Jeanette Collette
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Jeanette Collette earned her BS in Medical Technology from Daemen College and MSEd in Secondary Science Education from SUNY at Buffalo. Prior to teaching, Ms. Collette worked as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in the Hematology Lab at Roswell Park Cancer Institute where she was appointed the Clinical Education Coordinator. In the classroom for nine years, Ms. Collette teaches International Baccalaureate Biology and Science Research at Commack High School. She is a member of her School-Based Management Team and also serves on the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair Scientific Review Committee and Commack’s Scientific Review Committee. She is actively involved in local science competitions and the regional Science Olympiads. Ms. Collette recently taught forensics at Farmingdale State College for the Science & Technology Entry Program/Collegiate Science & Technology Entry Program. Ms. Collette is a member of several professional organizations and past presenter at the National Association of Biology Teachers Conference. As a New York State Master Teacher, she is looking forward to participating in the upcoming mini-course on Evolution and Health, joining a Professional Learning Team, and providing high quality professional development to other teachers.
Frederick Feraco
South Huntington Union Free School District
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.
Liz Held
Elwood Union Free School District
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 in 1994 as a Special Education teacher in Queens. In 1996, she began teaching in Elwood and has taught at James H. Boyd Intermediate School for the past 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 bringing more than $75,000 to Elwood to fund exciting 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 solve problems. 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 time with her family (including her two rescue dogs), traveling and crafting. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Held is excited to collaborate and learn with other master teachers.
Kristin Holmes
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Kristin Holmes earned her BA in Mathematics and Computer Science from Vassar College and MA in Education from Stony Brook University. In the classroom nine years, Mrs. Holmes teaches Precalculus and Introductory, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Computer Science at Commack High School. She is a strong advocate for educational equity and a proponent of developing students’ understanding through their application of concepts and skills to real-world situations. Mrs. Holmes engages her students in active learning through peer mentoring, problem‑based learning, and learning groups. Her professional interests focus on the integration of technology in the classroom, professional learning teams for teachers, and expanding participation in higher-level STEM courses to under-represented student populations. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mrs. Holmes is a member of National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS, the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association, and the Computer Science Teachers Association. Before joining the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mrs. Holmes was an artificial intelligence and robotics researcher and a developer of real-time trading systems for foreign currency markets.
Bryan Horan
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Northport-East Northport School District
Bryan Horan earned his BA in Biology and MS in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University (SBU) and has permanent certifications in Biology and Chemistry. Prior to teaching, Mr. Horan worked as a scientist at Brookhaven National Laboratory conducting investigations in neuropharmacology. In the classroom for 17 years, Mr. Horan is the Science Research Program Coordinator at Northport High School and serves as co-advisor to the Science Olympiad team. Mr. Horan also recently acted as Science Research Program Director and Philanthropy Center Director to A Midwinter Night’s Dream, Inc., a Northport High School student-run non-profit organization that has raised over $3 million for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients and research. In addition to his school responsibilities, Mr. Horan is co-director to the Long Island Science & Engineering Fair Broadcom MASTERS Middle School Science Fair, and an instructor at SBU where he co-teaches Chemical Demonstrations and Science Pedagogy and Methods I. Mr. Horan finds inspiration in the words of science fiction author Isaac Asimov, “There is a single light of science, and to brighten it anywhere is to brighten it everywhere.” As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. Horan is looking forward to creating meaningful professional development opportunities to share with K-12 teachers.
John Karavias
South Huntington Union Free School District
John Karavias earned his BS in Biology and BS in Education at Delaware Valley University and Master of Arts and Liberal Sciences at Stony Brook University. Mr. Karavias is a veteran teacher of 24 years at Walt Whitman High School, starting his career teaching biology. In 2004 he created the Marine Biology Program and now teaches Marine Biology for college credit and research. Mr. Karavias believes that science is more than what you teach, it is what you do. Over the past 15 years, he has been on the Bering Sea to research the effects of climate change on carbon export and has had his boots on the ground, drilling for cores on the Northern Slope of Alaska to reconstruct paleoclimate in the region. To keep advanced science fresh for him, he worked as an adjunct professor for LIU Post, and is currently an instructor for the American Museum of Natural History’s Seminar on Science Program. Mr. Karavias is an active staff member of Walt Whitman High School and frequents school events. He has taken dozens of students to Iceland and Costa Rica to introduce them to new cultures and ecological nuances. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to introducing his passion for climate change and biomimicry to his peers as well as incorporating what he learns from other Master Teachers into his classroom.
Amanda Kavner
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Amanda Kavner earned her B.S. in Biology & Chemistry and M.S.Ed. in Secondary Science Education from Hofstra University, M.S. in Educational Technology from Long Island University, and her Ph.D. in the Science of Learning at the University at Buffalo. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the usage of artificial intelligence to promote science literacy. For the past 9 years, Dr. Kavner has been teaching Living Environment and Chemistry at Half Hollow Hills High School East. Prior to teaching, she worked as a bench chemist in environmental testing & cosmetic formulation. Outside of the classroom, Dr. Kavner advises the XXCoders, is a BarCode LI mentor, and an international speaker on science literacy. Dr. Kavner serves on the district’s Technology Committee, the union’s Leadership Team, and is the webmaster for the Half Hollow Hills Teacher’s Association. She is also an active member of the National Science Teachers’ Association (NSTA) and the Science Teachers’ Association of NY (STANYS). An advocate for experiential learning, Dr. Kavner brings in her 12 foot Burmese Python into school to teach invasive species annually and as a NYS Master Teacher, Dr. Kavner is excited to join LIACTS, and the Bio & Cognitive Science Professional Learning Teams!
Justin King
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Justin King earned his BS in Physics from Union College and Master of Arts in Teaching from Stony Brook University. He has been teaching physics at Commack High School for the past seven years. In addition to teaching, Mr. King coaches the Science Olympiad team and the Science Quiz Bowl team. Mr. King has adopted the Flipped Classroom model of teaching and has begun to implement a Flipped Mastery model, in which students work at their own pace to complete units of instruction within an environment that encourages true understanding and synthesis of knowledge. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mr. King is looking forward to working with like-minded colleagues across science and mathematics disciplines to find interesting and innovative ways to educate and inspire his students.
Kimberly King
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Kimberly King earned her BS in Secondary Chemistry Education from Long Island University Post Campus and MS in Chemistry from St. John’s University. Prior to teaching, Mrs. King worked as an Organic Chemistry Laboratory Supervisor at St. John’s University and a Laboratory Technician at SUNY Farmingdale. In the classroom for 10 years, she teaches International Baccalaureate Chemistry and Honors Chemistry. At her school, she serves as a member of the District Literacy Committee and as a science research mentor. She uses inquiry-based pedagogy to foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking in her classroom. Chemistry is one key to unlocking a better understanding of who we are, how things work, and how we can improve the world. Mrs. King believes that building this awareness and appreciation for STEM creates a self-motivated, lifelong learner. She is a member of the American Chemical Society, American Association of Chemistry Teachers, National Science Teachers Association and Science Teachers Association of New York State. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. King looks forward to participating in STEM activities to stay current with developments in her field and collaborate with a broader collegial network to promote innovative teaching methods that engage and inspire students.
KimMarie Lennon
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
KimMarie Lennon earned her BA in Elementary Education from Long Island University- CW Post Campus, MA in Early Childhood Education from Adelphi University, CAS in Elementary Education from New York University, and attended Oxford University-Trinity College to study the British approach to integrated language and cultural influence of a child. In the classroom for twenty-nine years, she currently teaches second grade at Paumanok Elementary School. Ms. Lennon has been the recipient of the Margaret Simon Award for Excellence in Social Studies, Visionary Award for Excellence in Economic Education and New York State Outstanding Social Studies Classroom Teacher Award. She developed and leads the Coding, and the STEM Clubs. In the classroom, Ms. Lennon cultivates an environment of active participation, encouraging students to take risks and work collaboratively. She bridges the gap between elementary and high school collaborating with High School East on coding and economic projects. Ms. Lennon develops curriculum for multiple subjects for Half Hollow Hills Central School District, and facilitates professional learning opportunities for district-wide teachers. Ms. Lennon and her daughter support Swim-Across-America, a nonprofit dedicated to raising money for cancer research and treatment through swim events at the Half Hollow Hills Natatorium. The weekends are spent with family, playing golf with the LPGA-Amateur League. As a NYS Master Teacher, Ms. Lennon looks forward to working with her peers to broaden and deepen her STEM knowledge in order to enhance the quality of her students’ learning.
Karyn Libretto
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Northport-East Northport Union Free School District
Karyn Libretto earned her B.S. in Education from St. John’s University and M.A. in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University with an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Computing. In the classroom for 15 years, Mrs. Libretto teaches IB Physics, SAT 2 Physics, Regents Physics, and Introduction to Physics for ELLs at Northport High School. Mrs. Libretto serves as a coordinator for her district’s STEM Family Night and STEM Fair. In addition, she is a member of the Greenhouse Committee and actively maintains all vegetable gardens at her school. Outside of school, Mrs. Libretto is a snowboard coach at Windham Mountain Resorts and is an active member of the Long Island Physics Teacher Association. She finds inspiration from nature through gardening, camping, hiking, snowboarding, and surfing. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Libretto is looking forward to collaborating with talented professionals and gaining new skills and insight into supporting diverse learners.
Keith Lundquist
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
South Huntington Union Free School District
Keith Lundquist earned his BA in Physics and Math from SUNY Oswego, MA in Science Education from New York University and is currently a PhD student in Science Education at Stony Brook University. Even after 15 years in the classroom, Mr. Lundquist is dedicated to developing his skills as an educator in order to be the best possible instructor for his students, and enjoys collaborating with his colleagues on new course materials and implementation. He teaches Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Physics and Astronomy at Walt Whitman High School. A longtime proponent of student-centered teaching, Mr. Lundquist incorporates his students’ interests and goals into lesson planning. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, he led a workshop for his peer AP Physics Teachers, focusing on various topics related to the course content and structure, and co-organized Teslamania, a physics demonstration competition between teachers. Mr. Lundquist loves teaching STEM for its creativity. He can often be quoted saying, “To actually do science is to do something that has never been done before. Creativity is at the heart of every discovery.”
Sheila Mauriello
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Cold Spring Harbor Central School District
Sheila Mauriello earned her B.A. in Earth Science/Chemistry/Secondary Education and M.S. in Students with Disabilities from Dowling College, and M.S in Educational Technology from Long Island University-Post. In the classroom for 7 years, she teaches Inclusion Regents Earth Science, Regents Chemistry, AP Environmental Science and Advanced Science Research 1 at Cold Spring Harbor Jr/Sr High School. As an NSF Noyce Scholar, Mrs. Mauriello studied conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands and Amazon Basin in Ecuador, as well as helped to excavate and prepare fossils for the Marmarth Research Foundation in North Dakota. Mrs. Mauriello serves on the Technology Committee, School Improvement Team, National Honor Society Committee, and co-advises the Junior Helpers Club. She is a member of the National Science Teachers Association, STANYS, International Society of Technology in Education, and the National Earth Science Teachers Association. She is a strong proponent for technology integration in education and was honored with the Bright Light Award by Suffolk ASSET for her innovative use of technology in the classroom. Mrs. Mauriello is an alumnus of the Greentree Foundation Teachers’ Ecology Workshop and actively seeks opportunities to learn and grow as a teacher. She enjoys traveling, sporting events and spending time with her husband and four sons. As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to collaborating and learning from her peers to help bring innovative and engaging STEM experiences to her students.
Ryan McGrath
Commack Union Free School District
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.
Stephanie O’Brien
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Stephanie O’Brien earned her BS in Chemistry and Master of Arts in Teaching in Chemistry from Stony Brook University and is pursuing her doctorate in science education. Her professional interests focus on Pre-Service and in-Service teachers’ development of Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) in Chemistry. In the classroom seven years, Mrs. O’Brien teaches Regents, Honors, and introductory level chemistry courses at Commack High School. A strong advocate for inquiry based learning, she involves her students in collaborative activities that allow for self-directed exploration of the content. She has embraced the “Understanding by Design” teaching philosophy which focuses on the use of essential questions to facilitate student learning and the design of assessments that show true mastery of knowledge. At her school, Mrs. O’Brien serves as the advisor to the Science Honor Society and is the science representative on the Secondary Education Literacy Committee. She is a member of the National Science Teachers Association and Science Teachers Association of NYS. Mrs. O’Brien mentored students in the local National Chemistry Olympiad Competition (sponsored by the American Chemical Society) and served as a judge for the NYS Science and Engineering Fair.
Nannette O’Grady
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Nannette O’Grady earned her BA in Mathematics at St. John’s University, MSEd in Mathematics Education at Queens College, and MS in Educational Technologies at Long Island University. A classroom teacher for 30 years, Mrs. O’Grady currently teaches Algebra 1 and AP Calculus BC at Half Hollow Hills H.S. West, but has taught every grade from 6th to 12th in her career. Mrs. O’Grady is an active member of the school community as the Business Manager for the school theater program, advisor to the Thespian Honor Society, and assistant advisor for the Senior Class. These activities allow Mrs. O’Grady to interact with students involved in the arts and in social activities outside the classroom. She finds inspiration with a look at a sign hanging in her classroom, a gift from a past student, “Teachers who love teaching teach children to love learning”. Mrs. O’Grady is an active member of her church, involved in the local Boy Scout troop where all 3 of her sons are Eagle Scouts, and is an avid hiker with a lifetime goal to visit every National Park. As a NYS Master Teacher, she looks forward to interacting with other dedicated professionals to enrich her knowledge in all STEM fields and in turn create an increasingly rewarding experience for every student in her classroom.
Christina Pawlowski
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Christina Pawlowski earned her BA in Mathematics and Secondary Education and a MS in Mathematics from Hofstra University. In the classroom for eight years, she teaches International Baccalaureate (IB) Mathematics Standard Level and IB Mathematics Higher Level/Advanced Placement Calculus BC at Commack High School. A strong advocate for teaching through modeling and “think aloud” questioning, Ms. Pawlowski integrates technology, group work and various problem solving strategies to engage her students in a variety of hands-on, inquiry-based lessons. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ms. Pawlowski is a member of the Secondary Level Literacy Committee and the “Understanding by Design” Instructional Committee at Commack High School.She is a member of the Suffolk County Math Teachers Association and recently presented workshops at the Long Island Language Arts Council Spring Conference and at the Annual Middle Level Conference sponsored by the NYS Middle School Association. Ms. Pawlowski was nominated for Teacher of the Year for her contributions to Commack High School.
Derek Pope
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Derek Pope earned his BS in Mathematics from Seton Hall University and Master of Arts in Teaching in Mathematics from Stony Brook University and was awarded National Board Certification in Math. In the classroom 10 years, Mr. Pope teaches Integrated Algebra and International Baccalaureate Precalculus at Commack High School. A strong advocate for inquiry-based learning, Mr. Pope involves his students in engaging activities and thought-provoking discussions. His professional interests include effective questioning techniques, technology integration to promote discovery learning, and “Lesson Study,” a professional development practice championed by Japanese educators. Within the NYS Master Teacher Program, Mr. Pope participated in the Climate Change Mini-Course and is a member of three Professional Learning Teams (PLT): Mathematical Radian Measure PLT, Homework Policies PLT and the PLT Facilitator Training. Mr. Pope is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Suffolk County Math Teachers Association, and is a Senior Fellow of the Knowles Science Teaching Foundation. He was awarded the Joseph B. Whitehead Educator of Distinction Award, an award presented annually to 250 educators nationally, in conjunction with the Coca-Cola Scholars Program in recognition for work done to support students in the pursuit of their goals for higher education.
Danielle Reed
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Danielle Reed earned her MSEd from Long Island University and her Med in Educational Administration from Stony Brook University. As an elementary teacher since 2003, she has worked with students from first to fifth grade at Signal Hill Elementary School. She works to inspire her current fourth grade students to “be a voice, not an echo,” encouraging them 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. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Reed loves spending time with her family, riding horses, and traveling. As a NYS Master Teacher, Mrs. Reed is looking forward to learning new and exciting ways to approach science and math in the classroom.
Christopher Regini
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Christopher Regini earned his B.A. in Physics from the University of Connecticut and his M.A. from Stony Brook University. He has spent 14 years in the Half Hollow Hills school district. As a Raspberry Pi certified educator, he incorporates physical computing, robotics, and 3D printing into his middle school science classes. Mr. Regini’s goal is to thread design thinking into the curriculum; he takes a learning-by-making approach that allows his students to creatively express their knowledge of content while establishing a digital portfolio. Their flagship project is a fully automated vertical hydroponic farm and soil-based CNC Farmbot that double as a community garden. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Regini advises the Code Club which explores the integration of various sensors and IoT projects into these systems. Their research has been facilitated by partnerships with Princeton University, NASA, and Island Harvest, and he has showcased his students’ work at Suffolk ASSET, Long Island Maker Faire, and Night of Code. Mr. Regini broadens the lens through which his young learners view the world by linking his program with nearly a dozen schools on four continents. As a NYS Master Teacher, he is looking forward to participating in the Engaging Students Beyond the Classroom PLT as well as designing mini-courses to help others bring electronics, coding, and hydroponics to their science labs.
Danielle Rodrigues
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
South Huntington Union Free School District
Danielle Rodrigues earned her B.S. in Public Relations from Syracuse University from the Newhouse School. Pursuing her love for science, she worked in the pharmaceutical division of Porter Novelli for the Pfizer and Amgen teams on the release of new pharmaceutical technology. Then she decided to pursue her Masters in Biology Education from CW Post Long Island University. Ms. Rodrigues grew up in a bilingual home, speaking Portuguese with her family. Using this lifelong skill, she furthered her education following her graduation by pursuing her Bilingual extension, in Spanish, and her ENL extension. Ms. Rodrigues teaches the Bilingual/ENL Regents Living Environment course, sections of Bilingual Science Investigations, and ENL Science Investigations, a course for which she created the curriculum, at Walt Whitman High School. Ms. Rodrigues is currently a co-advisor for The Latino Heritage Club and a mentor and member of the Positive Partnership Program (PPP), part of the Natural Helpers program. She also teaches a staff and educator development course for skills and knowledge of the ELL (English Language Learner) student in her district. In her free time, Danielle is a member of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio. She is very excited to be a part of the NYS Master Teacher Program to gain new and exciting professional experiences, expand her knowledge base, improve her craft, and learn and share with all of her colleagues in the program.
Jaime Rogers
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
South Huntington Union Free School District
Jaime F. Rogers Jr. earned his BS in Respiratory Care and post-graduate certificate in School Building/District Administration from Stony Brook University, and MS in Secondary Education from Dowling College. Mr. Rogers holds certifications in EMT-Critical Care, Registered Respiratory Therapy, Pulmonary Function, Neonatal Respiratory Specialty, and has earned his Professional Association Diving Instructors (PADI) Dive Master. Prior to teaching, he worked as a Respiratory Therapist. In the classroom for over 13 years, Mr. Rogers teaches Honors Physics, Robotics (offered for college credit through SUNY Farmingdale), CPR and First Aid at Walt Whitman High School. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Rogers started the Amateur Radio and FIRST/ VEX Robotics Clubs, and has raised over $140,000 for Childhood Cancer Research. In 2014, he was named the South Huntington Union Free School District “Teacher of the Year.” Outside of school, he serves as an Ex-Captain in the Terryville Fire Department, volunteering as a Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician for Critical Care. Mr. Rogers loves the outdoors—running obstacle races, and riding his motorcycle. Yet his greatest achievement is becoming a father of Dorothy and James. Mr. Rogers is looking forward to building camaraderie and sustaining the professional network established by the NYS Master Teacher Program.
Kristen Rozell
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Northport-East Northport Union Free School District
Kristen Rozell earned her BA in Mathematical Sciences, cum laude, from Binghamton University and worked as a pension consultant for three years before completing her MS in Teaching from Pace University. Ms. Rozell teaches at her alma mater, Northport High School, where she credits her former mathematics teachers with inspiring her to study mathematics in college. In her 18- year teaching career, she has directed a dozen high school plays and musicals and has taught every level of grades 7-12 mathematics. She currently teaches Advanced Placement Calculus BC, International Baccalaureate Mathematics SL, and Algebra I. Ms. Rozell is a member of the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics, the Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS, and the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association. Ms. Rozell is excited to be a part of the NYS Master Teacher Program where she can share her passion for using hands-on, inquiry-based, and discovery learning techniques. She looks forward to collaborating with other teachers in the program to deepen her content knowledge and learn new pedagogical strategies that will improve student learning.
Thomas Shea
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Thomas Shea earned Bachelor of Science degrees in both Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from SUNY University at Buffalo, a Master of Science in Thermo-Fluid Dynamics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, an MBA from CW Post, and a Master of Arts in Education from Hofstra University. Mr. Shea also holds teaching certifications in secondary Mathematics, Technology and Business. Prior to teaching, Mr. Shea worked as a thermal analyst and test engineer for Lockheed Martin, ATK and Northrop Grumman on various military aircraft including classified hypersonic flight vehicles. In his nine years in the classroom, Mr. Shea has taught at both the middle and high school levels and engaged students in all four of the STEM components through the use of VEX robotics in the Technology classroom and independent research and technical studies in advanced Mathematics and Science Research survey courses. Mr. Shea currently teaches Algebra II and Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Civil Engineering and Architecture in Commack High School. He has been Advisor for MathCounts and Research Advisor and mentor for regional math and science fairs and competitions. Mr. Shea is very excited about participating in the NYS Master Teacher Program, and looks forward to learning from the experiences and expertise of his cohort as well as the statewide network.
Brian Strack
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Half Hollow Hills School District
Brian Strack earned his BA in Mathematics Secondary Education from St. Joseph’s College and MA in Liberal Arts from Stony Brook University. In the classroom 13 years, Mr. Strack teaches Introductory and Advanced Placement Computer Science at Half Hollow Hills High School East. Mr. Strack engages his students through collaborative problem based learning, providing meaningful activities which allow students to actively think about what they are doing. His professional interests focus on the integration of technology in the classroom, developing a growth mindset in students, and expanding participation in higher-level STEM courses to all student populations. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Strack is a member of the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association, Long Island Computer Science Teachers Association, as well as the Head Coach of the Varsity Girls Cross Country and Track & Field programs at Half Hollow Hills East. Mr. Strack looks forward to the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded STEM teachers throughout New York State in order to enhance the STEM experience for all students in the Half Hollow Hills community.
Jeanne Suttie
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Jeanne Suttie earned her BS in Environmental and Forest Biology with a minor in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology and Management from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, MS in Educational Technology from C.W. Post, and Master of Arts in Teaching in Earth Science from SUNY Stony Brook. Prior to teaching she was an Environmental Interpreter for New York State Parks – Long Island Region. In the classroom for 15 years, Ms. Suttie currently teaches Regents Living Environment, and a STEM elective class at Commack Middle School. She has created interdisciplinary projects each year to engage students school-wide in environmental conservation issues. She is currently one of the advisors for the S.T.R.E.A.M. club (formerly Science Research), and as a member of the District Literacy Committee, is a leader in literacy professional development for the department and the building. As Dr. Jane Goodall said, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” As a NYS Master Teacher, she is looking forward to continuing her growth as a teacher by collaborating with other Master Teachers and participating in professional development opportunities in order to bring best practices to her students.
Mitchel Troise Sr.
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Half Hollow Hills Central School District
Mitchel Troise Sr. earned his B.S. in Mathematics and Physics, M.A. in Mathematics, and M.S. in Secondary Education from the University at Albany. Mr. Troise holds New York teaching certifications in Secondary Mathematics and Physics and is a Project Lead the Way (PLTW) certified teacher in Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) and Principles of Engineering (POE). During his nine years in the classroom, Mr. Troise has taught all levels of Mathematics and presently teaches Regents Physics, PLTW IED and PLTW POE at Half Hollow Hills High School West. Mr. Troise engages students through collaborative problem-based learning using hands-on scaffolding activities that lead students to a level of metacognition in the STEM disciplines. He lives by the motto of Shifu, “If you only do what you can, you’ll never be more then you are now,” encouraging his students to step out of their comfort zone so that they can better themselves as learners and individuals. Mr. Troise serves as a member of the NYS Mathematics, Science, Technology and Supervision and Curriculum Development Associations along with their National affiliates, advises the FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics teams, coaches Girls Varsity Cross Country Coach, and District Pole Vault. Mr. Troise is excited to begin collaborating with teachers across the state and looks forward to helping STEM become more accessible to all.
Thomas Van Bell
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Huntington School District
Thomas Van Bell earned his BS in Chemistry and Master of Arts in Teaching in Chemistry from Stony Brook University, while he was an American Chemical Society-Hach scholarship recipient for pursuing science education certification. Mr. Van Bell has been teaching science since 2008, and currently teaches chemistry and forensic science at Huntington High School, where he also serves as advisor to the Regional Quiz Bowl team. Prior to working at Huntington, Mr. Van Bell served as chemistry and science research teacher for the East Williston and North Babylon school districts. Mr. Van Bell is proud to have experience working in different high schools, and serving an extremely diverse population of students. He spends every summer immersing himself in authentic science research programs and engaging with students, and has been involved with research programs at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Stony Brook University. He is a member of both the National Science Teachers Association and the Science Teachers Association of NYS. He looks forward to collaborating with other Master Teachers to deepen his knowledge of content and pedagogy, as well as to make deeper connections with the school community.
Bobby Varughese
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Commack Union Free School District
Bobby Varughese earned his BS in Mathematics from Stony Brook University and his MS in Secondary Education in Mathematics from Dowling College. Mr. Varughese is a life-long Commack resident and alumnus of Commack High School. He currently teaches International Baccalaureate Standard Level (Methods), College Calculus, and Intermediate Algebra at Commack High School, and has been an early adopter of collaborative learning software for his classes. An avid and competitive pool-billiard player, he competes at the local and national levels. Mr. Varughese is excited to be part of the NYS Master Teacher Program and feels that being part of a group of teachers that will spend the extra time to discuss the art and science of teaching and instructional methods to help colleagues will only help him become a better teacher. Since joining the Long Island region, Mr. Varughese has participated in mini-courses on geometry and statistics, and plans on working with a pre-service teacher next year.
Marlene Yolango
MASTER TEACHER EMERITUS
Northport-East Northport School District
Marlene Yolango earned her BS in Education from SUNY Geneseo Summa Cum Laude and her MS in Education from Hofstra University with a specialization in Reading with distinction. She is certified to teach General Science and Biology as well as Elementary Education, Special Education and Reading. She has been teaching in the Northport-East Northport School District for 19 years. Through these various certifications, Marlene has had the opportunity to share her love of science with children in many capacities. She has served as a push-in special education teacher in elementary classrooms where she often led the science lessons. She also was an advisor for the elementary science club. She is currently teaching inclusion and special class Living Environment at Northport High School where she tries to make science meaningful for students of all abilities. She is a strong believer in helping students find ways of learning that work for them. One of the things she loves most about teaching is all of the people she meets each year. Each student, parent, and new colleague shapes the way she teaches and thinks. She is very excited to be part of the Master Teacher Program where she will meet more educators with similar interests to share ideas and continue to grow.
