Irvington Middle School Teacher Selected as a NYS Master Teacher

Middle School math teacher Elisha (Eli) Byers was named one of 104 educators from four regions to be selected as the inaugural group of New York State Master Teachers.

Governor Cuomo established the NY State Master Teacher Program to identify, reward and support master math and science teachers throughout New York State. The role of master teachers as professional mentors and content experts is key to developing the current cadre of outstanding educators as well as developing skilled future leaders. It is modeled after the successful Math for America (MfA) program currently operating in New York City and other sites nationwide.

Byers has been with the District since 2008. “I'm honored by the recognition and excited about the opportunity to continue to enhance my practice through collaboration with other educators from the region,” said Byers. “Mostly, though, I feel very fortunate to have worked with so many talented individuals throughout my career and to have found a professional home here in Irvington.”

“This is a prestigious recognition,” said Superintendent of Schools Kristopher Harrison.

“We are both honored and proud to have Eli as a teacher in the Irvington schools sharing his knowledge and talents with our Middle School students as well as his colleagues.”

Middle School Principal David Sottile was also pleased. “I’m thrilled to see Eli honored in this way,” he said. “It is a testament to the commitment to continuous learning and growth shown by the teachers at IMS.”

 In making the announcement, Governor Cuomo stated: “As part of our efforts to build a world-class education system in New York, the Master Teachers Program will allow this first group of talented teachers to assist their peers in the classroom, further develop their own expertise, and enhance the overall learning experience of our students for years to come.”

The first group of Master Teachers has nearly 1,500 years of combined full-time teaching experience and is comprised of 77 high school teachers, 21 middle school teachers and six with dual responsibilities. Subjects of expertise include calculus, algebra, physics, earth science, chemistry, engineering design and development, and mechanics.

If you would like to learn more about the NYS Master Teachers Program go to:

http://www.suny.edu/masterteacher/