Governor Kathy Hochul announced on March 30 that applications are now open for the Master Teacher Program and Master Counselors, which recognize more than 1,600 public school teachers and counselors across New York State. Those selected will serve as mentors to students and early-career educators. The application deadline is May 21, and interested teachers can apply at suny.edu/masterteacher.
The program aims to highlight the contributions of outstanding educators while providing them with opportunities for professional development and leadership within their fields. Participants receive a $15,000 annual stipend over four years, engage in peer mentoring, work closely with new teachers and counselors, and attend regional meetings focused on professional growth.
“I am grateful to our state’s exceptional teachers and counselors who dedicate their careers to inspiring and educating the next generation of New Yorkers,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “By promoting these outstanding individuals through the Master Teachers and Master Counselors Program, I hope more New Yorkers will celebrate the teachers from every corner of our state who have stepped up and excelled in their roles as educators and mentors.”
The program is hosted at nine State University of New York (SUNY) campuses where faculty collaborate with local STEM industry experts. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, ”As the largest educator of teachers in the state, SUNY is proud to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to provide robust support for educators and counselors shaping the next generation in the classroom and beyond. Throughout its history, the program has recognized the most effective education leaders, and we look forward to welcoming a class of new esteemed members.” The SUNY Board of Trustees added: “The Master Teacher and Master Counselor program honors the brightest minds in K-12 education… We are proud to support this program…to support New York’s students at every phase – from kindergarten to high school graduation.” Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman also praised Governor Hochul’s leadership in strengthening teacher preparation programs.
Master Teachers provide instruction across science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), computer science fields such as robotics or coding, integrated STEM subjects, agricultural education from kindergarten through high school levels; many have been recognized locally for their work with students. Meanwhile Master Counselors hold additional certifications or training—over half possess credentials such as Disability Services or National Board certification—and play key roles helping high school seniors complete financial aid forms like FAFSA.
This initiative forms part of Governor Hochul’s broader agenda supporting New York’s teaching workforce through updates like aligning educator preparation programs with evidence-based literacy principles known as “Science of Reading” as well as investments in paraprofessional upskilling programs.
