Recognized for Excellence: A Master Teacher in the Making

I strive to create a classroom where students are confident problem solvers and critical thinkers who feel empowered and supported to try things independently and view mistakes as opportunities for learning.

Julianne Weingarden, teacher at Winchester Academy

We are excited to highlight one of our dedicated teachers, Julianne Weingarden, who has been selected to participate in the New York State Master Teacher Program, an honor earned by educators who are committed to both strengthening their teaching and supporting student success. Through this opportunity, Mrs. Weingarden will learn new instructional strategies, collaborate with other educators across New York State, and bring fresh approaches back into her classroom.

A beloved teacher at Winchester Academy, Mrs. Weingarden shares in the Q&A below what this experience means for her students, how it helps her better support diverse learners, and why continued learning is so important for creating engaging, meaningful classroom experiences.

What are your goals throughout your time in the program and after?

My goals are to continue growing as an educator while discovering new strategies, programs, and materials that enhance and strengthen my instruction. I strive to create a classroom where students are confident problem solvers and critical thinkers who feel empowered and supported to try things independently and view mistakes as opportunities for learning. Additionally, I hope to share the knowledge and practices I gain with my colleagues and other educators to support collaboration and continued growth within our school community.

What strengths do you feel special education teachers bring to statewide programs like this one?

Special education teachers bring a unique and positive perspective to education. We recognize and celebrate small gains as meaningful growth, understanding that each step forward matters. We are skilled at adapting and differentiating lessons to meet the diverse learning styles, strengths, and needs of all students, ensuring that every learner has equitable opportunities to succeed.

In what ways do you feel this opportunity is helping you grow as an educator and as a leader?

I am very new to the program, but I can already feel myself growing as an educator. Collaborating with others and learning from their experiences is incredibly empowering. After learning about building thinking classrooms, I went home that same night and stayed up late developing a plan to implement it in my own classroom. When we as educators continue to learn and grow, the possibilities for our students are endless. I truly want what is best for my students and strive to provide them with the tools, strategies, and meaningful experiences they need to succeed throughout their school careers.

How will your participation in the program directly benefit your students?  

I hope my students feel my excitement for learning each day. I truly love teaching, learning, and sharing my passion with my students. I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to take risks in their learning. As a K–2 teacher, it is especially important to keep learning fun, engaging, and meaningful. Through the Master Teacher Program, I have already gained many valuable resources and ideas that I can immediately bring into my classroom to enhance student learning.

What do you want our school community to know about the importance of programs like this for teaching and learning? 

I would have never discovered this amazing program if it were not for a friend who is currently participating in it. This experience has shown me how important it is to spread the word about opportunities like this. Too often, educators can become complacent after completing their degrees, especially once they have earned a master’s. Programs like this reignite excitement for teaching and reinforce the importance of continuous learning and professional growth. The presenters I learn from are true masters of both content and pedagogy, and the energy that follows each session is incredibly motivating. It is an experience I wish all my colleagues had the opportunity to share.

If anyone is interested in learning more about this program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. The program is only as strong as its members, and I truly believe it is worth the time and effort; I am more than happy to offer guidance and support to anyone considering applying. Everything I have gained from this program, from resources to professional growth and inspiration, has been invaluable, and I want others to have the same opportunity to benefit.