4/31/2022

OHS Teacher Recognized as NYS Master Teacher

Peter Gillander holds a drone from his technology class

Peter Gillander, one of the technology teachers at Oneida High School, has recently been recognized as a New York State Master Teacher.

Gillander will now be part of a collaboration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teachers across New York State that share best practices, new ideas and STEM content.

The process of becoming a NYS Master Teacher is long and challenging, but well worth the effort. According to the State University of New York website, NYS Master Teachers must have at least four years of teaching experience, have a course load of at least 60% STEM content and must be rated effective or highly effective on their Annual Professional Performance Review. Beyond that, NYS Master Teachers must complete a lengthy and intricate application and interview process in order to be considered.

Gillander’s favorite part about being recognized as a NYS Master Teacher so far is the opportunity to connect with other teachers in STEM.

“I’ve gotten to collaborate with teachers all over the Central New York area,” Gillander said. “Getting an outside perspective gives me a new background to pull into the classroom.”

Gillander is also excited to work with other professionals that are interested in the same subjects as him, like environmental solutions and conservation. Additionally, Gillander will be able to work and collaborate with university professors and doctors in STEM.

Currently, Gillander is working on drone technology in his classes, including building F450 drones and automated flight planning which relies on GPS, like Amazon drone delivery.

Gillander’s colleagues are proud of his achievement. David Wright, another technology teacher at Oneida High School, has great admiration for Gillander’s abilities as a teacher.

“Pete has helped the technology program by starting a drone program that offers students the ability to gain college credit from MVCC, and students have the ability to pursue their pilot license in the operating of drones commercially,” Wright said.

Wright is also optimistic for the opportunities that the recognition of Gillander as a Master Teacher holds for the technology program at Oneida High School.

“Being a Master Teacher has given Pete and the technology program a gateway to current and innovative programs, activities and knowledge that will push the students to have a better understanding of the practices and concepts used in industry,” Wright said.

Sheena Britton, another NYS Master Teacher at Oneida High School, says that the New York State Master Teacher Program (NYSMTP) will be a great opportunity for Gillander.

“I am very excited for Pete to be part of the NYSMTP, and he is very deserving,” Britton said. “The NYSMTP is an amazing program that brings together some of the most innovative STEM educators in the state allowing for collaboration and innovation in education.”