I am the New York State Teacher of the Year 2012. I am not the best teacher in the state, though, or even my building. I am, however, a teacher who had the 2nd best New York State Teacher of the Year application, and the best interview. I am also a good teacher. That's right, I said it! Sometimes humility is best left at the front door. The thing is, everywhere I look- down the hall, next door, in the other wing, I see good teachers. Actually, I see great teachers! We are great teachers, who deserve to be recognized. I initially applied for NYS TOY because I felt it was a different and great way to reflect on myself as a teacher. I could apply because I was Schenectady Teacher of the Year. I became Schenectady TOY because I created and submitted a portfolio to represent my teaching- yet another great way for self-reflection. I could submit that portfolio because someone nominated me for the Schenectady TOY. So it all boils down to one person in my district taking the time to nominate me.
I realize that every district in our state has a different nomination process. Some may not even have any process. That doesn’t change the fact that there are amazing teachers out there who deserved to be recognized and represent all that is great in our profession.
When I created my NYS TOY application I didn't expect to win. But I did think: it could be me.
Could you be your district’s TOY? You could be.
Could your neighbor be your district’s TOY? He could be.
Could that person also be the next NYS TOY? She could be.
The application for NYS Teacher of the Year is now accessible at
We are great. Let's nominate.
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