Westhampton Beach Middle School science teacher Greg Izzo has been named a New York State Master Teacher and high school counselor Erika Habersaat as a New York State Master Counselor.

“The district is very proud of Greg Izzo and Erika Habersaat,” said Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Probst. “Both of these educators are constantly refining the craft for the benefit of our students. It is exciting to see that kind of hard work and commitment to excellence recognized by New York State.”

To earn the master distinctions, Izzo and Habersaat were required to have letters of recommendation submitted on their behalf, take a high-level content exam, and participate in individual and panel interviews. They both started the process in January 2024.

With the master titles, Izzo and Habersaat will engage in four years of networking and professional development opportunities with colleague from across the region.

“I'm extremely excited for the Master Teacher Program, as it will allow for rigorous professional development with other Long Island master teachers for the next four years,” said Izzo. “I will bring newly gained knowledge and experiences back into my earth science classroom, which I hope will excite students to pursue STEM pathways in the future.”

Izzo has taught in the middle school for the past 14 years. He previously taught in the Port Washington School District.

Likewise, Habersaat said she is “looking forward to networking with other counselors in New York and the professional development opportunities.”

Habersaat has been working as a counselor in Westhampton Beach for 18 years. She was previously an academic and career adviser at Kingsborough Community College.

Date Added: 11/19/2024