Mahopac Central School District is proud to announce the addition of two exceptional educators to the growing list of Master Teachers: Austin Road STEAM teacher Patricia Huestis and Mahopac High School physics teacher Dennis Quackenbush. Both teachers, who began their four-year commitment to the Master Teacher program in January, recently participated in their second program meeting furthering their professional development and educational expertise.
The Master Teacher program offers educators a unique opportunity to engage in high-level professional development, including collaboration with colleagues from other districts and a focus on current trends and challenges in education. Huestis, who teaches at the elementary level, shared how invaluable it has been to connect with high school science educators.
“As an elementary school teacher, it’s crucial to have a foundation of where our students need to be when they transition into high school science,” Huestis said. “By collaborating with high school teachers, I’ve gained insight into how we can better support our students during the early stages of their educational path and ensure they are prepared for these advanced programs.”
Quackenbush focused his professional development on understanding the challenges facing today’s classrooms. As part of his participation, he engaged in a Collegial Circle centered on the impact of modern technology on students’ mental health. One of the key topics discussed was “The Anxious Generation,” a book by Jonathan Haidt, which explores the rise in mental health issues among young people, attributed to the proliferation of smartphones, social media and overprotective parenting.
“The data supporting the removal of cell phones in schools is compelling,” Quackenbush said. “Mahopac has already implemented cell phone caddies at the high school, and we are collecting data on how reducing digital distractions can improve student focus. I look forward to sharing these findings with our administration.”
Huestis and Quackenbush are joining an impressive group of educators who have earned the distinction of Master Teacher within the Mahopac CSD. These dedicated professionals exemplify the district’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence.
The full list of Master Teachers includes:
James Carroll, Master Teacher
Jennifer Cauthers, Master Teacher
Tricia Johnson, Master Teacher Emeritus
Patricia “Trish” Huestis, Master Teacher
Kelley Posch, Master Teacher
Dennis Quackenbush, Master Teacher
Michael Mahoney, Master Teacher Emeritus
Frank Rizzo, Master Teacher
Elizabeth Stephens, Master Teacher Emeritus
Szilvia Tobak, Master Teacher