William Floyd High School (WFHS) is sitting at the table of excellence once again.
WFHS Chemistry teacher, Dr. Martin Palermo, was selected for the New York State Education Department’s VITAL (Virtual Implementation of Teaching and Learning) Educator Program.
The VITAL Educator Program builds an educator’s capacity to transform learning by addressing students’ diverse needs, including students with disabilities, English Language Learners, social-emotional learning, and culturally responsive-sustaining education, through cutting-edge virtual strategies, innovative tools like AI, and more.
“I am very excited for this opportunity to learn cutting-edge strategies that can best support students’ diverse learning needs, while also addressing the challenges of increasing students’ digital literacy,” said Dr. Palermo.
“Mr. Palermo is a dynamic force in the classroom, blending creativity with cutting-edge technology to make chemistry come alive for his students. His innovative approach fosters an environment that encourages students to explore, experiment, and think critically. His leadership and enthusiasm not only shape future scientists but also cultivate a culture of collaboration and growth within the department,” said Christine Rosado, the director of secondary education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) for the William Floyd School District
Dr. Palermo will participate in an intensive six-month program designed to empower educators to champion virtual learning across New York.
Upon completion of the program, Dr. Palermo will earn official NYSED designation as a VITAL Educator as well as a $14,500 stipend, positioning him at the forefront of educational innovation.
Dr. Palermo is a highly decorated educator who has been the recipient of many accolades throughout his 18-year teaching career.
The Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS) recognized him as the 2024 Suffolk County High School Science Teacher of the Year in addition to selecting him for the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2022. He has also previously earned the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Program Award and was a nominee for the NYS Teacher of the Year Award in 2023.
He’s a published author, peer reviewer for science journals, and a New York State Master Teacher Emeritus. He was also one of only two educators across New York State selected to serve on the former governor’s re-opening advisory council after the COVID pandemic state-mandated school closures in 2020.
Dr. Palermo earned his PhD in science education, his Master’s degree in teaching science, and his Bachelor of Science degree in biology and chemistry at Stony Brook University.