William Floyd High School chemistry teacher Dr. Martin Palermo recently added to his distinguished list of accolades as he was selected to receive the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Program Award, a statewide program that recognizes those who demonstrate an impressive skillset as an educator and a commitment to success for all of their students. Dr. Palermo will receive a $5,000 stipend to apply toward professional learning opportunities that will aid in further supporting student knowledge and growth. He is one of 54 educators statewide selected for this honor and only one of nine on Long Island.
“I am honored and humbled by this recognition, and I look forward to my continued professional growth,” said Dr. Palermo. “Working at William Floyd for the last 16 years has been a great experience, as I have had the opportunity to work alongside some of the best educators in the state. I am thankful for the continued support from administration and parents, and I am most grateful for my students who continue to inspire me on a daily basis.”
An award-winning educator throughout his years of teaching in the William Floyd School District, Dr. Palermo recently earned his PhD in science education at Stony Brook University. He is also a New York State Master Teacher Emeritus, published author and a peer-reviewer for science journals. He is a past recipient of the Stony Brook University “40 Under Forty” award and was one of only two educators statewide selected to serve on the governor’s New York State re-opening advisory council.
“Dr. Martin Palermo being recognized for his achievements in educational instruction in the past, and earning The Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award further validates his years of hard work and sacrifice for the teaching profession,” said Dr. Luisa McHugh, science chairperson, William Floyd High School, who is also a NYS Master Teacher Emeritus and a published author. “It is not every teacher who is chosen to win an excellence in teaching award, as it requires going above and beyond the regular duties of a teacher to truly make an impact on a school, district and community. Marty has earned the admiration of his students by always having their best interests in mind. He does not rely on strictly traditional methods of teaching, but instead finds creative ways to make science accessible to his students by staying up-to-date with the best practices to enhance instruction.”
Dr. Palermo is the second William Floyd teacher to receive this award – WFHS chemistry teacher Kristen Drury was selected among the first round of recipients in 2016.