Elwood Educator Named Master Teacher In New York State

ELWOOD, NY — Elizabeth Held, a third-grade teacher at Elwood’s James H. Boyd Intermediate School, was named a New York State Master Teacher by the governor’s office, the Elwood School District announced.

Held's exemplary work in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math education was recognized.

"I am so excited to collaborate with other Master Teachers and to participate in the wonderful professional development opportunities available,” Held said via news release. "I am looking forward to sharing what I learn with my colleagues and students."

The NYS Master Teacher program, which began in 2013, recognizes outstanding K-12 STEM educators who demonstrate a deep understanding of their content area, pedagogy, and students’ families and communities as well as a commitment to growth in these areas in order to provide the most innovative and inspiring STEM education for all students.

Held earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from SUNY Albany; her master’s in elementary education at Adelphi University; and a professional certificate in school administration and supervision from Queens College.

She began her career in 1994 as a special education teacher in Queens. In 1996, she began teaching in Elwood and has taught at Boyd for the past 25 years.

Held has received more than 35 grants which have brought more than $75,000 to Elwood, funding exciting educational opportunities for students. With some of these funds, she helped to create a "makerspace" and started an afterschool club. Combining her passion for creativity and STEM, she created several different “STEM Days,” giving students the chance to experience memorable events such as Cranberry Day, Potato Olympics, and Glow Day while collaborating and problem-solving.

A Commack resident, Held has won several awards, including the Empire State Award for Excellence in Teaching, ASSET Bright Light and the Western Suffolk BOCES Teacher Integration award. She also has presented to many audiences about the use of technology in school and is a longtime member of Elwood’s District Technology Committee.

"What an honor for Elizabeth and our district," Elwood Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bossert stated.