Governor Hochul announced new investments in teacher training and development on Wednesday in a renewed effort to support the NYS education workforce.

The plan includes advancements in two initiatives: first, the Educator Career Development Ambassador Program. It's a project to enhance career-readiness in student through training for teachers, librarians, and counselors in grades 6-12. The program includes a four-week summer program to help educators create lesson plans focusing on professional development, industry exploration, and skill development. Starting this summer, the program will have doubled capacity.

“Our teachers are the embers that ignite and inspire in our students a passion for lifelong learning that transcends the classroom,” said New York State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa. “This substantial investment underscores our commitment to expanding the teacher pipeline, ensuring New York’s students a brighter future through high-quality instruction."

The state is also providing $12.4 million in funding for the third round of awards for the Empire State Teacher Residency Program. The program supports 400 teacher residents pursuing master’s degrees or certification, aiming to diversify the state’s teachers and improve teacher retention.

Governor Hochul stated, “Our kids deserve the best possible education, and that starts with investing in our teachers. By creating pathways for current and future educators to enhance their skills, we are reinforcing our commitment to our public servants and to preparing young people for the robust opportunities that await them.”

To learn more about these programs, visit dol.ny.gov/educator-ambassador-program or bit.ly/4bArC7O.