I read this article from veteran teacher Gino Sangiuliano which exemplifies what can be done when reformers give master teachers opportunities to use their expertise in creative ways.

I will quote, “Rhode Island used a portion of its Race to the Top grant to launch a statewide induction program aimed at supporting first-year educators. The state enlisted the services of the New Teacher Center, a national nonprofit whose philosophy is simple: to accelerate the effectiveness of new teachers. Through the induction program, carefully selected and trained veteran teachers provide weekly sessions of one-on-one mentoring to those new to the classroom.It was important that I obtain tangible evidence that my work was having a positive impact on teacher success and ultimately student achievement,” said Sangiuliano. 

From what I read, I can dare say that Sangiuliano is the kind of master teacher that any novice educator would hope for: reliable, communicative, and paying attention on what matters. This is what one master teacher that can be relied upon to pass effective teaching techniques to novice educators.

Other than as coaches, how else can master teachers be used to improve their learning communities? Mentoring is one great way. Of course, sharing useful materials is also helpful and highly recommended. One on one coaching can also be very fruitful.

What a novice should actually do is approach properly and asks to be mentored. Sometimes, master teachers are willing to help but the new ones lack the initiative to ask. There are master teachers however, who are very open and even offers help. Let us maximize their offer  to help for our improvement.

By: Grace M. Ruiz | Teacher III | Balut Elementary School | Orion, Bataan