Hochul announces 'major enhancements' to teacher support & education workforce programs

Educator Career Development Ambassador Program opens applications for summer intensive training

√ $12.4 million in new round of funding for Empire State Teacher Residency Program

Gov. Hochul announced “major advancements” in two New York educational initiatives designed to strengthen the state’s teaching workforce.

The first initiative is the expansion of the Educator Career Development Ambassador Program, a four-week summer training for teachers, librarians and counselors in grades 6-12. Hochul also announced the third round of awards for the Empire State Teacher Residency Program, totaling $12.4 million in funding.

“Our kids deserve the best possible education, and that starts with investing in our teachers,” Hochul said. “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.”

The Educator Career Development Ambassador Program, administered by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) in collaboration with the New York State Education Department (NYSED), aims to enhance career-readiness in students. As part of the program, which aligns with the Blue Ribbon Commission report on graduation requirements, educators create lesson plans focusing on professional development, industry exploration, and skill development.

As part of her State of the State address, Hochul called on NYSDOL to double the program’s capacity, citing its previous success. With 60 positions available this summer, the program prioritizes those serving historically underserved communities.

Experienced educators and staff can apply. Successful participants will receive NYSDOL certification and continuing teacher and leadership education (CTLE) credits. Further details and application information are available on the program website or by emailing [email protected].

New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Our teachers are the embers that ignite and inspire in our students a passion for lifelong learning that transcends the classroom. This substantial investment underscores our commitment to expanding the teacher pipeline, ensuring New York’s students a brighter future through high-quality instruction. Working with our partners in government, we remain committed to expanding sustainable models to attract and retain world-class educators.”

Meanwhile, the Empire State Teacher Residency Program, part of a $30 million initiative launched last October, is providing $12 million to the New York City Department of Education to support 400 teacher residents pursuing master’s degrees or certification, and $442,930 to Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES to support 15 residents.