Clarence Teacher Daniel Graf Named to New York State Master Teacher Program

As he was inducted into New York State’s Master Teacher Program, Clarence High School physics teacher Daniel Graf said he looked forward to working with teachers across the region to grow as an educator.

“The Master Teacher Program is not a pedestal upon which the best teachers are placed, but rather an opportunity to keep learning and grow as an educator,” Graf said. “It’s a license to learn.”

Graf, who has taught at the High School since 2008, was one of 177 STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) teachers state-wide selected this year for the four-year program. Teachers in the program have the opportunity to be a part of professional development with other educators in the region and mentor developing and early career professionals. 

The 1999 Clarence High School graduate said his path to the classroom began as he studied engineering in college, realizing he had another path in mind.

“I didn’t want to be an engineer,” he said. “I liked working with kids, working with other people. Teaching seemed like a good fit.”

He joined the staff in Clarence after time spent teaching at Lyndonville and Hornell. In his physics class, Graf enjoys showing students the real-life applications of their physics studies, such as how eyeglasses work through the refraction, or bending of light. 

“Anybody who’s naturally curious about how things work can love physics,” he said. “It’s showing how science helps people and makes life better.”

The selection for the program comes after months of applications and interviews reflecting his knowledge of science concepts, teaching and the school community.  In addition to his work as a teacher, Graf directs the school’s rifle club, and has previously coached track and field. Daniel and his wife Keri, an art teacher at the High School, have three children, Kaylie, Hannah and Daniel.

In a news release announcing this year’s class, Governor Kathy Hochul praised the newly selected members of the program for their role in developing students.

"Educators play a vital role in preparing the next generation for a successful future by not only teaching them, but also by caring for them at every stage of their education," Hochul said. "I am proud to celebrate the exceptional teachers and counselors who are making an impact on New York State's students every day. We are grateful to our educators for their dedication to New York's children."

Other Clarence teachers who have been named to the program in previous years include Jennifer Ayers, Kelly Goliszek, Michelle Layer, Kathleen Sugg, Pamela Urbanek, Deborah Wehrlin and Sean Murray.

More information about the program can be found at https://www.suny.edu/masterteacher/.