NYSUT ELT simplifies graduate work for members

fter six years as an elementary teacher, Kenneth Aubin had a calling to teach middle schoolers.

“I have always felt that I worked better with the older end of the spectrum of students,” said Aubin, a member of the Green Island Teachers Association. “I like the depth of conversations that you can have with middle schoolers and listening to how they process things.”

To update his certification, Aubin took a 10-week college course, “Middle Childhood and Adolescent Development” over the summer using NYSUT’s ELT graduate education program. He was able to finish the coursework just in time to teach middle school math this fall — and all at a fraction of what the course would usually cost.

“It was nice having the percent discount because of my NYSUT membership,” said Aubin. “It made it much more affordable.”

For decades, NYSUT ELT has been partnering with higher education institutions to deliver high-quality graduate education programs to members, on their terms, at prices they can afford. Educators who are looking to make the move from initial to professional certification can choose from an array of master’s degree programs at Mercy University or Empire State University — all offered conveniently online.

Educators can also complete additional certifications to advance their careers, including in-demand titles like School Counselor, Career and Technical Education, Literacy, and TESOL. All ELT courses have been reviewed and approved by the New York State Education Department, plus many are offered on accelerated schedules.

Members say they appreciate the fact that ELT instructors are veteran educators themselves.

Melissa Hrycko, a pre-K teacher and member of the Weedsport TA, is pursuing her Students with Disabilities certificate and has taken multiple graduate-level courses through ELT.

“I wanted to deepen my understanding of special education law, assessment, intervention, and inclusive practices so I can better support children,” she said. “The experience has been engaging, practical, and immediately applicable to my work as a pre-K teacher.”

“The most valuable aspect of ELT has been its flexibility and the quality of the instruction,” said Hrycko. “As a full-time teacher, I appreciate being able to balance coursework with my professional responsibilities.”