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Educational Design & Technology

Educators

VITAL Educator Program

Virtual Implementation of Teaching and Learning

The New York State Education Department seeks to build expertise in the teaching and administration of virtual/hybrid schools, programs, and courses. The VITAL (Virtual Implementation of Teaching and Learning) Educator Program intends to develop a cadre of expert, or VITAL, educators who are able to turnkey professional learning content to colleagues throughout the state. 

VITAL Educators will build their capacity to transform learning by addressing students’ diverse needs- including students with disabilities, English Language Learners, social emotional learning (SEL), and culturally responsive-sustaining education (CRSE)—through cutting-edge virtual learning strategies, innovative tools like AI, and more. This intensive 6- month program offers dynamic online modules, collaboration in Professional Learning York’s Community (PLC) cohorts, and coaching sessions, all designed to empower New York's educators to champion virtual learning across the state. Upon successful completion, VITAL Educators will earn NYSED designation as a VITAL Educator and a $14,500 stipend, positioned at the forefront of educational innovation.

2025 NYS Vital Educator Application

To be eligible for program admission, educators must be currently employed by a public school district, BOCES, charter school, non-public school, or college or university within New York State. Applications will be evaluated on criteria including, but not limited to, the following:

Download VITAL Educator
Program Flyer
  • Teaching/administrative/support staff experience
  • Experience teaching/administrating/supporting virtual & hybrid learning
  • Willingness to champion virtual & hybrid learning as a means for more equitable access to high-quality instruction beyond the training period
  • Experience delivering professional learning to adults
  • Regional representation

Questions about the VITAL Educator Program can be sent to VITAL@nysed.gov.

VITAL Educator Program Requirements

Attend VITAL Kick-off Event:

Participate in a virtual kickoff event to launch the program (details TBD).

Complete an intensive 6-month program:

Engage in online modules focused on innovative virtual learning strategies, including AI integration, supporting students with disabilities, English Language Learners, social-emotional learning (SEL), and culturally responsive-sustaining education (CRSE).

Collaborate in Professional Learning Community (PLC) cohorts:

Participate in small group collaboration with fellow educators to enhance your learning experience.

Attend small-group coaching sessions:

Receive ongoing support to help you implement virtual learning strategies and develop a professional development plan.

Develop a Personal Professional Learning Plan:

Create a comprehensive professional learning plan for infusing virtual learning strategies in your professional practice.

Create a Training Plan:

Showcase your learning by designing a professional learning session for colleagues.

VITAL Educator Program FAQ

Application: 

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include teachers, school/district administrators, support staff (e.g., instructional coaches, social workers), and educators employed by public schools, BOCES, charter schools, independent or religious schools, non-public schools and higher education institutions (both public and private) in New York State.

What should my short answer response include?

Your answer should include a minimum of 2 sentences but provide enough detail to show your interest, commitment, and experience with virtual learning.

Can I still participate if I'm on leave or retire?

Yes, as long as you remain employed during the program or are committed to championing virtual learning post-retirement.

Is there an education requirement?

No specific certification is required, but education and endorsements will be considered.

CTLE Credits:

Will I earn CTLE credits?

Yes, CTLE credits will be awarded based on completed modules.

Program Content and Format:

What will the program involve?

The 6-month program includes online modules (asynchronous), small group collaboration (PLC cohorts), and personalized coaching sessions. Synchronous meetings will reinforce content.

Do I need to create my own training materials?

No, you will use provided content from the modules to develop training plans.

Time Commitment:

How much time is required?

The total time commitment will not exceed 100 hours from January to June. Synchronous meetings will take place after school hours (no earlier than 3:30 pm), with no make-ups expected.

Post-program Expectations:

What happens after the program ends?

VITAL Educators will be recognized as VITAL Trainers and listed on the NYSED website as approved trainers. There is no additional compensation, but you will be expected to continue supporting virtual learning.

VITAL Program Calendar

Event Date
Application window closes October 13, 2024
VITAL Educator Orientation January 2025
Module completion and focus group window January 2025- March 2025
Turnkey trainer session window April 2025 - May 2025
Training (Coaching) window May 2025 - June 2025
VITAL Event July 2025