Amazon Names LI Educator As 'Future Engineer Teacher of the Year'

CENTRAL ISLIP, NY — A Central Islip teacher has been nationally recognized for his professional accomplishments.

Darren Ehrhardt, a Central Islip High School technology educator, is one of 10 in the country to be selected for the “2022 Amazon Future Engineer Teacher of the Year” award.

The educator was recently honored for his recognition at the Town of Islip's July town board meeting by Supervisor Angie Carpenter, town officials, and Superintendent Sharon Dungee.

“We are so fortunate in the Town of Islip to have many outstanding educators who guide our future generation," said Carpenter.

According to its website, the Amazon award celebrates "all-star teachers who are working diligently to help students in underserved and underrepresented communities discover all the possibilities computer science and robotics bring for the future."

Having served in the Central Islip School District since 2004, Ehrhardt has helped jumpstart a new high school technology curriculum, as well as bring AP courses in computer science and “principles of engineering,” allowing Central Islip high school students the opportunity to earn college credit.

For his selection as a “2022 Amazon Future Engineer Teacher of the Year,” the Central Islip School District has received more than $30,000 to further expand computer science and/or robotics education programs.

"We are thrilled to recognize Darren Ehrhardt for bringing home this award to our town, and very proud to honor his extraordinary dedication to our Islip students,” said Carpenter.