Alfred University alumnus Chris Romanchock ’02, a grade 7-12 social studies teacher at Canisteo-Greenwood Central School, was named the 2025 New York State Rural Teacher of the Year.
The honor was presented to Romanchock by the Rural Schools Association of New York State (RSA-NY), an advocacy group for school districts in New York serving small and rural populations. RSA-NY representatives presented Romanchock with the honor at a ceremony at Canisteo-Greenwood on April 2.
Through its Rural Teacher of the Year Award, the Rural Schools Association of New York State seeks to highlight the wonderful level of teaching in rural school districts. In selecting a NYS Rural Teacher of the Year, the organization says it “spotlights the best among us, to inspire others and help increase the awareness of the value rural education brings to its communities.”
The Rural Teacher of the Year Award reflects Romanchock’s “unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence in education,” Thomas Crook, Canisteo-Greenwood superintendent, said in a story in the May 16 issue of The Evening Tribune.
“Mr. Romanchock consistently goes above and beyond to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for our students, both inside and outside the classroom,” said Crook. "His innovative teaching methods, positive attitude, and genuine care for each student make him an invaluable part of our school community. We are extremely fortunate to have him at Canisteo-Greenwood, and we couldn’t be more proud of this well-deserved recognition.”
According to the story, Romanchock knew he had been nominated for the award, but was surprised to learn—at the April 12 ceremony—that he had won.
“I had absolutely no idea,” he said. “It’s a thankless job, teaching. It’s kind of wild and a bit disorientating to be recognized for doing it.”
Romanchock, who earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Alfred University in 2002, is married to fellow Alfred University graduate Mechele Romanchock ’02, who is the university’s director of Libraries. He has served as an adjunct professor at Alfred University, teaching history and education classes, and has collaborated with Garrett McGowan, chemistry professor, on an honors program class, “Drinking Up: The Science and History of Alcohol.”
The Rural Teacher of the Year recognition comes with a $1,000 awarded to the teacher for their own classroom; a $2,000 awarded to the teacher to enhance the rural education program in their district; and a plaque for the school district to display. Romanchock will be the RSA-NY nominee for the National Rural Teacher of the Year award, facilitated by the National Rural Education Association.
