Martha Strever, a dedicated math teacher at Linden Avenue Middle School, has been honored with a national lifetime achievement award. She has taught at the same New York school for an incredible 65 years, starting in 1961. Strever grew up nearby and studied math at SUNY New Paltz before dedicating her career to the Red Hook Central School District. In July 2026, the American Federation of Teachers presented her with their Lifetime Achievement Award at their national convention in Washington D.C. She expressed surprise and gratitude, feeling humbled to be recognized among so many other great teachers. When she began teaching, her annual salary was about $4,400, which is around $31,000 today. Over the decades, Strever became a key figure in her community. In 1971, she was the first woman to lead the district's math department, a position she held for 49 years. She also helped start the Red Hook Faculty Association in 1973. She currently holds the record for the longest-serving active teacher in New York State and is a member of the New York State United Teachers. She has taught multiple generations of some families and has seen former students become school administrators. The current principal, Dr. Stacie Fenn Smith, was once her student. Red Hook Superintendent Dr. Janet Warden called her a reliable mentor and innovative leader. Strever introduced early computer technology to the school and trained colleagues. However, she worries that artificial intelligence might negatively impact students' critical thinking and creativity. She prefers student-centered teaching methods and uses visual aids to explain difficult concepts. She continues to evolve, currently focusing on special education with her colleague Christopher Wood. She has never taken a sick day and has no plans to retire. Her long career has been noted by media like CBS Mornings and USA Today, which named her among its 2025 Women of the Year. Strever remains focused on her students in Dutchess County, finding joy in their success.