Musketeer Monday Part One: Michael Soldano

Welcome to Musketeer Monday, a weekly series in which we feature students and staff around the Central Islip School District. If you’re interested in nominating a fellow Musketeer, please click the link below to submit your nomination:

Musketeer Monday Form

Musketeer Monday Part One: Michael Soldano, Science Teacher, Central Islip High School

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: I work at Central Islip High School teaching Science Research and Living Environment.

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: This is my seventh year as a full-time teacher.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: When I was in college, I had the opportunity to work as an undergraduate teaching assistant for a biology lab class. I enjoyed designing the course with my professor and helping the students. My mom was also a teacher, so I always had the thought of teaching in mind.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: The students I get to work with are amazing, with a special shoutout to those in Science Research. Watching my students push themselves and experiencing the camaraderie we have in class makes me never want to miss a day.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Giving my students the opportunity to explore and push themselves academically. I love when my students are excited that they discovered something new, see their research come together, and build confidence in themselves when presenting their work.

Q: What are a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: Last year, being my first year teaching Science Research, many of my students were rewarded for their science projects. Six students won honors, including two who won the Long Island Water Quality Challenge. I know how hard they work in class, and they always deserve to be acknowledged for their accomplishments.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: I have to mention the entire science department. They are always there to share ideas, collaborate, and listen when I have a new idea related to teaching science. I also need to give a special shoutout to Mrs. Roderick for all of her hard work setting up the Science Research program and for trusting me with it.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: I love the end-of-year senior events. Senior BBQ, Senior Walk-Through, Prom, Graduation, and the food trucks all feel like the perfect farewell to students who have worked so hard throughout high school.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up in Deer Park and attended Deer Park High School.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them.
A: My favorite book series is the Ender’s Game series by Orson Scott Card, but I enjoy anything in the science fiction or fantasy genres.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don’t.” — Bill Nye

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: Outside of school, I like to go for runs and watch soccer.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: Rosalind Franklin. I have always found historical scientists and mathematicians interesting because of their original discoveries, and I would love to talk with any of them.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: I originally pursued scientific research and fieldwork, collecting environmental data throughout the world, so I would probably be an environmental researcher. Luckily, I am getting the best of both worlds in Central Islip.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: I want to run a marathon.