Teacher Feature: Mr. Sciortino
Grace Strelow
Mr. Sciortino is this year's first teacher feature! He spent his first 19 years teaching at a rival school, Brookfield East High School, and he has been at Hamilton for the past 9. He graduated from UW-Stevens Point for his undergraduate degree and Viterbo for his master's degree.
Here at Hamilton Mr. Sciortino teaches math classes and through his time here he has become close with many of the other teachers. Mr. Krill states, “I've worked with Joe for several years as ‘neighbors.’ We actually shared a door that connected our rooms. We also shared a hole in the wall (originally used for a cord bundle). Some of my first conversations with him were related to the notes my students would pass to him through the hole. Things like "So bored" to "You like tacos?" really brightened his day and gave me some solid feedback on my teaching. But, even better, it meant we'd find time to chat. I learned of his infamous deadpan quotes to motivate students. I finally understood why his room was so noisy - he has fun games planned almost every day! As a sports enthusiast, he'd weave much of his wisdom garnered from coaching into his lessons. He's a down-to-earth, caring cheerleader for all of his students. His room is full of energy, laughter, and learning. Make sure to stop by to give him a fist bump and find out his favorite notes from the wall hole.”
Sciortino is not only a math teacher, but he also helps out with the SAS program and is a friend of Mr. Seely. Seely adds, “Mr. Sciortino has been a Hamilton staple for years now. It is clear to me, through conversations with many students, that Mr. Sciortino is a Hamilton favorite! Students enjoy teachers with a personality and Mr. Sciortino has one that simply draws people in. His sense of humor and willingness to connect to our students are 2 traits that Hamilton students really enjoy about him. We are extremely lucky to have Mr. Sciortino on staff, he has a wealth of teaching experience and knowledge and has given me direction many times in the past. Here's to hoping Mr. Sciortino is around to benefit Hamilton students and staff for years to come. Lastly, Mr. Sciortino is a heck of an inside/ outside threat on the basketball court!”
When Sciortino is not teaching he likes to spend time with his family. Some students may have had Mrs. Sciortino, as she has taught kindergarten and first grade at Woodside (it seems like great teachers run in the family). He has two kids, a daughter, Alexis, and a son, Cole. Alexis graduated from UW-Lacrosse in 2018 with a psychology degree. Now she is working to become a school psychologist, by completing a graduate degree at UWM. Cole is a senior at a neighboring rival school, Menomonee Falls High School. He enjoys working out and playing basketball. He is also interested in business for a career, after graduation.
Read on to hear more from Mr. Sciortino!
What got you interested in teaching?
I had a captivating history teacher in high school who amazed me with his talents and how he could conduct a classroom. I also had great admiration for my defensive coordinator in college as he modeled what a great teacher and person looked like. I went off to school with an original interest in radio and TV, but one day I was cutting through an academic building to avoid the extreme elements outside and I walked by an education job board. The information stated that 100% of their math education majors were employed. I thought that was a pretty good percentage. I then began my journey to becoming a math teacher and coach.
If you won 100 million dollars what would you buy first?
I would build a compound for my family and closest friends in an undisclosed location. I have been in a Powerball club for years (unsuccessfully) so I have had a lot of time to plan!
What weapon would you carry during the Zombie Apocalypse? Who would you team up with and why?
Honestly, I had to do some research about how to survive a zombie apocalypse. I would team up with Deadpool as he seems quite gifted in wielding many weapons and seems quite entertaining during battle.
What would you change about Hamilton and why?
The staff dress code. I fear for my job security if I answer why.
What is the best advice you have received?
From my father: “Find something you love to do and then find someone who loves paying you to do it.”
If you could get rid of a color what would it be?
Chicago Cubs blue and Minnesota Vikings purple
What is your favorite age group to teach (freshmen, sophomores, etc)? Why?
All groups present their rewards and challenges. I do like having repeat customers who have matured the second time I have them in a course.
What is your second favorite subject? (besides the one you are teaching now)
History. I love a great story of perseverance and success. I get great recommendations from Mrs. Gorski in the IMC.
What is your favorite TV show? Movie?
I still enjoy Seinfeld to this day. As a child of the 80’s, I am quite fond of the many comedies that were released during that time. If you had to pin me down to one choice, I would choose Sixteen Candles.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years?
In 5 years I will be completing my final year as an educator. I am excited to put closure to my career but also don’t want to wish that time away. In 10 years I hope to be happy, healthy, and taking great pride in the pursuits of my kids. In 20 years, I hope to be cheering my grandkids on in whatever they choose to participate in. Both of the 10 and 20 year goals will be spent in the compound I built after winning the Powerball!
If you could change classrooms with anyone in the building who would it be?
Not certain you can replace the friendly confines of room 6. During my first two years at Hamilton, I did not have a home and had to push a plastic desk on wheels from room to room. I did enjoy teaching in the science classrooms as I could take advantage of the lab tables for group work as well as the individual desks.
What’s your favorite food?
I love pulled-pork nachos. First thing I look for on a menu if we are going out to eat.
If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and with who?
I would like to visit Hawaii and there is no doubt I would travel with Mrs. Sciortino.
What would you rather do: meet your future self or go back in time and talk with your past self? Why?
I have had many roles in my life: Teacher, Head Football Coach, Father, Husband…I think I would go back in time and talk to my past self to remind myself to keep my priorities in check. I would challenge my former self to align my decisions with my core values of honesty and integrity.
What mystery do you wish you knew the answer to?
Big Foot’s hiding place. He is the All-Time Hide and Seek Champion!
What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend? Why?
Spending time with family and friends. I am very lucky to have found a core group of people that I cherish spending time with.
What do you hope never changes?
A teacher’s belief that a student can maximize their potential.
Do teachers have favorite students, in your opinion?
Despite what it looks like, I don’t think teachers have favorite students; they have favorite student behaviors. I think the adults in the room will gravitate towards those who express humility, have a fun personality, are responsible, respectful, and kind to their peers.
Describe yourself in one sentence.
Quick-witted, honest, and continues to challenge himself to be the best person he can be.
How do you think students will remember you or your class?
I think students will remember that they had a good time (despite learning mathematics). I hope they remember me as someone who “keeps it real,” was not afraid to push them to be their best, and genuinely got into the business of education to have an impact on kids.
