1993 Alum Making a Difference as Special Education Teacher

“I never thought I’d be a teacher,” said Michael. “Zero chance.”

Michael graduated from Gaucher College in Maryland with a Bachelor of Arts in communications and began working at Easterseals, in West Haven, Conn. What started out as a first job became a passion and a career. 

“I was an adult education teacher at Easterseals,” said Michael. “It provides services to people with disabilities, veterans, and families in the West Haven area. I met my wife, Nicole, in college, and she was a teacher. So, I started thinking more about teaching as a career. First, I earned a teaching certificate and then a master’s in special education from Southern Connecticut State University.”

Looking back, Michael said Hamden Hall gave him a strong headstart for a career in education.

“You do lots of writing as a teacher, especially in Special Education,” reflected Michael. “Lots of IEPs, testing, and reports. Teaching also requires lots of patience.”

Michael has been teaching special education for over 20 years with 10-plus years at Edith E. Mackrille Elementary School in West Haven. 

“I teach special education for third and fourth graders at the Mackrille School,” said Michael. “I work with classes as large as six and offer one-on-one tutoring.” 

Michael loves his work, and he’s making a difference.

  

“Special education is more than teaching the basics,” said Michael. “It’s about building relationships with students who have a wide range of abilities. It can be challenging at times, but 

I like going to work every day, and I have pride in my work. I love seeing progress at the end of the year.”

Michael isn’t the only Hornet in his family. Michael and Nicole have two daughters: Rachel who graduated in 2024 and Rebecca who will graduate in 2027. Michael also has two brothers who are also Hamden Hall Lifers: Steven, Class of 1996, and Brian, Class of 2003.