Determined to be a better science teacher than the ones he had growing up, Dan Podjenski calls himself the “Swiss Army knife of science.”
He does it all, from teaching nearly every science subject to helping with sports, tutoring, being part of the South bowling league and more.
Podjenski said he has always been drawn to science and even considered teaching math until a “really crazy” calculus professor changed his mind. “I took it as a sign from the universe,” he joked.
“It’s hard to pick my favorite part about teaching here. There’s just so much that I like,” Podjenski said. “South is very unique. There’s a lot of character here. Not only are the staff and students really cool, but the physical space is too.”
Outside of school, Podjenski likes to wind down by watching sports, especially the NFL and college football.
“I’m not really into basketball. I grew up being a basketball guy, but I grew away from it,” he said.
He also shared a memorable story from his own high school years. “In my senior year, the basketball team won a state championship. I got a state medal even though I didn’t participate. I should probably hang it up.”
Podjenski said he is also looking forward to Thanksgiving break.
“I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for this small break,” he said. He plans to visit New York for the first time and do “New York stuff” like going to Broadway and seeing the 9/11 Memorial.
Ten years in, Podjenski remains just as committed to his students as the day he started and hopes to guide many more for years to come.
