Dennis Petercsak, a science teacher at Hauppauge High School, has been recognized as a 2024 STEM Star Teacher by the Long Island STEM Education Leadership Association. Petercsak has been teaching at the school for 15 years and has taught a variety of courses including biology, IB computer science, regents physics, AP physics 1, and AP physics C: electricity and magnetism.
One of his notable achievements is developing a project-based physics course that focuses on big ideas rather than mathematical equations. This approach makes it accessible to a wider range of students and sets them up for success in future STEM courses.
In addition to his teaching duties, Petercsak serves as an adviser to the Science Olympiad Team at Hauppauge High School. Under his guidance, the team has made it to the state competition for the past five years. He also plays a key role in hosting the Eastern Long Island Regional Science Olympiad Competition at the school.
Director of Science and Research Dr. Robert Wankmuller praised Petercsak for being “a beacon of light for his students” in a news release announcing the award. Petercsak’s dedication to STEM education and his innovative teaching methods have earned him recognition as a STEM Star Teacher.
