By Reed Hennessy
Editor-in-Chief
Walking through downstairs F-hall there are many classrooms, all similar filled with students listening to teachers talk about derivatives, differentiation and linear functions. But in this otherwise monotonous atmosphere there lies a diamond in the rough, a shining star in the black night sky, the one and only Michael Palkovics.
“It is a great feeling to have a positive impact on a young person’s life,” Neshaminy math teacher Palkovics said.
Originally an industrial engineer for 11 years, Michael Palkovics has been teaching at Neshaminy High School for nine years. Earning his bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in industrial engineering from and master’s degree in mathematics education from Widener University, Palkovics is certainly qualified for his position.
Not only is Palkovics qualified for his position, but he excels at it. “He’s probably one of the best teachers I have ever had, he is my role model,” senior and student of Palkovics Cole Housel said. Palkovics has also earned a reputation as one of the most astute and quick-witted teachers at Neshaminy. “He’s just a quote machine,” Housel said.
Outside of school Palkovics enjoys listening to sports radio, golfing and spending time with family and friends. Although originally from Bensalem, attending Council Rock High School before there was a Council Rock North and South, Palkovics moved to the Chicago suburban area at a young age.
Although to some, and they are few, Palkovics may not be the most amicable teacher at Neshaminy, he is well-liked nonetheless. “I learn a lot in his class, but he has the driest sense of humor and personality I have ever seen, it’s hard to know when he’s serious,” senior Emily Hamilton said.
Regardless of his personality Palkovics shows his love for his students through his teaching and dedication to his craft. Teaching Algebra 2, AP Calculus, Honors Calculus and college prep Calculus Palkovics’s schedule is a full one. Teaching is his life’s goal, he loves his students, co-workers and school so much that teaching takes up most of his time, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.
