The Eye of The Hurricane recently had the opportunity to interview Mr. Mantinaos.  Mr. Mantinaos is a math teacher at New Castle Senior High School. He is a New Castle graduate and has been teaching for the last 29 years.

Where did you further your education after high school?

– I furthered my education at Westminster College.

Why did you become a math teacher?

– I became a math teacher because as a mathematician you get to see the invisible patterns that nobody else can see. Math makes these patterns that happen in nature solvable.

What made you become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I was always teaching and coaching in high school. All of my brothers are high-level doctors. In ancient Greece, the highest job level was to become a teacher.

What are your favorite things to do outside of school?

My favorite things to do outside of school are to bake bread and garden.

Were there any teachers that inspired you in school?

My homeroom teacher Mr. Masterangelo inspired me. When I told other teachers that I wanted to pursue a teaching career, they all told me no except him. Another inspiration to me was Mr. Spina, my chem teacher.

Which grade do you like teaching better? Why?

What was your experience like as a student teacher?

I like to teach 10th, 11th, and 12th grade in sequence.

What is your favorite thing about teaching?

My favorite thing is seeing students several years after graduating and seeing them being successful and becoming good people. I also love creating a relationship and bond with my students.

How long have you been a teacher?

This school year is my 29th year of teaching.

Have you worked at any other high school, other than New Castle?

I worked in Maryland for eight years, Laurel for one year, Westminster High School, and Thomas Stone high school. The rest of my teaching career I taught here at New Castle.