Think back to your school days—how many teachers did you find challenging to connect with? With Mr. Randazzo, Fort Hamilton’s newest drama teacher, you’ll never have that experience. He believes that “communication, patience, and connection are important to any grade,” and he brings these values to his classes to ensure his students have the most rewarding and fulfilling learning experiences possible.
One of the first times Mr. Randazzo learned to express himself was when he was in seventh grade. He had a teacher who profoundly inspired him and left a lasting impression. Every year, the teacher would recite “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” to the graduating class. This simple yet powerful ritual resonated with him deeply, sparking his passion for teaching and informing his practices today.
Although Mr. Randazzo earned his bachelor’s degree in communication arts, he did not begin his adult life as a drama teacher. After interning at Miramax, he decided he did not want to work in an office setting. After seeing an advertisement for the Teaching Fellows Program, an alternative teacher preparation program that leads to New York State teacher certification, he became a third grade teacher.
Mr. Randazzo dedicated much of his career to nurturing young minds at P.S. 159 and P.S. 1. For 19 years of teaching third grade, he discovered the incredible power of theater and the effect it has on students. He often allowed his students to act out stories, transforming those stories into vibrant, engaging experiences. This approach not only made learning fun but also allowed students to express themselves in ways they had never imagined.
Mr. Randazzo’s interests do not end at theater and self-expression; he thrives on structured activities like working out, practicing yoga, doing CrossFit, and traveling. His unique blend of interests and hobbies influence his remarkable personality, which he unfailingly carries over to his students and classes. This year marks an exciting new chapter for Mr. Randazzo as he joins our high school theater department.
“Teaching high school theater has been a dream of mine,” he said. “Theater is my passion.”
