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Interview with Mr. Pagnucco |
If you will be talking psychology, world history, or career explorations, you might have Mr. Pagnucco for a teacher. For everyone who doesn’t, here is your opportunity to meet him.
He was born and raised in Northeast Ohio, the home of the Football
Hall of Fame. After graduating from Youngstown State University, he became
a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army. His ten years in the
military, gave him an opportunity to experience many diverse people and
cultures. This also gave him a chance to travel through parts of Europe
and the U.S.
His first teaching job in the military was at a high school. His last teaching job in the Army was basic training for teenagers. He enjoyed turning these great people into “lean, mean, fighting machines”, as he would say. These experiences, led him up to wanting to teach at high schools.
After these great experiences, he came to El Segundo High
School. He plans to stay here “until the dogs come home”, as he would
say. He likes to live by and teach these quotes: “leadership comes from
example”, “practice as you play”, “if something can go wrong, it
will”, and “don’t leave mad, just leave.” As you can see, Mr.
Pagnucco is a very funny teacher.
“My first
famous quote, ‘leadership comes from example’ is a very important one.
In order to lead, you must have great showmanship and responsibility.
Never make your troops do something, which you wouldn’t do yourself.
Everything in life presents itself in a manner to do something good, or do
something great. This is your decision you must make. Many people can use
this type of thinking in everyday life.”
“My second famous quote, ‘if something can go wrong, it
will,’ is also an important quote. This quote basically means, that in
life you always need a backup plan. In this way no matter what happens,
you will be ready. I always plan for the worst, so I will never be
surprised. Life will not run you, but you will run it. I like this quote,
and it really can make you a more dependable person.”
Mr. P.’s inspirations for teaching came from his high school psychology teacher, who soon became his mentor and close friend. Mr. P. has many hobbies and interest’s. He loves to play the guitar and listen to music. Besides music, he is a very serious bicyclist. His goal is to ride one thousand miles every year. He also works with computers in his spare time, even after this, he still finds time for students in need.
You can find Mr. P. in his classroom telling funny stories, and sometimes-funny jokes. Mr. P. can be a very inspirational teacher, because of his background in the military. All students who are ready to join a relaxed, but on-task class, join Mr. Pagnucco’s class.