Many students said Chemistry teacher Mike Funicelli deserved the title of Teacher of the Week because of his lively personality and his sarcastic sense of humor. We can all count on Mr. Funicelli if we need help or just a quick laugh.

In addition to teaching chemistry, Mr. Funicelli is also the head coach of the varsity golf team, and he advises the Scholastic Quiz Team and the Golden Revolution club.

Thank you Mr. Funicelli for all you do, and congrats!

Eagle Eye: Why did you become a teacher?

Mr. Funicelli: I became a teacher because I love being around people. I love being able to joke, laugh, tell stories, listen, talk sports, play games, and educate others…all in one day. Finally, I love that my students stay the same age and keep me young, even though I’m getting old.

EE: Why did you choose the subject you teach?

MF: Believe it or not, I was terrible at chemistry in high school. But, I thought it was super interesting that the same 90 or so elements make up everything in our world, so I wanted to learn more. I think that helps me to better understand where my students struggle.

EE: What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone?

MF: It reminds me of my high school. It is a small school with great teachers, talented students, dedicated administrators, and a passionate community.

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

MF: Spending time with my family and pets, playing/coaching golf, going to the beach, playing golf at the beach, playing board games, watching sports, binging TV shows, and going to NFL games.

EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?

MF: You only have to be one day smarter than your students.

EE: What’s the hardest part of teaching and why?

MF: The pandemic has had a terrible effect on public education. Before that, things were pretty peachy.

EE: What are some jobs held before you got into teaching?

MF: I have had some pretty obscure jobs throughout the years. They include, bingo caller, mink farmer, window fabricator, Jiffy Lube grease monkey, plumbing apprentice, Cambria County Drug and Alcohol Task Force, and tutor.

EE: What is something that students might be surprised to find out about you?

MF: I have an above-average shoe game and am a huge fan of Kanye’s work.

EE: What’s your favorite movie?

MF: The Shawshank Redemption

EE: What is your spirit animal? Why?

MF: I just took a quiz and apparently my spirit animal is a wolf because of my strong instincts, appetite for freedom, and sharp intelligence.