Michael Kankolenski

Michael J. Kankolenski earned his Master of Science in Education in Secondary Education from Niagara University. He is a dedicated educator with over two decades of experience. He began teaching in 2001 at North Tonawanda High School, where he taught Environmental Issues, Regents Earth Science, and Regents Living Environment. In 2003, he joined Lewiston Porter High School, teaching Regents Living Environment, Regents Earth Science, and AP Environmental Science. Since 2013, he has been inspiring middle school students as a 7th and 8th grade Integrated Science teacher at Lewiston Porter Middle School. In addition to teaching, Michael served as the high school varsity bowling coach, earning the Coach of the Year award. A leader among his peers, he holds the position of middle school union representative and supports students through the school’s after-school assistance program. Since 2019, he has been the intermediate subject area representative for the Northwest section of the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS). Outside the classroom, Michael enjoys boating, fishing, and exploring the outdoors with his two sons. A 4th Dan black belt in Taekwondo certified by Kukkiwon in South Korea, he exemplifies discipline and lifelong learning. As a new Master Teacher, Michael is eager to grow as an educator, inspire a love of science in his students, and continue sharing his expertise at local and state-level conferences. Grateful for his family’s unwavering support, he remains committed to making a lasting impact in science education.