Hello, Epiphany School of Charlotte! My name is Mr. Polischak and I’m excited to share that I will be joining Epiphany’s staff as the Math Teacher for the 2025-26 school year. I am coming with four years of teaching experience in public middle schools in the greater Charlotte area, and I am ecstatic about returning to the classroom.
My educational background:
I have spent four years teaching Middle Grades Mathematics and English Language Arts in public schools in Cabarrus and Mecklenburg County, where I was able to serve a diverse population – both culturally and academically. I have a passion for providing students the tools that they need to be successful, in and out of the classroom.
My certifications:
Bachelor of Arts – Middle Grades Education – Concentrations in Mathematics and English Language Arts
NC Teaching license:
Grades 6-9 Mathematics
Grades 6-9 English Language Arts
My social/emotional trainings:
I have participated in a wide range of professional development with social emotional learning at the forefront. I also facilitated a social emotional learning class for two years at the middle school level, at the start of every day, using the International Baccalaureate curriculum.
My favorite teacher from my past:
My favorite teacher that I had was Mrs. Patterson, who I had for second AND fourth grade. She was able to create such a welcoming classroom that truly felt like a family. I hope to be able to create the same feeling for my students, as I felt in Mrs. Patterson’s class!
What do I love about Epiphany?
I love that Epiphany meets the students where they are, both academically and emotionally, and provides them the tools necessary to be successful beyond the classroom. The staff at Epiphany genuinely cares about each and every student, and the structure allows for relationships to be formed with every student.
How does teaching and working with children inspire me?
Seeing the growth that students have in my classroom has been the most rewarding professional accomplishment in my career. Getting students excited to learn and grow in an environment that we create together, inspires me to be the best teacher that I can.
My favorite movie:
Anything from the Marvel Cinematic Universe!
My favorite board game:
Munchkin
My favorite book:
It’s Kind of a Funny Story – Ned Vizzini
My favorite character, cartoon, or superhero:
Spider-Man
My Interests and hobbies:
Legos, Coaching wrestling, Cooking, Reading comic books, Video games
My origins, travels and/or adventures:
Born in Hartford CT, I have lived up and down the east coast, my entire life, with stops in Philadelphia PA, Greenville SC, and Greensboro NC. I have spent the last 8 years in Charlotte, where I attended UNC Charlotte and began my teaching career.
My favorite thing to do, place to go, or eatery in Charlotte:
An ideal day for me would be going to Optimist Hall to grab a bite before I go cheer on our Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center!
