As we count down the days to the start of the 2024 Summer Discovery program, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the talented instructors who will be guiding our participants all summer. From cutting-edge technology to creative arts and beyond, each instructor brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to our program. Read on to get into the minds of our Summer Discovery instructors and discover what makes them the driving force behind our transformative educational experience.
We are also lucky to have two returning instructors to the Central PA cohorts this year — Len and Bob!
Bob Nikolishen
Health and Physical Education Teacher, Central Cambria High School
What are you most excited about doing this summer with Readiness Institute Summer Discovery?
There is a magical bond that takes place with this program, with both student and administration. Having the opportunity to view this professional cohesion is truly a privilege.
What are you currently reading, watching, and/or listening to?
Boardwalk Empire
Favorite place to vacation?
Outer Banks
Favorite quote?
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill
Favorite subject when you were in high school?
Phys. Ed. and recess
What is the biggest lesson you learned in high school or post-graduation?
Be kind. Never judge a book by its cover. Learn the words on the pages before coming up with an evaluation of someone.
Len Haduck
6th Grade American History Teacher, Altoona Area Jr. High School
What are you most excited about doing this summer with Readiness Institute Summer Discovery?
I am excited to be a part of the process where students learn essential skills for future success, whatever that may look like.
What are you currently reading, watching, and/or listening to?
I have been watching a lot of the College World Series and the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Favorite place to vacation?
Wherever my wife and I can get together with our children. If we could pick, however, it would probably be Sandbridge.
Favorite quote?
“Let us endeavor so to live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry.” — Mark Twain
Favorite subject when you were in high school?
Geometry
What is the biggest lesson you learned in high school or post-graduation?
The lesson I wish I knew was: Only I can determine my worth and what my ceiling is. A close second would be: You can’t make everyone happy, but if you try, you certainly won’t be.
Nicole Hillegas
Fourth Grade Teacher, Everett Area School District
What are you most excited about doing this summer with Readiness Institute Summer Discovery?
I am looking forward to a new experience with students outside of an elementary school setting. I primarily work with younger children, so this should be interesting for me.
What are you currently reading, watching, and/or listening to?
Currently watching Dateline reruns and Hallmark movies. Currently listening to Noah Kahan and, of course, The Tortured Poets Department, I am a Swiftie.
Favorite place to vacation?
Disney World and Myrtle Beach
Favorite quote?
The rewards of the journey far outweigh the risk of leaving the harbor.
Favorite subject when you were in high school?
I loved sociology and English.
What is the biggest lesson you learned in high school or post-graduation?
It is completely okay to not have everything figured out right away. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and head in the right direction.
Matt Karabinos, aka “Mr. K”
6th Grade ELA/Science Teacher, Williamsburg Community Elementary School
What are you most excited about doing this summer with Readiness Institute Summer Discovery?
Working with older students and mentoring them through decisions that will impact their future is something I’m really looking forward to. I’m excited to share my own learning experiences with them and get to know them better. My journey to this point has been complex, but it’s a great story that shows how the path to success isn’t always straightforward or easy.
What are you currently reading, watching, and/or listening to?
I am currently reading Powerful Teaching by Dr. Pooja Agarwhal and Patrice Bain. My guilty pleasure for tv shows is Bar Rescue or any Gordon Ramsay show. I’m really into the show Dark Matter right now on Apple TV+. I listen to a mix of heavy metal, rock, pop, and pretty much anything except for country music.
Favorite place to vacation?
I love to go to the beach or camping for shorter weekend trips.
Favorite quote?
“Be curious, not judgemental” — Ted Lasso
“There is no learning without mistakes.” — Bob Ross
Favorite subject when you were in high school?
I was absolutely a math nerd.
What is the biggest lesson you learned in high school or post-graduation?
High school did not prepare me for what was in store for me. Many of the most important life lessons happen after high school. You have to figure out who you are and ride the wave of life.