About Dr. Palermo

 I started my teaching career as an adjunct instructor at Stony Brook University teaching animal physiology.  In 2007 I began teaching science at WFHS (Living Environment for the first 4 years then I shifted to Regents/Honors Chemistry which I currently teach.  In addition to chemistry, I also teach an advanced research class and function as a lead teacher for new teachers in my district. I earned a B.S. in Biology & Chemistry and a M.A.T. in Science Education from Stony Brook University and a Ph.D. in Chemical Education from Stony Brook University. In addition, I am a peer reviewer for various science education journals such as The Journal of Chemical Education, Journal of Research in Science Teaching and The Journal of School Science and Mathematics.  In addition to teaching, I  am currently a science education researcher at Stony Brook University researching science and math teacher turnover, student equity in advanced sciences and ed policy.  Most recently, In 2020, I was appointed to New York State's Reimagine Education Advisory Council. In 2022, I was the recipient of the New York State Excellence in Teaching Award and the STANYS excellence in science teaching award and the 2024 STANYS Suffolk County Science Teacher of the Year.  I am currently the President for The American Association of Chemistry Teachers (AACT). When I am not teaching I spend my time surfing, playing drums in my band, volunteering as a firefighter and rescue diver and hanging with my son Elliott at the beach. Teachers if you have any questions about the website or would like any resources please send me an email here
In January 2015, I was selected  as a Master Teacher by NYS.  I will be collaborating with teachers from all areas of NYS to improve classroom learning and motivate students toward a career in STEM.
In December 2016, I received the Stony Brook University 40 under 40 award for my contributions to the field of education. This was a great honor and I am proud to be a SBU graduate.  www.stonybrook.edu/40underforty/
In 2020, I was selected to serve on the New York State Reimagine Education Advisory Council. My role was to advocate for teachers and students and assist in the development of the NYS School Reopening Guidelines.  forward.ny.gov/reimagine-education-advisory-council
In 2022, I was the recipient of the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award  by New York State. I look forward to working with regional development leaders, university leaders in teacher education, policymakers, and school leaders to advise them on trends in education.
In 2022, I was the recipient of the STANYS Excellence in Science Teaching Award. stanys.org/ExcellenceInTeaching
In July of 2024 I was elected to the position of president for the AACT governing board. teachchemistry.org/news/2023-governing-board-election-results