Bio: Michael Zabinski was a faculty member at The Albany Academies in Albany, New York since 2009. During his time there he served as the Fine Arts Department Chair overseeing Pre-K through grade twelve curriculum and instruction of theater, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and visual arts programs.
Mr. Z also helped develop young athletes as an assistant coach for the Women’s Varsity Basketball Team, Co- Head Coach of the Junior Varsity Baseball Team, and Head Junior Varsity and Assistant Varsity Football Coach. In addition, Mr. Zabinski founded the Albany Academies Outdoor Club and led student trips to Wyoming, ice climbing in Lake Placid, camping in New Hampshire, and an excursion to summit Mount Washington. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts from Suny Purchase and an MSED in Educational Leadership from the College of Saint Rose. Mr. Zabinski resides in Slingerlands, New York, with his loving wife Marie and three daughters, Ava, Ella, and Olivia.
Q- What are you looking forward to most about Catskill MS?
A- “Getting to know and work with students, families, faculty and staff.”
Q- What advice do you have for students?
A- “Well, my top five would be…
- One of the best things you can do for your mental health and well-being, in my opinion, is to aim for a minimum of 8 hours of sleep every night.
- Exercise everyday even if just for fifteen minutes.
- Do kind deeds, even when adults aren’t looking.
- Try your best and know that you have great potential. The only limitations in reaching your goals are the ones you put on yourself.
- Be safe, be responsible, and be respectful.”
Q- How would you describe your office?
A- “One that is always open to parents or guardians, students, and faculty. Although, I’d like to think that I won’t be in it that much as I hope my presence is felt whenever high traffic areas are frequented by students.”
Q- What are your hobbies?
A- “Reading, fishing, backpacking, playing sports, boxing, making photographs, listening to music, and hmmm, well when you see me next, ask me about my hobbies when I used to live in Wyoming.”
Q- What is your favorite Disney Movie?
A- “Definitely, Moana. I like the plot and love the soundtrack. I like the curiosity, grit, and determination of Moana and Maui’s sense of humor.”
Q- What is your favorite food?
A- “Pizza”
Do you have questions or constructive feedback for Mr. Z? Email him at mzabinski@catskillcsd.org