David Mastro
Throughout my schooling, every year brings about a new set of teachers, a new style, and a new method of learning. However, this was not the case for mathematics at my elementary and middle school. For seven years, from second to eighth grade, a man named Mr. Sabih was my math teacher, who started by teaching me the basics such as multiplication and ended up finishing with trigonometry and statistics. Not only did he simply teach my math class, he also ran the school team for an annual math competition, called MathCounts, which I was involved in from fifth grade until eighth grade. Mr. Sabih became much more than just a teacher, he became a figure that I always looked up to and still talk to to this day. Through hours of learning with him, either in class or competition practice, he has greatly advanced my mathematical skills, which I take pride in and believe are a part of my character. With intense lectures and practice, I discovered the educational possibilities that can take place as a result of hard work and hours of practice, and I strived to be at the top of my class. It motivated me to work hard in school and be the best person I can possibly be. One small game that we played every day in my MathCounts elective involved a competition between two people to race to answer a question. Although this sounds insignificant, it had a massive effect on the person I am today. I joined the elective in fifth grade, when I was just a young child, and was exposed to the speed that the older eighth graders were able to compete at. I strived to be able to compete at their level, and it motivated me to practice my skills to the finest, so one day I would be able to be on par with the older students. Mr. Sabih taught me the possibilities that can be achieved through hard work and desire.
Aeshan K.
Mr. Sabih Thank you so much for believing in me about the fact that I could finish geometry. I will work very hard in your Algebra 2 class. Thank you for the opportunity.
Tarun
Mr. Sabih Thank you so much for teaching me this year. I really had fun in your class, especially with all the stories you tell us. Though I took and Algebra class over last summer, I learned a lot in your class.
Spencer Z.
Mr. Sabih Thank you for teaching our math class. I really like how you intuitively know the math you teach and also how you get to know each student. Thank you for teaching us Algebra, geometry and Precalculus.
William D.
Mr. Sabih Thank you for being an absolutely outstanding math teacher! We went through the ENTIRE geometry book and you helped me with tougher concepts along the way.
Mastro Family.
Mr. Sabih Thank you so much for everything you have done for David the past 7 years. You have been such a positive influence on his life and an amazing mentor. David’s love of math is in a big part because of you and we are forever grateful.
Monali G.
Mr. Sabih Thank you so much for teaching me these past three years. I will definitely miss you and your UNIQUE ways of teaching. You’ve made math class a lot of fun and I will never forget “it’s an aaaangle!’ Thank you for everything.
Shefali
Dear Mr. Sabih I wanted to share Anusha’s answer to the high school application question “who is your favorite teacher and why?’ You have made a big impact on her and we are grateful for that.
{ My favorite teacher is my math teacher who has made a strong impression on me because he is motivating, friendly, funny, and good at math. He has taught me for five straight years. In the beginning, I was hesitant to open up because I used to be very shy and didn’t want to talk much to any of the teachers. In his class though, I felt confident enough to speak up and answer some questions. His friendly and funny personality made me feel welcome and relaxed. I admire how students ranging from ages nine to fourteen like him and how they talk about his class with smiles on their faces. When he explains new concepts he makes it clear and simple to understand. He makes not only me but most other kids enjoy math and want to learn more. Also he is always willing to make time after school to help any students who are struggling in certain areas. I truly admire his ability to get people to open up easily and really enjoy what they are doing. }
Sebastian L.
Mr. Sabih I don’t know how you did it but you made math fun. It was probably your awesome stories or your excellent singing voice. Nevertheless, I will miss you, I will always remember the one math teacher I had in 8th grade who was from Morocco.
Tommy Q.
Mr. Sabih It has been the GREATEST honor and privilege having you as my math teacher for all these years. Thank you for letting me join your class in 6th grade. I think that is when my skill level in math jumped. You have shared some of my favorite moments of my life and it will be hard for me to leave. I will visit a lot.
Anusha
Mr. Sabih My favorite teacher is my math teacher who has made a strong impression on me because he is motivating, friendly, funny, and good at math. He has taught me for five straight years. In the beginning, I was hesitant to open up because I used to be very shy and didn’t talk much to any of the teachers. In his class though, I felt confident enough to speak up and answer questions. His friendly and funny personality made me feel welcome and relaxed. I admire how students ranging from ages nine to fourteen like him and how they talk about his class with smiles on their faces. When he explains new concepts he makes it clear and simple to understand. He makes not only me but most other kids enjoy math and want to learn more. Also he is always willing to make time after school to help any students who are struggling in certain areas. I truly admire his ability to get people to open up easily and really enjoy what they are doing.