For 31 years, Elliott Wong has been a cornerstone of Manhasset High School’s Social Studies department. The longest tenured teacher at Manhasset, he has taught 16 courses in total, and is currently teaching AP World History and AP Research. 

But Mr. Wong wasn’t always set on history. Originally, he had planned to become a math teacher—that is, until his mom encouraged him to study law, leading him to major in political science at NYU. Here, he discovered his love for social studies. Inspired by past teacher role models, Mr. Wong decided to dedicate his career to breaking down complicated subjects for students—like his favorite subject, economics. 

Because of its lasting impact and potential reach, Mr. Wong believes teaching is one of the most rewarding professions. “The younger generation is the future,” he said. “There could be a future Nobel Prize winner sitting in your class.”

Before joining Manhasset’s faculty, Mr. Wong was a teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School. After a colleague invited him to visit Manhasset, he was immediately drawn to its beautiful campus and community. “When an opening came up, I applied,” he recalled with a laugh. “I didn’t get the job at first, but when their first choice turned it down, I guess I was the second or third!”

Outside the classroom, Mr. Wong enjoys practicing the saxophone, watching the Knicks while playing video games, and learning new things. His favorite game  is Grand Theft Auto IV: Liberty City, as it reminds him of driving around New York City. 

​​Over his three decades at Manhasset, Mr. Wong has seen the school evolve significantly. “There’s definitely more pressure on students today than there was 25 or 30 years ago,” he said. “Manhasset kids have so many commitments now. Everyone rushes out after school for afterschool activities.” To balance that, Mr. Wong believes that students shouldn’t let academics consume their life, and instead “get out and play more.”

As one of his current students, I can personally attest that Mr. Wong’s genuine care for his students and passion for his job make his classes one of the most fun and engaging I’ve ever taken.