Spotlight on Mr. Finnerty: Passionate Educator at Greenport High

Kelsey Hernandez'27

Mr. Harrison Finnerty brings enthusiasm and expertise to Greenport High School's history department, where he teaches AP Microeconomics, 8th-grade history, and 12th-grade history. Growing up in Oakdale, New York, just an hour west of Greenport, Mr. Finnerty attended Connetquot High School. He later pursued a degree in history and adolescent education with a focus on social studies at SUNY Cortland and is currently working towards a master's in TESOL.

Reflecting on his high school years, Mr. Finnerty recalls social studies as his favorite subject. "I had teachers who made the class engaging, and we always did fun activities. My goal is to be an engaging Social Studies teacher who brings history to life and makes it fun for students to learn."

Teaching runs in Mr. Finnerty's family. With both parents in the profession—his mom recently retired from Sayville High School and his dad currently teaching at Half Hollow Hills—he felt drawn to education early on. "Growing up, I had a feeling I would be a teacher. As a family on the same schedule, we were able to make so many memories during summer break. I love learning history and am passionate about sharing it. I also loved being in school as a kid. I remember realizing in high school that I would love to make a career out of working in a school. Once I got to college, I knew Social Studies Teaching would be the perfect job for me."

Mr. Finnerty's dedication and passion for teaching have been warmly welcomed at Greenport High School, and both students and staff are excited to have him as part of the team.