Who is Mr. Pap?

Hello, I am Derek Pappaceno. My family and I are pleased to be residents in the town of Alton. My wife, Christy, is the Occupational Therapist at ACS. And our sons, Mason & Blake, are in the 10th and 7th grade.

I graduated from Plymouth State College with a Bachelors of Science in Childhood Studies. I taught my first 5 years in Farmington, NH as a 4th grade science and math teacher. I was hired as a 5th grade science teacher when I first came to Alton.

As an avid astronomer and fan of space and technology, I was honored to receive a NASA shuttle launch invite in 2009. The following year, I was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award (Elementary) by the NH Joint Committee of Engineering Societies! The following year, I earned a STEM Certificate through Framingham State University. I learned a great deal about 3D modeling software and the Product Development Process. I have spent the last few years running the MakerSpace, teaching my DIVE elective, 3D Printing and providing enrichment for other grade levels. This will be my 19th year of teaching at Alton Central School.

As the Enrichment/STEM teacher, I enjoyed creating projects and working with students to solve real world problems. My classes are centered around the 4 C's of STEM: Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking.

I have taught and worked with many grade levels. I am excited to return to 5th grade this year!