Recognizing the Gravity of His Work

By Brad Barth

In the course of their studies physics students must be aware of certain constants. For example, the earth has a gravitational constant. Another constant that Jericho High School students have become aware of in their physics classrooms is the presence of Dave Martin, teacher and administrator. At a Recognition Reception ceremony on Thursday evening, November 6 which honored faculty members with long-time service, Martin was praised for his 35 years of dedication to the district, a tenure which exceeded all other honorees this year.

The bearded, spectacled veteran faculty member was touched at the appreciation he received. "It's nice that the district recognizes my efforts," said Martin, who saw the appeal of staying in Jericho. "It's a great bunch of kids and people to work with," he stated.

Martin entered the school district immediately following his 1962 graduation from Adelphi College. He has performed the rather unique feat of still teaching within the very same school system where he first started his career. The attraction to physics, said Martin, who teaches both Regents and AP classes, was that "It's a discipline where I work with my head and hands."

Martin was also qualified to teach a subject very new to schools across America in the '60s - computers. In 1969, Jericho had access to its first computer, a large, single unit located in BOCES that had to be time shared. "We were granted use a couple of hours a day," said Martin, explaining the computer would have to be accessed through phone lines. Martin became the head administrator of technology in the school, and oversaw a tremendous boom in computer use over the decades.

Because of the rapid expansion of computer systems and other technology in Jericho schools, Martin eventually took the role of computer coordinator, relieving himself of the demanding duties of being entirely in charge of technology. But Martin is still heavily involved in the most recent growth, which involves a mini-computer lab in every elementary school class and a computer in every secondary school room. "Kids are really getting a good chance to use computers," said Martin.

Sometimes, Martin's two responsibilities merge, and he can use computer technology to demonstrate principles of physics. He demonstrated a software program that allows students to run a model electric circuit.

Martin was congratulated by Superintendent of Schools Henry Grishman and BOE President Flora Greenberg at the reception for his 35 years of science and technological expertise.