Tony Longo

Tony Longo

Middle School Teacher

Education

  • Cornell University – B.S. in Natural Resources and the Environment

  • LeMoyne College – M.S.T. in Secondary Education (Science)

Journey to Sandhills

Tony began his professional journey as an environmental scientist before realizing his true passion was in education. After earning his master’s degree in teaching, he spent years teaching middle school science in New York while also teaching college-level biology and ecology for the SUNY system. A move to South Carolina for his wife’s career brought him into public schools in Lexington and Richland counties—until a Sandhills job post on LinkedIn caught his attention.

“What an incredible school and potential opportunity—I applied immediately.”
After visiting campus and meeting the community, he knew he had found something special.

What Drew Me to Sandhills

I had found the unicorn of teaching opportunities.”

Tony was drawn to Sandhills for its experiential learning model and the chance to make a meaningful, holistic difference in students’ lives. The school’s mission and energy resonated deeply with him, and he quickly felt at home.

Why I Love Working with Students with Dyslexia

As someone who shares some of the same learning differences, Tony feels a personal connection to his students.

I want to help them realize they have a ‘gift’—a superpower of sorts. Once they learn to cope with the difficulties, those gifts set them apart.”

He considers it an honor to walk alongside them in their educational journey.

Favorite Lessons to Teach

Anything that involves water, muck, or vegetation—Tony’s favorite lessons are the ones where students get their hands dirty and dive into experiential science.