Mr. Anthony Affisio

Mr. Affissio joins Notre Dame High School as an English teacher, bringing extensive experience working with students in both secondary and higher education. He previously worked at Notre Dame as the Assistant Director of the International Dormitory, where he supported students from diverse backgrounds and led English-language lessons and workshops. Most recently, Anthony served at Elmira College in a variety of student-focused roles, including teaching, tutoring, and training courses through the College’s Academic Affairs department and serving as Head Coach of the College’s esports program.

Holding a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in Organizational Communications and a Master of Science in General Management, Anthony has always had a passion for English, writing, and literature. He is excited to return to the classroom and help students develop their skills as readers, writers, and critical thinkers. He considers it a privilege to work with students and looks forward to helping them grow both academically and personally during their time at Notre Dame.

For Anthony, teaching English is about more than simply developing reading and writing skills. Literature gives students an opportunity to explore different perspectives, question assumptions, understand experiences different from their own, and develop their own voices. His passion for the subject, combined with his professional experiences, has shown him firsthand the power of language and effective communication. He hopes to leave that same lasting impression on his students and help them recognize the impact their own words can have.

What motivates him most is seeing students gain confidence in something they once found difficult. Whether that means improving their writing, understanding a challenging text, or discovering a genuine appreciation for literature and the lessons it offers, those moments are incredibly rewarding. He feels fortunate to have the opportunity to help shape students’ educational paths and hopes to create a classroom where they feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to think for themselves.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Affissio resides in Horseheads with his amazingly supportive wife, Jessika; their six children, Juliette, Aviana, Penelope, Marceline, Gareth, and Valkyrie; and their three dogs, three cats, and turtle. His three favorite authors are Edgar Allan Poe, William Shakespeare, and J.R.R. Tolkien.