“The students and families are focused on success which makes my job easier.”
- Michael Komelasky
Titles: Teacher of Science; Co-moderator of The Green Club
Department: Science
Courses Taught:
Earth Science
Forensic Science
Academic Degrees:
BS, Villanova University
MS, Florida Institute of Technology
Ph.D., George Mason University
To contact: mkomelasky@middleburgacademy.org
Timid and soft-spoken are words unlikely to be used in describing Dr. Komelasky. “Live large and live loud” might better describe his operational and teaching mode! For someone who spent twenty-one years in the United States Naval Submarine Force, he can barely hold his passions below surface, positively bursting with stories and ideas about both science and his students.
Dr. Komelasky is entering his tenth year of teaching at Middleburg Academy, and notes, “I have taught every science course here except for AP Biology.” He holds a broad and fascinating set of science credentials: his undergraduate degree is in chemical engineering; his master’s degree is in Physical & Chemical Oceanography; and his doctorate is in Environmental and Public Policy. Currently, Michael Komelasky teaches the introductory Earth Science class, as well as the perennially popular elective entitled Forensic Science. In the latter, students apply knowledge gained in their previous biology and chemistry coursework to CSI-style fact-finding and research. One highlight among many in this fascinating class is an annual field trip to the US Postal Department Lab, where students witness forensic work in action such as Drug analysis using Hi-Tech mass spectrometers and fingerprinting analysis using an AFIS system. Labs are done to illustrate the principles studied. CSI videos and case studies are also reviewed for proper forensic procedures.
Dr. Komelasky and his wife have parented four children (one deceased), with their youngest daughter following in her father’s footsteps as a Naval officer. Non-scientific pastimes include golfing, swimming and dancing.