Jason D’Agostino, a STEAM director and early childhood educator at My Spectrum School, has been named Best Teacher of Long Island 2026 by Best of Long Island, an honor driven by community nominations and public voting across the region.
D’Agostino, known to students as “Science Jason,” said the recognition felt surreal.
“It’s kind of unbelievable,” he said. “I’m so grateful for all the votes and everyone’s faith and trust in me.”
The annual Best of Long Island awards highlight local professionals in education, business and public service, with winners selected through a public voting process organized by Best of Long Island. D’Agostino said he learned of the win after receiving overwhelming support from families and the community.
My Spectrum School Co-director Linda D’Agostino said the award reflects years of dedication to early childhood and gifted education at the Port Washington school.
“We’re honored,” she said. “We’re so proud to have him as our head teacher.”
The school, located at 11 Sintsink Drive East, serves children ages 18 month to 12 years old and focuses on STEAM education — science, technology, engineering, art and math — along with gifted learning approaches. It is licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
Jason D’Agostino holds a master’s degree in early childhood education from Long Island University CW Post and earned a degree in psychology at Adelphi University. He has also studied mind-brain research at Harvard University, which he said helps shape his approach to teaching.
“My favorite part is everything,” he said. “I like coming up with different projects and learning modules. Being part of something that will last beyond me, that’s really the idea.”
He said his goal is to foster curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in young students.
Source: LI Press
