Kevin Mandoske, affectionately known as Mr. M. by his students, has been a dedicated educator at Hillside Academy since 2011. He brings a wealth of experience and a passion for early childhood education to his role, teaching all subjects to kindergarten and first-grade students. Kevin holds an Associate in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Business Management from the State University of New York and Harriman College, respectively, along with a Teaching Certification from the University of Washington. He also attended Ladycliff College and completed professional development courses to continually enhance his teaching skills.

Before joining Hillside Academy, Kevin worked as a Para Educator in the Lake Washington School District. With over 15 years of experience in education, he has been recognized for his excellence in teaching, earning the prestigious Teacher of the Year in Elementary Education award from the District One Washington VFW.

Kevin chose to work in education for the sheer joy of teaching young children. He finds immense satisfaction in nurturing the curiosity and growth of his students, ensuring that their first academic experiences are both rewarding and memorable. He deeply appreciates Hillside Academy’s close-knit, supportive community, stating, “I could not have asked to be in a better place to teach children. Our small school is a gift to the community where we strive to meet the needs of each child in a very individualized and caring way.” His teaching philosophy centers on providing individualized attention and care, helping each child achieve their fullest potential.

Outside of the classroom, Kevin is an avid cook, having attended The Culinary Institute of America for two semesters to hone his culinary skills. He has a unique background as a Civil War reenactor with the 124th New York Regiment of Volunteers, where he educated the public about living history. A proud veteran, Kevin served in the United States Navy for four years, including a tour in Vietnam with the Helicopter Riverboat Support Squadron HAL-3 and at Pax River MD Squadron VP-30.

Kevin is also a passionate traveler, frequently visiting Hawaii to spend time with his children and grandchildren. A fun fact that surprises many is that he saw The Beatles live at Shea Stadium in New York. He lives by the motto “Be true to yourself,” which guides his personal and professional life.

Married to his high school sweetheart for over 50 years, Kevin treasures his family, which includes two children and four grandchildren. His deep commitment to his students and his community makes him a beloved member of the Hillside Academy family.