William Kiriazis has been named the William Floyd Alumni Association Outstanding Educator for the Class of 2025. Kiriazis, known as Mr. K to his students, began his career at William Floyd High School in 1972, teaching Regents Earth Science and General Science. He developed several courses based on his interests, including Marine Biology, Wilderness Survival, Ornithology, and Entomology. The Marine Biology and Survival courses became popular enough that he was asked to write curricula for full-semester classes in these subjects.
With support from district administration and department leadership, Kiriazis conducted some Marine Biology classes at local bays and oceans, while Survival classes included weekend hiking and rock-climbing trips to locations such as the Catskills.
As technology advanced, Kiriazis wrote a curriculum for a Computer Science course and later taught Regents Chemistry and AP Chemistry. Alongside colleagues Mark Chingos and Al Leonette, he helped form the Environmental Club and Ski Club at the school.
In addition to his work at William Floyd High School, Kiriazis taught Art History in the evenings at Suffolk County Community College from 1987 until his retirement from SCCC in 2018.
Kiriazis also maintains an active career as an artist. His sculptures and paintings have been displayed in various exhibits on both coasts of the United States and are held in private collections. He has collaborated with artist Mary Antczak on sculpture projects. More information about his artwork is available on his website: billkiriazis.com.
Reflecting on his teaching career, Kiriazis said: “My experience in teaching and interacting with students has given me memories I will cherish forever. I think back to the numerous young people who passed through my classes asking pertinent questions and challenging me to have a greater understanding of the world in which we live. Working with students truly inspired me, and I hope they were in turn, also inspired.”
He continues to be active in art while enjoying sailing, cycling, and traveling.