The professional educational career of Robert James Safransky, Ph.D., began in 1960 as a Pinellas County (FL) classroom teacher of American History and Latin at Boca Ciega High School. He transferred to Seminole High School to be on its founding faculty and to teach the required Americanism vs. Communism course from 1962-1967. During his high school teaching days he was Social Studies Department Chair, Student Council Sponsor, and President of the Pinellas County Social Studies Council. He was the director of Clearwater Comprehensive Junior High School from 1968 to 1981. He then became principal of Mirror Lake Tomlinson Adult Vocational School from 1981-1986. He assumed the position of director of administration for five years. He served one year as an assistant principal at a middle school and then as an administrator for supporting services until his retirement after 37 years of service.
A contributor of a number of articles to professional journals throughout his tenure, Dr. Safransky also served as Chairman of the Pastoral Council of St. Matthew Catholic Church for two years. In addition, he was the editor of the Florida Retired Educators Association newsletter and then District VI Director. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11226 as Recorder and Newsletter Editor until 2018.
To prepare for his career, Dr. Safransky earned a Bachelor of Arts at St. Francis Major Seminary in 1957, followed by a Master of Arts at Stetson University in 1965. Passionate about his education, he obtained a Doctor of Philosophy from Florida State University in 1972, cementing his foundation as an inspiring educator.
In addition, Dr. Safransky has maintained membership with numerous organizations to remain abreast of recent developments within his fields of interest. He is past president of the Pinellas County Social Studies Teachers Association, past president of the Clearwater-St. Petersburg Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa, formed board member of R’Club, and former sergeant-at-arms of the St. Petersburg Rotary Club. He is a member of COQEBS (Concerned Organizations for Quality Education for Black Students). As a member of the Education Law Association (ELA), he started and edited a column on the internet for three years. He regularly attends ELA conventions and often is a presenter.
In recognition of his exceptional accomplishments, Dr. Safransky has been inducted into the 65th through 70th editions of Who’s Who in American, published between 2010 and 2016.
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