Marco Roccato began his journey at TASIS in 2020 as a High School intern and has since evolved into a multifaceted educator and community leader. Currently teaching US History and EAL US History to grade 11 students, Roccato's educational philosophy centers on nurturing curiosity among his students. He emphasizes the importance of intellectual curiosity as fundamental to becoming well-rounded individuals, particularly when introducing US history to students who often encounter it as a new subject. Beyond the classroom, Roccato serves as the lead advisor for grade 11, a dorm parent in Hadsall dorm, co-chair of the Faculty Advisory Committee, and new faculty coordinator, allowing him to support both students and colleagues in various aspects of school life. His educational background includes schooling in Italy, a postgraduate year at a Quaker boarding school in Maryland, a bachelor's degree in Global and International Studies from the College of Wooster, and a Postgraduate Certificate of Education from the University of Nottingham. Roccato appreciates the international environment at TASIS, viewing it as a natural progression in his own global journey rather than a completely new experience. He finds the school's location overlooking Lake Lugano uniquely inspiring and values the sense of community that supported him during his initial transition, especially amid the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Roccato's teaching approach involves building foundational knowledge before engaging students in higher-level historical thinking, encouraging them to draw connections between US history and their own cultural backgrounds.
Roccato's involvement in non-academic activities, particularly as a dorm parent, has profoundly shaped his relationships with students and his appreciation for the TASIS community. He views the boarding program as a cornerstone of the school's uniqueness, drawing from his own experiences as a former boarding student to create supportive and engaging dorm environments. Leading weekend activities—from cultural outings in Milan to hikes in Montagnola—allows him to connect with students beyond academic settings, including those he doesn't teach in the classroom. This holistic engagement aligns with his goal of fostering a campus where "there are no strangers." Reflecting on challenges, Roccato recalls his rapid transition from intern to classroom teacher in 2021, which required adapting quickly to curriculum demands. He credits this opportunity with solidifying his career path and deepening his commitment to TASIS. The lifting of Covid-19 restrictions marked a turning point, enabling him to fully embrace TASIS's offerings, such as Academic Travel and communal dining, which reinforced his sense of belonging. Roccato believes TASIS prepares students for an interconnected future by mirroring global diversity within its community, celebrating multiculturalism during events like International Week while emphasizing shared values of kindness and empathy. For aspiring educators, he advises exploring teaching opportunities early, whether through volunteering or assistantships, to discover one's passion and develop leadership skills. As he anticipates becoming a father, Roccato aims to balance his roles as an educator and lifelong learner, continuing to contribute to a community that values growth, curiosity, and global citizenship.
