Anyone walking through the science wing on the first floor will usually hear the booming voice of Michael Davidson, Hawthorne’s physics teacher. When he came to this school in the middle of the 2010-2011 school year, no one really knew what to expect, but students clicked with him immediately. Everyone knows how much he loves physics and Chuck Norris, but not a lot of people really know about him.
In college Davidson didn’t major in physics, but that class and astronomy really interested him the most. The areas of physics that interest him the most are fluids and electricity. He says that we see these things every day, and it’s “nice to understand the science that underlies the stuff we take for granted.” Anyone who has been in his classes can see how excited he gets when it’s time to learn these aspects of physics.
Outside of the classroom, Davidson is a huge Yankee and Giants fan. When he isn’t watching Mythbusters or Nova, he is most likely watching a college basketball game. He is also a huge fan of the Jersey shore (the place not the show!) and New York City. Any chance he gets, he’s either taking a bus to Manhattan for the day or driving to Cape May to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
One interesting fact about Mr. Davidson is that in 2005 he had not one but both of his knees replaced with metal replacements. He claims, “It was the best decision I’ve ever made.” He also spent three years in the Marine Corps and says he relives the memories and the people more than any other part of his life. Davidson has five brothers and every single one of them (including himself) is over 6 feet 4 inches tall. Growing up, the family had Great Danes. That house must have been chaotic all the time.
As for Davidson’s obsession with Chuck Norris, he explained, “Chuck Norris is so cool. I love people who like to make fun of themselves sometimes, who don’t take themselves too seriously. We need more of that attitude.”