NHP Praying for Former Local Teacher Daniel Bobis

The disappearance abroad of loved teacher and surf coach in the Long Beach community Daniel Bobis has shocked and saddened hundreds of people. 

While it is well known that Bobis has been an intricate member of the Long Beach community, as well as an accomplished musician, his impact on hundreds in New Hyde Park from his time as a math teacher for two years at was also special.

“Daniel Bobis is a bright young man who related well to the staff, administration, but most importantly the students of our school,” said . “I was one of the vice principals at the time he taught at our school so we never had the chance to be too close, but everyone could see how well he related to the students and the mutual respect they shared.”

While only a teacher between 2004 and 2006, he forged relationships with students that lasted after moving on to Long Beach. Between his presence on the Long Island Hardcore music scene as a founding member and drummer of the band Cipher and his involvement with the surf community, he was able to touch many peoples lives.

“Over the past seven years I've had the privilege to transition from a student - teacher relationship with Danny Bobis, to a genuine friendship,” said Derek Scancarelli, a former student now attending the Univeristy of Albany. “The things he's bestowed to his community extend much further than the likes of a classroom, beach or the stage.”

Bobis has been bridging a generational gap between teacher and student while maintaining an integrity that has earned him the respect of both his peers and the community at large.

 “I had him in the eighth grade,” said Allen Abraham, a former student now attending Stonybrook Univeristy. “He taught math with rhymes and phrases that helped us to remember how to do the problems. You could tell that he put in extra hours after school and how much he must have cared about the students.”

His multiple hobbies and his unique personality display the portrait of an educator that is different than the traditional high school teacher.

“Above all, Danny is a positive role model,” Scancarelli said. “He expects nothing in return for giving his all to others on a day-to-day basis. Everyone is maintaining positive energy for his family and wife Rachel and awaiting his return home.“

Many people in New Hyde Park expressed that thoughts and prayers are with everyone with whom Bobis has at one point influenced in the classroom, the ocean or on stage from New Hyde Park to Long Beach and beyond.