Steven Serling

Steven Serling is currently an Assistant Principal in the New York City Public Schools. Originally from Michigan, Steven’s passion for community building and experiential learning began during his undergraduate years at Michigan State University, where he participated in the Multi-Racial Unity Living Experience (MRULE) and studied abroad in South Africa. Both of these experiences introduced him to the power of dialogue while bringing difference to the center and learning through community; values that have shaped his educational philosophy ever since.

After undergrad, Steven taught English in China. He then moved to New York City, where he spent twelve years teaching Social Studies, before becoming an administrator.

Steven’s research focuses on how students engage across traditional and non-traditional classroom settings, including internships, field trips, community partnerships, and more informal third spaces. He is especially interested in how joy and experiential learning influence student engagement and academic success, as well as how school leaders can create equitable access to these opportunities.

Beyond his school-based leadership, Steven serves on the Board of Trustees of the New York Society for Ethical Culture. He is proud to call Astoria, Queens home and when he is not working or studying, Steven can be found exploring New York City’s diverse food scene or spending time with his dog, Franklin.

Related Professional Experience

• Assistant Principal, New York City Public Schools, 2019-Current
• Social Studies Teacher, New York City Public Schools, 2007-2019

• New York University, New York, NY — Masters of Arts, Educational Leadership
• Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI – Bachelors of Arts, History
• Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI – Bachelors of Arts, Sociology

• Learning Across Traditional and Non-Traditional Classroom Settings
• Experiential Learning and Student Engagement
• Joy

• New York City Public Schools: Passport to Social Studies, Global History (Published 2018)