Mark Erlenwein - Principal
Mark Erlenwein is a 27-year educator, alumnus, and storyteller-in-chief since 2013 as the principal of the top ranked and nationally revered, Staten Island Technical High School. Mark Erlenwein is a dynamic education administrator who uses enthusiasm, creativity, innovation, collaboration and technology, as well as the philosophy of service above self, to instill a growth-mindset to make education environments, highly-engaging, fun, rigorous, relevant, rich and future ready. Mr. Erlenwein is also a highly-effective communicator and problem solver with expertise in English rhetoric, STEAM education, data management - analysis systems and educational technologies and innovations.
Staten Island Technical High School is one of New York City’s eight Specialized High Schools for gifted and talented learners. Niche.com, recently recognized Staten Island Technical High School as the 15th ranked best public high school in the nation and third ranked high school in both New York City and New York State. Mr. Erlenwein earned his English rhetoric bachelor’s and master’s degree from CUNY - The College of Staten Island, as well as his Administrator's Certificate at the College of St. Rose.
Mark’s earliest days at Staten Island Tech were as a student of the class of 1992. Mark returned in 1997 to serve as a science and technology teacher and was inspired to strive and serve further, in 2005, as an Assistant Principal of STEAM, Pupil Personnel Services, English, Foreign Language and College Admissions. Mr. Erlenwein also served as an adjunct professor at the City University of New York: College of Staten Island, teaching Advanced Human Assessment in the College of Staten Island’s Physical Therapy program.
In Spring 2022, Mark was named the School Administrators Association / National Association of Secondary School Principals New York State Principal of the Year. In addition Mr. Erlenwein is a Columbia University 2018 Cahn Fellow and a 2024 CUNY Hunter College Gray Fellow, as well as the recipient of the 2018 United Activities Unlimited - Louis DeSario, Educator of the Year Award.
Mark Erlenwein is a passionate advocate for students of all abilities, from the gifted and twice-gifted to neurodiverse learners. As an education technologist and innovator, he believes in the power of every student to thrive, regardless of their grades, background, or circumstances. Mark’s work is rooted in his deep commitment to helping students discover their voice, build self-confidence, and develop the social and communication skills that will carry them through life. His unique "Talknology" curriculum goes beyond traditional learning, creating opportunities for students to connect meaningfully with one another, grow their social awareness, and take ownership of their learning journey.
Mark has always believed that technology, when used thoughtfully, can open doors for students, empowering them in ways that transcend the classroom. His approach to teaching and leadership integrates cutting-edge tools and work-based learning experiences that bring real-world relevance into students’ lives. As a leader in the NYC Public School system, Mark is at the forefront of the city’s efforts to integrate Artificial Intelligence into education, ensuring that every student—not just a select few—can benefit from these advancements. His vision is one where AI, technology, and compassion work hand-in-hand to create brighter futures for all learners.
Mark considers himself a lifelong learner, whose passion for education is complemented by his other passions which include, all things magic, Star Wars, technology, writing & recording music and even pro-wrestling (aka. Sports Entertainment). Mark loves spending time with his wife Stacy and son Mark, and is so proud and inspired by their accomplishments, talents, creativity and is grateful for their neverending unconditional support.
