About

Mark Erlenwein is a 29-year educator, alumnus, and storyteller-in-chief since 2013 as the principal of the top-ranked and nationally revered Staten Island Technical High School. A dynamic education leader, he combines enthusiasm, creativity, innovation, collaboration, and technology with a philosophy of service above self to cultivate growth mindsets and make school environments highly engaging, rigorous, relevant, and future-ready. He is also a recognized communicator and problem-solver with expertise in English rhetoric, STEAM education, data-driven 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. Recently, Niche.com ranked Staten Island Tech the 15th best public high school in the nation and third in both New York City and New York State. Mr. Erlenwein earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English Rhetoric from CUNY – The College of Staten Island, along with his Administrator’s Certificate from the College of St. Rose.

Mark’s connection to Staten Island Tech began as a student in the class of 1992. He returned in 1997 to teach science and technology and advanced to Assistant Principal in 2005, overseeing STEAM, Pupil Personnel Services, English, Foreign Language, and College Admissions. He also served as an adjunct professor at CUNY’s College of Staten Island, teaching Advanced Human Assessment in the 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. He is also a Columbia University 2018 Cahn Fellow, a 2024 CUNY Hunter College Gray Fellow, and the recipient of the 2018 United Activities Unlimited – Louis DeSario Educator of the Year Award.

A passionate advocate for students of all abilities; gifted, twice-gifted, and neurodiverse, Mark believes in the power of every student to thrive regardless of grades, background, or circumstances. His pioneering “Talknology” curriculum helps students develop communication, social, and leadership skills, ensuring they can succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

Mark is a leading national voice in the integration of Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centered Skills in education. As both a practitioner and a sought-after public speaker, he has traveled the country addressing educators, policymakers, and industry leaders on how AI can enhance, not replace, essential human skills such as communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and compassion. His vision places technology and humanity side by side, ensuring that innovation uplifts students’ voices and futures.

A lifelong learner, Mark’s passion for education is matched by his love of magic, Star Wars, technology, music, and even professional wrestling (sports entertainment). Above all, he treasures time with his wife Stacy and son Mark, whose talents, creativity, and support inspire him every day.

Make contact with Mark Erlenwein via email at: MarkErlenwein@me.com, or Merlenw@schools.nyc.gov.