Dan Simon
Daniel Simon is now known as the principal (or "Chief" as often called by students) of High Technology High School. He graduated from the University of Dayton with a B.A. in mathematics and a minor in theater. He received a M.Ed. in Math Education from The College of New Jersey (when it was still Trenton State College) and a M.A. in Educational Leadership from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Simon is currently in his second year of study towards a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership through Liberty University.
He started as a math teacher in East Brunswick, where he also served as the soccer and softball coach and advisor for student council and drama club. He became the mathematics supervisor in several districts, most recently in Summit High School. He has also served as an adjunct instructor for several colleges and universities, including Kean, FDU, Monmouth, Walden, Brookdale Community College, Middlesex Community College, DeVry IT, and Rutgers.
Do you feel it is an obligation to involve yourself personally in HTHS affairs (i.e. shaving your head for a fund raiser)?
"I do not feel that it is an obligation, but instead, I feel that I want to be involved so that I am on a certain level with the faculty and the students so that I can represent who I am beyond just being the principal of the school."
How have you enjoyed working here at HTHS so far?
"I love working here. There is always the occasional issue, but other than that, I feel that being here at HTHS has been a great experience so far."
What plans do you have for the future of HTHS?
"I'm unsure of what is in store for the future of HTHS, because I feel that the school goes with the direction of the field. Since HTHS focuses on engineering and technology, I think that the future of HTHS is dependent on the profession and that the course of HTHS will follow suit in those fields."
What is your favorite aspect of HTHS?
"I like the camaraderie of the school the best, since everyone works so well together. In addition, all the students have good relationships with the faculty, and vise versa, so this creates a positive atmosphere in the school."
What experiences in your past jobs have you carried over to leading HTHS?
"I would say that my math background is helping me the most, because it helps me give perspective in the math, science, and technology focus in the school. I also think that being one step ahead in technology helps me see the current and future needs in these fields."
Which quote or phrase do you think best describes HTHS and you?
"Respectful, collaborative, giving, and patient."
What sets HTHS apart from any of the other high schools you have worked at?
"Many of the students take advantage of the incredible access of technology in the school. HTHS features many computer labs and wireless access from pretty much anywhere in the school, and compared to other high schools where there is only one computer lab that is shared by all people of the school. I also think that the students here have high expectations and are given the appropriate support so that they can meet these expectations. I also see a lot more respect and collaboration between everyone in the school, which is not as easily seen in some of the other high schools."
How do you see the typical HTHS student?
"The typical HTHS student is hard- working, considerate, intelligent, and I see each and every student as a leader of tomorrow, no matter what field they decide to go into, technological or not."
Is there any message you would like to convey to the students and faculty of HTHS?
"Don’t settle for less than your best."
"Value relationship as much as you value education."
"Always remember to appreciate what we’re fortunate enough to have access to."