From the Principal

JOSEPH ENGELHARDT

Joseph Engelhardt brings more than two decades of educational leadership and classroom experience to his role as Principal of Mount Vernon STEAM Academy.

He began his career as a teacher in New York City, where he taught mathematics, science and finance to students in Brooklyn and Manhattan while coaching a variety of athletic programs. Those early experiences shaped his belief that strong relationships, high expectations and meaningful opportunities empower students to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

After nearly a decade in the classroom, Mr. Engelhardt was appointed Assistant Principal of Sleepy Hollow Middle School, where he worked closely with students, families, faculty and staff to foster a culture of respect, belonging and academic excellence.

He later served for eight years as Principal of Alexander Hamilton High School in Elmsford, leading efforts to strengthen student support systems, expand rigorous academic opportunities, increase family and community engagement and invest in the professional growth of educators. He championed student voice and leadership while helping cultivate a school culture grounded in pride, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Most recently, Mr. Engelhardt served as Head of School and Founding Head of School for a private school organization with campuses in White Plains and Chelsea. There, he partnered with educators, students and families to build innovative, collaborative, student-centered learning communities.

Mr. Engelhardt believes exceptional schools are built through authentic partnerships among students, families, educators and the broader community. His leadership is guided by a commitment to empowering student voice, fostering meaningful relationships and creating inclusive learning environments.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in financial management from Quinnipiac University; master’s degrees in education and educational leadership, respectively, from Long Island University and Brooklyn College; and is pursuing a doctorate in interdisciplinary education studies at Long Island University C.W. Post Campus.