In the hallways of North Forsyth High School, Jared Steinberg has recently embarked on a new chapter in his career, transitioning from a dedicated history teacher to a key member of the school’s administrative team. With 22 years in education under his belt, Steinberg’s journey reflects a blend of experience, passion and a touch of humor.
Steinberg’s path to administration wasn’t a spontaneous decision. When asked to elaborate he responded, “whenever you’re doing something for a long time, I think new challenges are needed.” After 21 years as a teacher and a decade at North, Steinberg felt the urge to take on a new role. His background as a head soccer coach and his extensive experience in the classroom provided a solid foundation for his new responsibilities.
So, what’s it like stepping into this new role? “It’s a lot more lonely,” Steinberg admits. The community he once enjoyed with his colleagues in the Social Studies department has shifted as he now navigates administration. The change is part of the growth process, much like transitioning to a different department or school would be.
As an administrator, Steinberg’s responsibilities are diverse. He manages facilities issues-everything from malfunctioning lights to broken furniture-and handles student discipline. Additionally, he supports various departments, including Fine Arts and oversees teacher evaluations. This role contrasts sharply with his previous one as a teacher, where direct interaction with students was a daily highlight.
Despite the shift, Steinberg acknowledges what he misses most about teaching: the direct connection with students. During the interview he states, “This is the longest I’ve spoken to students all year in a non-discipline setting.” He misses teaching subjects like AP Government and Economics, enjoying the opportunity to engage with students on topics and share stories from his experiences.
One of Steinberg’s favorite aspects of his new role is feeling like he’s making a difference. “I like working hard and knowing that teachers trust me,” he says. The trust and respect from colleagues drive him to be a reliable resource, even if he sometimes feels the weight of expectations, like the ongoing issue with air conditioning in parts of the building.
Steinberg’s educational journey began at the University of West Georgia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in Political Science. He continued his studies at Troy University, earning a master’s degree in post-secondary education and a specialist degree in general education. His academic background is wrapped up by various certifications, including gifted learners and leadership.
Outside of work, Steinberg’s life is a blend of professional dedication and personal passions. He spends weekends and evenings at North, but his family life is equally important. His daughter, a soccer player who trains intensively, keeps him busy with her tournaments. Traveling is another cherished activity for Steinberg and his family, with recent trips including European countries and Disney.
When asked a quirky question about which animal he’d be, Steinberg playfully chooses a kangaroo, citing the pouch as a fun feature and a chance to explore Australia.
Steinberg’s philosophy as an administrator centers on hard work and continuous improvement. “If I don’t know something, I work hard to find out and learn,” he says. His commitment to being present and proactive in addressing challenges underscores his dedication to supporting both teachers and students.
Working alongside his wife, who is also a teacher, adds another layer to Steinberg’s professional life. While they used to share the same department, their paths have diverged since his move to administration. “I don’t see her much now,” he notes, acknowledging the hardships becoming an admin has brought.
Reflecting on his time in education, Steinberg shares a memorable story from his teaching days. He recalls being kicked out of a Dunkin’ Donuts and turning the experience into a lesson on diminishing marginal returns. It’s anecdotes like these that made his classes memorable, illustrating his unique approach to teaching and his ability to connect with students through humor and real-life experiences.
As Jared Steinberg continues his journey in school administration, his blend of experience, dedication and personal touch ensures he remains a valued member of the North Forsyth High School community. His transition from teacher to administrator exemplifies a commitment to growth and service, promising a positive impact on both staff and students. So if you see him in the hall, say hi!
