Northport-East Northport Names New STEM Director

NORTHPORT, NY — The Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education appointed Dr. Matthew Linger as the district’s next director of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, officials announced at its April 21 meeting.

He will replace current Director of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics David Storch who is retiring at the end of the school year.

Linger joins Northport-East Northport after most recently serving as the science coordinator in the Lindenhurst Union Free School District where he oversaw the overall operations of the science program, observed and evaluated secondary and elementary science teachers using the Danielson Framework, and planned and coordinated professional development activities for faculty.

Prior to this role, he served as an Earth Science teacher at Stimson Middle School in the South Huntington School District, where he held several leadership positions, including lead science teacher and differentiated instruction trainer, and was a member of the STEM Fair Committee.

“On behalf of our administrative team, we are excited to welcome Dr. Linger to the district as our new director of science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” Assistant
Superintendent for Learning and Teaching Dr. Candice Brodie said. “His vision for innovative, student-centered learning and commitment to expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics will be an incredible asset to our district. We are confident that Dr. Linger will inspire both students and staff while strengthening our programs and preparing learners for success in an ever evolving world.”

Linger holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in social science and sociology from St. Joseph’s College, a Master of Science degree in elementary education with a concentration in curriculum and instruction from Long Island University, a Post-Master’s certification in educational leadership from Stony Brook University, and a doctorate in educational policy and leadership from Hofstra University.

“I am excited to join the Northport-East Northport School District, a community that clearly values the potential of every student,” Dr. Linger said. “I believe that when students are genuinely engaged, learning becomes deeper and more lasting. I look forward to working as the director of STEM to create learning experiences that spark students’ curiosity, challenge their thinking and lead them to meaningful outcomes.”