Matthew Hittenmark

High School Director

Since joining LION Charter School as a Health and Physical Education teacher in 2006, Matthew Hittenmark has consistently demonstrated his commitment to making a positive impact on LION’s students. During his first position at LION, Mr. Hittenmark developed the curriculum, assessed student mastery, and instructed physical education for grades K-10. After serving six years in the classroom, he transitioned to serve as LION’s Director of Athletics and Youth Development. Through this position, Mr. Hittenmark coordinated internships, led community service projects, and managed the arts, P.E., safety, and security at LION. Shortly after, Mr. Hittenmark became the Dean of School Life to ensure that all operations aligned with LION’s mission. Mr. Hittenmark then became LION’s Director of College Counseling & Post-Secondary Success, during which he guided students through the transition from high school graduation to post-secondary education. After four successful years working in post-secondary success, Mr. Hittenmark became Assistant High School Director, overseeing an expansion of our Advanced Placement Program to include AP Computer Science Principles and AP Capstone.  He has now assumed the role of LION’s new High School Director. In the summer of 2021, Mr. Hittenmark began his sixteenth year at LION.

Mr. Hittenmark graduated from Marist College earning his Bachelor of Arts in History. Mr. Hittenmark continued his education and earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Baruch College and a Master’s Degree in Adolescent Special Education from Hunter College. He has also attended the National Institute for Urban School Leaders at Harvard University.