Get To Know Mr. Feigin
By Carrie Berk
Assistant Head of School and High School Director Dan Feigin is the heartbeat of Trevor. In the midst of a busy or stressful week, a morning greeting or hallway conversation with him is guaranteed to turn one’s day around. But what’s behind the wide grin and assembly haircut talks? Read his exclusive interview below to find out.
When did you first come to the school?
I started at Trevor (formally The Day School) as a three-year-old in the preschool division. I attended Trevor through 8th grade (11 years) and then headed to high school in Brooklyn. It’s important to note that Trevor did not feature a high school at that time (1984). After completing four years of high school and four years of college, I returned to teach at Trevor in 1992. I taught high school English and coached varsity soccer and basketball for fifteen years before my move to administration.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The opportunity to watch students develop and transform into adults. It’s amazing to meet an eleven year old and be able to track the next eight years. I also enjoy the communication and collaboration fostered at Trevor between faculty and students. Trevor is a place I‘m able to enjoy—I laugh a lot here.
“Trevor is a place I‘m able to enjoy—I laugh a lot here.”
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
Students’ health and safety are my primary concerns, and when these two elements are at risk, it‘s often challenging to manage.
What’s the first thing you do when you get home from school?
We rescued/adopted a dog, Cooper, in the spring of 2019, so now my first duty (or doody) is often to walk the dog.
How did you spend your summer vacation?
This summer was a hodge podge of activity. In March 2019, I traveled to Finland to study the country’s approach to education and used the summer to write about the experience. I also went to Las Vegas to watch the NBA’s Summer League. I enjoyed several movies and Broadway shows and tried new restaurants.
What’s your favorite thing to do in New York?
I‘m a big people watcher. I love walking the streets and watching people.
What’s your favorite Broadway show and why?
I was blown away by Dear Evan Hansen. I found the concept and story so smart and engaging, and I also loved the music.
This or That:
Pasta Mondays or Pizza Fridays? Pizza Fridays.
English or math? English.
Halloween or Christmas? Halloween.
Football or basketball? Basketball.