Stephen Cedars

A multifaceted educator with roots in south Louisiana, Stephen brings his background as a teacher, writer, director, and scholar to his work with students. Since graduating from Louisiana State University Honors College with dual degrees in literature/theater and history, he has dedicated himself to education across diverse settings—adapting his approach to different learning styles and age groups with remarkable versatility.

Stephen’s teaching experience spans an impressive range of contexts: from prestigious institutions like Hunter College High School and the Dalton School to specialized programs like Prep for Prep and UTA Yeshiva. He has worked as a classroom instructor, test preparation specialist, academic mentor, and creative writing coach, consistently helping students discover their intellectual potential while developing practical academic skills.

What makes Stephen particularly effective is how he integrates his scholarly and creative pursuits into his teaching. His academic work has been published in journals throughout the United States and United Kingdom, spanning fields from philosophy to cultural studies. As Managing Artistic Director of JNS Theatre for Social Change, he bridges academic research and creative expression, a perspective that enriches his approach to education.

Parents and students especially value Stephen’s ability to connect rigorous academic standards with engaging, personalized instruction. Drawing on his MFA from NYU’s Department of Dramatic Writing and his ongoing doctoral work in Theatre and Performance at CUNY Graduate Center, he helps students develop not just stronger academic skills, but more confident, authentic voices.