Darien Cruté is a Bronx native, educator, and storyteller whose journey into teaching began the moment he truly understood his mother's profession. A lifelong love of learning—and of sharing that knowledge—met a pivotal moment when his mother brought home the family's first computer. From the instant he saw the Windows logo flicker to life, Darien knew his future would be shaped by these "amazing machines."
After graduating from Canterbury School in New Milford, Connecticut, Darien earned a B.A. in Computer Science with a minor in Business from the University at Albany (SUNY), followed by an M.S. in Computer Science from Iona College. He later completed an M.A. in Independent School Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University, where he deepened his expertise in instructional leadership, ethics, strategic communications, and transformational change. Before becoming a full-time educator, he worked as a web and IT consultant and software test engineer, sharpening his programming, project management, and collaborative problem-solving skills.
In the classroom, Darien blends inquiry-based learning with hands-on, interdisciplinary projects, empowering students to explore computer science through topics and problems that resonate with them. His approach fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity while encouraging students to take ownership of their learning. Beyond academics, he invests deeply in building relationships with students, families, and colleagues, believing that strong connections are the foundation of meaningful education.
Outside of teaching, Darien is a voracious reader of science fiction, fantasy, manga, comics, and manhwa, and the author of Echoes of the Wickborne Flame: Born of Ash, his debut fantasy novel. He enjoys watching movies and TV—especially anime—playing a variety of games (card, board, and video), and spending time with family and close friends. A devoted sports fan, he can often be found cheering for the New York Mets and his other favorite teams.