ready to go!

Hello Global Glimpsers & Family!

My name is Socrates R. Ortiz Jr., a Dominican-American born and raised in New York City. I am the proud Principal of a NYC High School. I am so happy to be traveling with you this summer as one of your Global Glimpse Leaders! This is my second trip with Global Glimpse. Two summers ago, I traveled to Costa Rica for the first time, and this will be my first time to Panama, so I am looking forward to our journey together.

Even though this is just my second trip with Global Glimpse, I’m a huge fan of travel. I even started my own travel program at my high school, which has been an incredible experience. Plus, I’ve been an Ambassador Resident Director on Semester at Sea, which means I got to travel the world on a cruise ship with over 800 college students – talk about an adventure! I’m also a college professor at a local college and spent 10 years working as a psychotherapist at a mental health clinic in Queens.

 My international travel includes Venezuela, Brazil, Dominican Republic, South Africa, Kenya, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Spain, England, Germany, Amsterdam, Switzerland, France, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Haiti, Lichtenstein, Austria, and many more.

I’m happily married with two amazing kids, a 7-year-old son and a 4-year-old daughter. We’re a super active family, and we’ve learned a lot together, especially since both of my children live with Type 1 Diabetes. It’s been a new adventure for my wife and me, one that’s taught us a ton about strength, resilience, and problem-solving every single day.

For over 25 years (and counting!), I’ve worked with high schoolers, including my time as a Director of the Guidance Department, an Assistant Principal, and even as the Principal of two different high schools right here in the New York City Department of Education. So, I totally get what makes high school unique, and I’m all about helping young people navigate their journey.

In my office, I have four words that guide everything I do: Transparency, Respect, Fairness, and Consistency. These aren’t just words; they’re how I live and lead, and they’ll definitely be part of our adventure together.

I genuinely can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with each of you! Get ready to make some incredible memories and have a truly awesome time.

See you soon!