Theme: Growth in The Modern Age

Whether you’re passionate about personal growth, technological innovation, societal change, or any other interpretation of growth in today’s world, this is your chance to share your knowledge!

Lycée Français de New York
505 E 75th St.
New York, New York, 10021
United States

David Freeman

English Teacher

David Freeman is a high school English teacher at the Lycée Français de New York, where he helps bilingual students explore identity and storytelling across a range of genres. He teaches middle and high school English, AP Language & Composition, and a two-year research seminar called Connaissance du Monde. David is interested in the role of the Humanities in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms and AI, with a particular interest in how technology shapes students' lives. He previously wrote and produced a TED-Ed video on Shakespeare’s use of iambic pentameter, so he’s no stranger to the TED world—though this is the first time he’s brought death metal with him.

Iris Pontier

Student

Iris Pontier is a Senior at the Lycée Français de New York. She is an advocator for gender equality and will be delivering a talk titled “Quand la réussite scolaire ne suffit pas : l’égalité femmes-hommes en question”, in which she discusses gender inequalities in the professional world.

Lyess Bouderbala

Philosophy Teacher

Lyess Bouderbala is a philosophy teacher at the Lycée Français de New York who will be delivering a speech titled "Une approche décoloniale de la croissance". In his talk, he links the process of decolonization to Growth in the Modern Age through a philosophical lens, by introducing a reasoning based on many philosophers' thesis.

Thomas Serandon

Physics Teacher & Head of Libraries and Digital Learning

Thomas Serandon is an educational leader with over a decade of experience at the intersection of progressive pedagogy, digital innovation, and faculty development. As Head of Libraries and Digital Learning at the Lycée Français de New York, he has led cross-curricular initiatives spanning curriculum design, information literacy, technology integration, and ethical AI implementation. His work bridges pedagogy, technology, and policy—fostering inclusive, student-centered environments through strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and a deep commitment to future-ready learning.