The Pine Bush Central School District Board of Education announced Tuesday night that Joseph Lenz will be the district’s superintendent, beginning July 1, 2025.

 

 

The name and face are probably familiar since Lenz has been assistant superintendent for business in the district for the past three years. Most staff and many parents/guardians and students already know him from various events throughout the district – moving up ceremonies and graduations, musicals and concerts, art shows, sporting events and Odyssey of the Mind competitions.

“I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to lead our amazing district,” said Lenz. “I am honored by the trust that has been placed in me by our board of education. We work together well and certainly share the most important mission – to provide a quality education for our students that prepares them for whatever path they choose – be it a career, higher education or military service.”

“We are so excited to appoint Mr. Joseph Lenz as our new superintendent for the Pine Bush Central School District,” said board President Gretchen Meier. “His commitment to our district has been proven since his arrival, in all areas from business to sports, plays and the Christmas Tractor Parade! We can’t wait to see where our combined vision takes us! The atmosphere and beyond is the limit!”

Throughout his career and education, Lenz’s focus has been on the business side of education, always coupling that with the educational priorities for students. He earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in business and a Certificate of Advance Study in school business from The College of Saint Rose. He also earned a certificate in school district leadership from SUNY Oswego.

“My passion for education stems from a strong desire to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education that meets their unique needs and prepares them for success in any path they choose,” Lenz said.

But there is more to a child than their educational success, he notes.

“Beyond academic success, I am dedicated to promoting the social and emotional growth of every child, ensuring they are empowered to excel in all areas of their lives and become positive, contributing members of our community.”

 

“Joe’s deep understanding of our district’s needs, combined with his steady leadership and commitment to student success, make him the ideal person to guide Pine Bush into the future,” said Amy Brockner, the district’s interim superintendent of schools. “I am confident that under Joe’s leadership, our district will continue to move forward—building on our strengths, embracing innovation, and always putting students first.”

Lenz’s mantra is, “We do this for kids.” And that includes every person in the district. “Everyone truly has an impact on our students, whether they’re in a classroom with them, serving them a meal, providing transportation or keeping our facilities clean and sanitary,” he said. “That’s what our team is about here in Pine Bush. We prioritize kids and it shows. That’s the team I want to build upon.”

Prior to coming to Pine Bush in 2022, Lenz served as assistant superintendent for business at the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery and Port Jervis school districts. He started his career in education at Schalmont Central School District in Schenectady as a school business administrator and district clerk. He is chief finance officer of the OU Health Plan and the newly appointed chairperson of the Orange – Ulster School Districts Workers Compensation Plan, both volunteer positions.

When he is not working or volunteering his time, Lenz likes to explore new places and attend concerts with his wife, Deana, and spend time with their dog, Mr. Barkley.

“I am committed to building on the strong foundation of success that exists and working collaboratively to take our district to the next level,” Lenz said. “Through open communication, collaboration and a focus on continuous improvement, I am confident we can create an environment where every student thrives, every educator is supported, and the community is actively engaged in the success of the district. I look forward to our future together.”