The energy in the Pine Bush High School auditorium Wednesday morning for the opening convocation was palpable, as teachers and staff members gathered, greeting each other with hugs, smiles and much enthusiasm.

 

 

The district’s new superintendent, Joseph Lenz, welcomed the Pine Bush Central School District staff back for the 2025-2026 school year with a message – we are stronger together. That was backed up by the speakers he introduced.

 

 

Leaders of the unions representing our employees welcomed everyone from what they hoped was a restful summer. They had encouraging messages for everyone in the auditorium, reminding them that the reason we are all here is for our students.

 

Board of education President Gretchen Meier welcomed everyone back on behalf of the board and talked of their excitement to begin this new era in the history of Pine Bush.

 

“This district never fails to prove its commitment and resilience for the children who come to our schools,” said Ms. Meier. She went back to 2001 when the World Trade Center was attacked. “Our faculty and staff immediately protected and insulated our kids from the tragedy that unfolded, then educated them to become global citizens of the world.”

We worked together to create No Place for Hate, she continued. We rallied everyone to survive the pandemic. “Everyone who wears a badge in the district kept our kids moving forward,” she said. “We are resilient. We are strong. We are innovative. We will support each other to ensure the children of this district will be the best version of themselves.”

 

And that was the message Mr. Lenz honed in on – supporting each other to best support our students, and doing it together.

He shared his background, as the first in his family to go to college, and reflected on his journey to this point.

“Like many of you, my journey hasn’t followed a straight line,” he said. “But every step has reinforced one important truth: that education changes lives. And more importantly, educators change lives.”

He talked about the people who most impacted his journey. First his father, a quiet man who offered encouragement, wisdom and unwavering support.

Second, was a his high school counselor, Doug Morrissey. “He saw potential in me before I saw it in myself,” said Mr. Lenz. His counselor took him on college visits and helped him with financial aid forms. He never stopped encouraging me, he said. “Without his influence, I’m not sure I would be standing here today. I know many of you have been that person for your students.”

 

Mr. Lenz called our schools “places of possibility.”

“They are places where someone’s belief, someone’s encouragement, someone’s presence – your presence – can change the course of a student’s life.”

 

 

The superintendent noted that this is the beginning of a new chapter in his professional journey, as he takes the helm leading the district.

“I stand here deeply honored and incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as superintendent of this exceptional school district,” said Mr. Lenz. “As I begin this role, I’m filled with excitement, hope, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. I also feel a profound appreciation for all of you, for the work you’ve done, and for the work we will do together.”

 

 

 

Mr. Lenz thanked the staff for choosing to serve this community and the countless ways they show up for the students and for each other.

“I am humbled and honored to be your superintendent,” said Mr. Lenz, “and I look forward to what we will accomplish together because we are stronger together.”

Here’s to an amazing 2025-2026 school year. We are stronger together. We are Pine Bush.