At its business meeting on March 31, the Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. Kenneth Bossert as the district’s new superintendent, effective July 1, 2016. Dr. Bossert joins Elwood with a wealth of educational and leadership experience, most recently serving as superintendent of schools for the Port Jefferson Union Free School District, a post he has held since 2011.

In his time with Port Jefferson, Dr. Bossert led the district through five successful budget cycles, all within the district’s tax levy cap, and with nearly 80 percent approval ratings. He also helped to expand Advanced Placement offerings at the high school, as well as other courses through which students could earn college credit. Dr. Bossert steered the district through its creation of a STEM collaborative with Stony Brook University and established district committees for curriculum development, professional development, AIS and RTI services and technology. He also expanded the district’s use of Columbia University’s Teachers College writing program.

Prior to his superintendency in Port Jefferson, Dr. Bossert worked in the Three Village Central School District, first as the district’s executive director for curriculum and instruction and then transitioning into the role of assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. He also served in the capacity of building principal in the Eastport-South Manor Central School District, assistant principal in the Longwood Central School District, and as an elementary school teacher. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in child studies from St. Joseph’s College, a Master of Arts and an advanced graduate degree in school administration from Stony Brook University, and a Doctor of Educational Leadership and Technology from Dowling College. He also completed the educational leadership program offered through Harvard’s Graduate School of Education.  

Dr. Bossert said he is looking forward to his new position with Elwood and is eager to meet the district’s stakeholders.

“The success of the new superintendent can hinge upon the relationships developed with the various stakeholders within the school community,” he said. “I will work vigorously to ensure that I create a positive rapport with all constituent groups and will make myself available to answer questions, respond to concerns and initiate future meetings with interested parties. Trust and transparency will be the key to my success.”

Dr. Bossert’s appointment completes the district’s search for its new leader, which consisted of extensive input from the community. “We are thrilled to announce Dr. Bossert as our new superintendent,” said Board of Education President Andrew L. Kaplan. “He not only has an extensive resume in educational leadership, but he possesses all of the qualities deemed essential in a new superintendent by our own community. We welcome Dr. Bossert to our great district and know that he will be a positive asset for years to come.”

The district will host a meet-and-greet session for parents and community members to meet Dr. Bossert prior to the next Board of Education meeting on Thursday, April 14 from 6:45-7:25 p.m. in the Elwood Middle School cafeteria.