Superintendent

Dr. Michael Hynes, Superintendent of Schools for Port Washington Union Free School District, is a Fulbright Specialist and an associate professor of education and leadership at Long Island University and Stony Brook University. His mission is to spread the message of the importance of a holistic approach to educating children. He emphasizes the importance of play, recess in schools, mental health and mindfulness in the classroom as showcased in the documentary Chasing Childhood. Dr. Hynes is a former assistant superintendent, principal and classroom teacher. 

Hynes is also a public-school advocate, TEDx and keynote speaker. He is the author of the book “Staying Grounded: 12 Principles for Transforming School Leader Effectiveness” and has published numerous articles and featured on numerous podcasts on school leadership.  

Hynes received his undergraduate degree in psychology from Bethany College and his masters and doctorate in educational administration from Dowling College. He has undergone professional training to integrate organizational learning and school leadership into programs at New York University, Stony Brook University and Harvard University. Dr. Hynes has been awarded the “Friend of Education Award” and the “Distinguished Leadership Award” by Phi Delta Kappa as well as numerous other awards related to school leadership.