Administration

Welcome from Dr. Hazenstab, Superintendent of Schools

Hello Penns Valley!

I’m grateful to serve as your Superintendent in a community that values its traditions and shows up for its public schools. I’ve already seen that Penns Valley is a special place where people look out for one another and give their best every day. My promise to you is to build on that strong foundation, ensuring our schools remain welcoming environments where every student gets what they need to succeed.

My Approach

My leadership approach is rooted in the belief that people, not programs, build great schools. I focus on building authentic relationships, listening carefully, and keeping people at the center of every decision. Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, I learned early on the values of hard work, respect, and collaboration. A few principles guide my daily work:

• Students First: Every decision must support our kids' academic, social, and personal growth.
• Direction Over Pace: Moving together in the right direction matters far more than rushing ahead alone.
• The Power of Listening: The best solutions happen when you listen twice as much as you speak.

Path to Penns Valley

Over the course of my career in public education, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with students, teachers, and communities at multiple levels.

• Superintendent, Penns Valley Area (2026–Present): Joined Penns Valley on June 2, 2026, bringing experience and a genuine excitement to serve this community.
• Superintendent, Conemaugh Valley (2019–2026): Led the district through COVID-19, facility and safety improvements, and everyday operational challenges. Throughout my tenure, I focused on balancing strong opportunities for students with fiscal responsibility to the community.
• High School Principal (2011–2019): Served as High School Principal at Conemaugh Valley School District in Johnstown, PA. Over eight years, I focused on supporting teachers in the classroom, strengthening academic programs, and encouraging student activities while overseeing daily operations.
• Assistant High School Principal (2008–2011): Served at Purchase Line School District, focusing on student attendance, fair discipline, and building positive relationships with families. It was a crucial step in my career that broadened my view of school-wide leadership.
• School Counselor (2002–2008): Served middle and high school students in grades 6 through 12. Working directly with students in one-on-one sessions, small groups, and full classrooms taught me to listen carefully and value what makes each student unique. I also coached multiple sports during these years and served as chairperson of the counseling department. 
• Residence Director (1999–2002): Served as a Residence Director at Shippensburg University while completing a master’s degree in education. Leading a building of 230 students taught me a great deal about people and established the foundation of my leadership approach.

Education & Credentials

• Vanderbilt University – Doctorate in Leadership and Learning in Organizations, 2026
• California University of Pennsylvania – Superintendent Certification, 2014
• Shippensburg University – Principal Certification, 2007
• Shippensburg University – Master’s Degree in Education, 2002
• Juniata College – Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, 1999

Personal Life & Family

Outside of work, my world centers around my faith and family. My wife, Danielle, and I were married in 2000. I’m grateful for the ongoing love and support of my parents, Tim and Martha, who helped instill the values that guide me today. Danielle and I could not be prouder of our three children: Caden (a 2023 Penn State graduate working as an AI demand planner for Dell), Maya (a 4^th year accounting student at Penn State), and Leya (a freshman studying education at Penn State). Rounding out our family are our two mini goldendoodles, Shaggy and Scooby. In my free time, I enjoy watching sports, especially Penn State football and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Road Ahead

I am excited to work with our amazing teachers, dedicated staff, and school community as we write the next chapter together for Penns Valley. It’s a great day to be a RAM!