Sycamore Community Schools

Chad Lewis

Chad Lewis, Superintendent of Sycamore Community them as tools for learning Schools, has made significant strides in student achievement and operational efficiency. Beginning his career as a science teacher, he discovered a passion for supporting student growth through strong relationships. This led him to school administration, where he eventually became Director of Business Operations at Fairfield High School. There, he implemented strategic contract renegotiations and operational improvements that saved the district millions. Over the past 13 years, Lewis has led one of Ohio's topperforming districts by aligning goals across all schools and central office, focusing on academic excellence, efficiency and innovation grounded in educational fundamentals.

In an interview with Education Insider, Lewis emphasizes community engagement, strategic planning and strong leadership teams.

What are your primary roles and responsibilities?

My typical day combines strategic oversight with community engagement, collaborating with leaders, supporting staff, analyzing data and meeting with families, community members and board leaders. Personally, I am deeply invested. I live in the district and send my children to our schools. Every decision I make impacts students, staff and my own family, reinforcing my commitment to our mission.

How has your role evolved in response to the increasing influence of technology and the broader changes in district operations and responsibilities?

Being a superintendent today is more challenging than ever. The role requires navigating a complex political environment while supporting the emotional well-being of the entire school community. These challenges became even more pronounced after COVID-19 when societal divisions deepened, and consensus became harder to achieve. Every decision seems met with opposition, making it difficult to maintain civility and focus. However, our mission remains clear: to serve students, not advance personal or political agendas.

“Instead of fearing emerging technologies, we should embrace Chad Lewis, Superintendent of Sycamore Community them as tools for learning.”

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is another significant factor reshaping our work. Education has traditionally been reactive, but we must now adopt a proactive approach. Instead of fearing emerging technologies, we should embrace them as tools for learning. As the world evolves, our students must be prepared for an ever-changing job market, teaching them problem-solving, critical thinking and adaptability alongside traditional curricula.

In our district, we strive for innovation. Our high school’s Synnovation Lab takes a unique approach, focusing on projectbased learning, seminar-style instruction and self-paced mastery of concepts. This model tailors education to students' needs and learning styles, resulting in performance comparable to traditional pathways. It proves that when we meet students where they are, they can thrive in different ways.

What key tech trends and developments do you anticipate shaping the education sector over the next 18 to 24 months?

The biggest challenge ahead is navigating financial and political obstacles in education. Instead of focusing on these roadblocks, national efforts should prioritize delivering the best education for all students, from preschool to high school. We need to ensure an equitable educational experience nationwide.

Local control is crucial. The federal government should empower districts to meet local needs while recognizing our collective responsibility to prepare students for the future. We must address emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence and workforce shortages, especially as older generations retire from critical trade positions. Instead of viewing these shortages as problems, we should proactively prepare for them.

Our district is committed to innovation, challenging students through project-based learning and emerging technologies. Over the next 18 to 24 months, new tools will make education easier, and we must be ready to integrate them. I remain optimistic about the future of education, especially as young people are already accomplishing extraordinary things with technology.

For example, students have created an app to help children with disabilities learn the alphabet. They also developed an AIdriven college application search tool and repurposed an old Nintendo Wii to assist students with physical disabilities. Some even presented their work at the United Nations.

These examples reflect the incredible leadership and initiative of our students. One student even organized a car show with 250 vehicles to benefit a charitable cause, showcasing his passion and leadership. We must continue to provide opportunities for students to demonstrate leadership, engage in internships and participate in apprenticeship programs, ensuring they are prepared for the future.

What sage advice would you offer to a peer or aspiring professional?

First and foremost, engaging with the community to understand their goals and needs of the district, staff and students is essential. Creating a strategic plan is transformative. If your district doesn’t have one, make it a priority. A strategic plan aligns everyone toward common goals, ensuring a shared mission and vision. We keep our mission and vision central by reading it at every board meeting and including it on every agenda.

Avoid chasing the latest trends without a clear strategy. Be intentional about what you implement, ensuring innovation enhances rather than replaces your core responsibilities, such as teaching state standards.

Strong relationships with your administrative team and board are crucial. You must have honest, sometimes difficult conversations and stand up for what’s right, even if it risks job security. Implementing significant changes, like overhauling schedules or staffing models, requires trust and support from your team.

Lastly, superintendents must prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. Balancing district demands with personal life is challenging. Anyone considering the role should assess their ability to manage both without sacrificing well-being or success.