Submitted Photo Pictured, from left, are Philip Johnson, Board of Education President Jennifer Michalec, and current Superintendent Daniel Pacos. Johnson will assume the role of superintendent on July 1.

ANGOLA – The Lake Shore Central School District Board of Education announced the appointment of Phil Johnson, M.Ed., as the district’s next superintendent during its April 22 Board of Education meeting. The announcement comes following an extensive search process that drew strong interest from across the region.

“I am humbled and honored to join the Lake Shore community as the next superintendent of schools,” Johnson said. “I know that I am stepping into a wonderful community of dedicated professionals and look forward to building relationships with students, staff, families, and the community,” he said. “I am grateful that the Board of Education and members of the hiring committee put their trust in me to join a district with a proud history of supporting students on their academic and personal journeys.”

Johnson, who most recently served as Principal of Windom Elementary in the Orchard Park Central School District, brings to Lake Shore a track record of fostering academic excellence, empowering educators, and building lasting community relationships.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Johnson to the Lake Shore family,” said Board of Education President Jennifer Michalec. “He emerged from a competitive pool of candidates as someone with not only the credentials and experience we were seeking, but also with a leadership style and personality that align well with our district’s culture and values.”

The superintendent search process was led by the full Board of Education and included participation from two advisory committees composed of instructional and non-instructional staff, community members, and parents.

“We had a large pool of highly qualified candidates, and the level of interest in the position was a strong reflection of the reputation of our district,” Michalec continued. “Through every stage of the interview process, Mr. Johnson consistently impressed us with his knowledge, integrity, and thoughtful approach to leadership.”

Johnson, who will assume his role on July 1, 2025, began his career in education in 2006, working for the New York City Public School system. Throughout his career, he has served as a general and special education teacher, data specialist, and principal for more than a decade.

“For the past nine years, I have been the proud principal of Windom Elementary in Orchard Park CSD where we have made improving outcomes for students our daily mission. We increased student achievement on a variety of measures, including local and state assessments with a focus on closing the gap for economically disadvantaged, minority, and special education students,” he said. “Student attendance and enrollment in co-curricular and extracurricular activities also increased over time, contributing to a positive school culture.”

Michalec echoed Johnson’s ability to drive academic improvement in his previous roles as a key factor.

“He has a very impressive record of raising academic achievement during his tenure,” she said. “Beyond the data, though, what really stood out was his genuine enthusiasm, kindness, and clear commitment to students and staff. We believe he is the right person to guide Lake Shore forward.”

As for initial priorities, Johnson echoed the Board’s focus on academic growth but also plans to dive into the ties that bind the district to the community.

“My hope is to support staff in growing programs for students by increasing access to opportunities and removing any barriers that prevent students from becoming fully engaged members of their schools and communities,” he said.

Phil Johnson lives in Western New York with his wife Melissa and their four children ranging in age from 5 to 10.