Hampton Bays Public Schools Superintendent Lars Clemensen has been named the 2027 New York State Superintendent of the Year by the New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS), recognizing his outstanding leadership, commitment to students and contributions to public education.

The prestigious honor recognizes a superintendent who exemplifies exceptional leadership on behalf of students, staff and the broader school community. Since becoming superintendent of Hampton Bays in 2010, Clemensen has led the district with a focus on academic excellence and student well-being. Under his leadership, the district has vastly expanded its course offerings, including Advanced Placement, science research opportunities and dual enrollment college partnerships; with many programs taking advantage of the district’s coastal location to provide students with hands-on learning experiences focused on local beaches, marine ecosystems, environmental conservation, hospitality and tourism.

Additionally, he expanded the district’s prekindergarten program, developed a comprehensive K-12 bilingual education program and launched three in-house career and technical education programs. He also championed financial literacy education, leading the creation of the Baymen Financial Literacy Center at Hampton Bays High School in partnership with Teachers Federal Credit Union, which provides students with real-world financial education, on-campus banking services and opportunities to earn college credit.

NYSCOSS President Ken Bossert, superintendent of Great Neck UFSD praised Clemensen’s exceptional service, noting that “Lars’ selection as New York State Superintendent of the Year is a reflection of his nearly two decades of deeply committed service to his home district of Hampton Bays, as well as his noteworthy contributions to the county, region, and state that he so humbly serves. His unwavering commitment to equity and to ensuring that every student has access to the very best that public education has to offer has been nothing short of inspirational to all who have had the opportunity to observe his work—and to follow his lead. Lars not only passionately believes in the principle that “all means all;” he demonstrates it through the work he does every day. His leadership, dedication, and advocacy continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and educators and ultimately contribute to the betterment of public education for students across New York State.” 

Under Clemensen’s leadership, the district also made history with the opening of the Hampton Bays Middle School, recognized as the first fully LEED-Certified new school in New York State and honored nationally as a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.

“I am incredibly humbled to represent New York superintendents and my Hampton Bays community as the NYS Superintendent of the Year,” said Clemensen. “This honor is the result of the work of our Board of Education, dedicated leadership team, outstanding faculty and staff, and above all, our remarkable students. Empowering all students to leverage their potential to soar the day after graduation is our mission and I look forward to continuing to be a part of that work.”

“We are so proud to see Lars recognized as New York State Superintendent of the Year, an honor that reflects his exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to our students, staff and entire Hampton Bays community over the past two decades,” said Board of Education President Kevin Springer. “His leadership has created a culture of excellence, collaboration and pride throughout our schools while continually working to make our district stronger every day, with students at the center of every decision.”

NYSCOSS Executive Director Charles Dedrick expressed “In a time when visionary educational leadership is vital to student success, Lars Clemensen exemplifies, innovation thinking, unwavering dedication, and a deeply student-centered approach. His commitment to enriching educational opportunities and fostering community partnerships embodies the true spirit of this award. It is a privilege to honor a leader whose dedication will positively impact public education for years to come.”

Clemensen is widely recognized as a leader among educators. He previously served as president of NYSCOSS. He also served as president of the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association. Today, he continues to contribute to educational leadership at the national level as a governing board member of AASA, The School Superintendents Association. He is also an adjunct professor at Stony Brook University in the Educational Leadership Program and locally serves his community on several scholarship foundation boards and the Rotary Club of Hampton Bays. 

Clemensen will be recognized during The Council’s Winter Institute in March 2027. He will also represent New York State as its official nominee for National Superintendent of the Year, awarded by the American Association of School Administrators at the National Conference on Education in February 2027.