Maurice W. Downing Primary School will begin the school year under new leadership as Joe Kuehn takes over as principal, bringing more than 18 years of experience in education and a collaborative approach focused on communication and student success.
Kuehn joins Downing after serving as assistant principal for the past three years at Howard T. Herber Middle School in the Malverne school district. Before entering administration, he spent 15 years in the classroom, teaching multiple grade levels and subject areas.
“I’m looking forward to establishing a clear vision for the school where every child is known, supported,” Kuehn said, “and inspired to become a proficient reader and a lifelong learner.”
He began his career as a student teacher in the Oceanside school district before serving in elementary leave replacement positions in the Oceanside and Lynbrook school districts. He later worked as a second-grade Academic Intervention Services math teacher before spending nine years teaching sixth grade in the Jericho school district, where he taught English, social studies, math and science.
Although his most recent administrative experience has been at the middle school level, Kuehn said his background in elementary education has prepared him for the transition to a primary school setting. His experience teaching students from second through sixth grade has given him an understanding of how children develop academically and socially and the foundation established in the early grades.
As principal, Kuehn hopes to build on the school’s existing strengths while creating a vision centered on ensuring every child feels known, supported and inspired to become a proficient reader and lifelong learner. Rather than introducing sweeping changes, he plans to work alongside the school’s staff to continue fostering a strong learning environment for students in kindergarten through second grade.
Communication and relationship-building will be central to his leadership approach. At Howard T. Herber Middle School, Kuehn regularly communicated with families through newsletters and helped establish the school’s social media presence.
At Downing, he plans to continue using existing communication channels while attending school events, meeting families and building relationships with students and the broader school community.
“Exceptional leadership begins with building trust, and Joe has consistently demonstrated an ability to connect with Malverne families, ensuring they are true partners in their children’s growth from the very start,” Superintendent Maria Rianna said.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from SUNY Oneonta and later completed a master’s degree in literacy education for grades K-12, and a second master’s degree in school leadership from Touro College. He also holds certification to teach mathematics in grades 7-12.
Kuehn intentionally spent many years in the classroom before pursuing school administration because he believed firsthand teaching experience would better prepare him to support educators and students.
As he begins his new role, Kuehn said he is focused on helping students transition into the new school year while fostering a welcoming environment for families. He said he hopes to build on the school’s success and contribute to another strong year for the Downing community and the Malverne school district.
“I’m looking forward to starting a wonderful new chapter for myself, but to have a fantastic school year for the Malverne family.” Kuehn said.
