When it involves building a strong school culture Watervliet Elementary School’s new assistant principal John Lantz has shown he is not afraid to get his hands dirty, literally.
Unlike Oscar the Grouch — the Sesame Street character who lives in a garbage can — John Lantz once climbed into a garbage receptacle at his former school to promote cleaner hallways and support a more positive learning environment.
“That, in a nutshell, is the type of person I am and the type of administrator I aim to be,” said Mr. Lantz. “Someone who does what is needed to support the students, staff, and community.”
The Board approved the appointment of Mr. Lantz to assistant principal in July. He joins Principal Meg Maset who stepped into that role at the elementary school after Ryan Groat was tapped to be director of operations, a new district-wide position.
Mr. Lantz earned his master’s degree in Elementary and Special Education at Sage College, where he also completed his School Building and District Leader certification.
He has a diverse background in education having served as a special education teacher in Queensbury, and more recently, as a fifth-grade teacher in the Wynantskill school district. While in graduate school, Mr. Lantz worked as a residential counselor at Healy House, a Northern Rivers affiliate that offers behavioral health and social/emotional support for children ages 5–12 and their families. He credits this experience with shaping his values and approach to education.
“I chose a career in education because I simply love school! Education allows me to work with students to not only help them learn, but also help them become great people,” he said. “We have all had teachers along the way who have brought us joy and have made learning fun. I hope to be that for all of Watervliet Elementary School.”
Mr. Lantz shared that his immediate goal is to get to know the school’s teachers and staff, as well as elementary students and their families. Looking ahead, he described other aspirational goals he hopes to achieve personally and professionally.
“Outside of one day owning my own golf simulator, my goals are to become an administrator who inspires those around me, while pushing students to be the best versions of themselves,” he said. “I also want to make a positive impact on the culture of our school building and the surrounding community.”
Five Questions with John Lantz
Family, children, pets?
My wife, Taylor, who is also a teacher in the area. No pets, but someday soon I hope to have a dog running around!
What activities do you enjoy in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy watching sports, playing golf and pickleball, spending time with my friends and family, and reading.
What is your favorite book (or current book that you are reading)?
I’m an avid reader of just about anything fantasy or sci-fi, though I’m always trying to branch out. My favorite book of all time is “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexander Dumas.
What makes you laugh?
I don’t think anyone can make me laugh quite like my wife does.
Any other thoughts you would like to share with the school community and Watervliet families?
I am just super excited to take all of my experiences and put them towards Watervliet. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and working with Mrs. Maset to give our students the best education possible while supporting all students.