Michael Hynes, a 53-year-old Superintendent of Schools for the Port Washington Union Free School District, was arrested for drinking and driving and severely injuring a motorcyclist on Sunday, November 24.
Michael Hynes was driving a Honda Civic when he made a left turn onto Depot Street and collided with a motorcycle heading in the opposite direction. The motorcyclist, 63-year-old Alberto Fernandez, was southbound on his Harley-Davidson. Fernandez sustained serious injuries, including a broken pelvis, crushed lungs, and damage to his spine.
Hynes was arrested on charges of misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, though he was later released after being arraigned on Monday. According to the New York Post, this accident marked Hynes's first such arrest.
More about Michael Hynes
Michael Hynes is an experienced educator and leader, who has been serving as the superintendent of the Port Washington School District since 2019.
He is a Fulbright Specialist and an associate professor of education and leadership at both Long Island University and Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in educational administration, with a focus on whole-child education, equity, and transformative learning experiences.
Hynes has held previous superintendent roles in Patchogue-Medford and Shelter Island, where he initiated key programs like Career and Technical Education.
He is also a TEDx speaker who talks about topics like holistic education. Here's a video of one of his talks:
According to his LinkedIn bio, Hynes has also authored a book Staying Grounded: 12 Principles for Transforming School Leader Effectiveness, and has been featured in educational documentaries and films.
How has the Port Washington School District responded to Michael Hyne's arrest?
In light of recent events, the Port Washington School District released a statement, appointing Dr. Christopher Shields as acting superintendent to ensure leadership continuity. In the statement, they wrote:
"The district is aware of the incident involving our superintendent of schools, Dr. Michael Hynes. We are gathering additional information. Dr. Christopher Shields has been appointed acting superintendent of schools, effective immediately. When more information is available, the community will be updated."
Hynes, who had already planned to step down from his role on December 13, explained that he had received an opportunity in the private sector, which he believes will be beneficial for him and his family.
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“During my tenure, I have been blessed to lead one of the premier school districts in New York State... During this time, I have worked collectively and collaboratively with our school board to establish systems and processes that have led to multiple improvements in our schools,”
Michael Hynes had written a letter to the district staff on November 9.
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