by When you think of a school superintendent, you might imagine someone focused solely on test scores, discipline, and policy. But Dr. Matthew Strine, the new superintendent of Tuscarora School District (TSD), breaks that mold in every way.
He’s a former basketball player, an accomplished swimmer, a proud father of three—and above all, a passionate advocate for helping students discover their purpose.
Education is a Family Affair
For Dr. Strine, education isn’t just a career—it’s in his blood.
“My mom was a teacher, my dad was a teacher, my sister was a teacher, and I married a teacher,” he shared. “It’s kind of like the family business.”
That deep-rooted connection to education has shaped his vision for leading TSD. Whether he’s talking about his own children or the students he serves, his mission remains the same: help young people uncover what excites and inspires them.
“I want my kids to find what their passion is and what they are excited about—just like I want you all to find your passion and what you’re excited about,” said Strine.
Family First—Always
Dr. Strine and his wife Karen are the proud parents of three children: Julia (14), Jillian (13), and Joven (7). Even their names were chosen with intention—all meaning “youthful.”
“I just want them to stay young, have fun, and enjoy life,” he said.
Whether he’s making decisions for the district or thinking about a new initiative, his children are always in the back of his mind.
“I constantly ask myself, ‘Is this good enough for them?’” he said. “If it’s not good enough for my own kids, it’s not good enough for the students of TSD.”
A Leader Rooted in Student Experience
Dr. Strine believes education is more than reading and writing—it’s about building skills and finding purpose.
“My job as superintendent is to ensure students can read, write, listen, and speak effectively in multiple disciplines… and to help connect them with their passion or purpose.”
As a former student-athlete, Strine knows the importance of balance. Sports were a major part of his youth—he started in swimming and later found his way to the basketball court, where he wore number 44 in every game.
“I heard double digits were kind of lucky,” he laughed.
But he made one thing clear: “It’s always student-athlete—in that order. Academics come first.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Dr. Strine’s heart remains with the students. He thrives in school buildings and believes every learner has the potential to make a major impact.
“Who’s to say that the next greatest invention or humanitarian effort doesn’t start with a 15-year-old, a 12-year-old, an 18-year-old—or even a forty-something-year-old?” he said.
Despite his impressive resume and towering presence, Dr. Strine is approachable, relatable, and deeply passionate about his work.
And the best part? He’s here to help every student at Tuscarora find the same joy, curiosity, and purpose in learning that shaped his own life.
