At the end of last year, we announced Dave Austin as Schodack’s new Director of Physical Education, Health, Wellness & Athletics. After starting his new role a few weeks ago, we checked in with a Q&A before the 2026–27 school year starts so you could learn a bit more about him. See what Mr. Austin had to say below!
Dave Austin, Schodack’s Director of Physical Education, Health, Wellness & Athletics
Tell us about your background.
I earned my bachelor’s in Physical Education from SUNY Cortland, my master’s in Health Education from The Sage Colleges, and my School District Leadership certification from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA).
Professionally, my career began right here in Schodack CSD. From 2006 to 2018, I taught physical education and health while also coaching a variety of sports, including soccer, tennis, basketball, and softball. In 2014, I transitioned into the role of Athletic Director, serving in that position until 2018.
Following my time in Schodack, I served as the Director of Health, Physical Education & Athletics at Mohonasen Central School District (2018–2020) and at Guilderland Central School District (2020–2026). Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating positive experiences for students through athletics, supporting coaches and teachers, and helping schools build programs that promote teamwork, sportsmanship, wellness, and student success.
What brought you back to Schodack?
Schodack has always been home to me. I grew up here, competed as a student-athlete, graduated from Maple Hill, and began my professional career here. This district has played such an important role in my personal and professional life, so the opportunity to return was incredibly meaningful.
I’ve always held this district in the highest regard. It’s one of the premier small districts in the Capital Region, with a strong tradition of overall excellence. What makes it especially unique, though, is its community. Events like Fall Sports Weekend and Hoops Against Hunger are great examples of how this community comes together to support its students and one another. There is a tremendous sense of pride and connection here that is hard to find anywhere else. I’m honored and excited to be back.
What have you been working on since starting, and what are some goals for the remainder of the summer?
With the fall sports season quickly approaching, my priority has been supporting our coaches as they prepare. Varsity and JV sports begin on August 24, with modified sports following on August 31. I’ve been connecting, and in many cases reconnecting, with coaches to make sure they know I’m here to support them and help provide what they need to create a successful experience for our student-athletes.
As the school year gets underway, my broader focus will be on the experiences we provide our students in athletics, physical education, and health. The lessons students learn, the relationships they build, and the memories they create through these programs often stay with them for a lifetime. I want to do everything I can to ensure those are positive, meaningful, and memorable.
Although I previously worked in Schodack, it’s been several years. Our current high school students were in elementary school when I was last here, so many of them don’t know me yet. I’m looking forward to introducing myself, being visible, and building relationships.
I’m also excited to learn from the people who are already doing great work here while also sharing ideas and initiatives that were successful in my previous districts. I believe the best results come from listening, collaborating, and continually looking for ways to make already great programs even better.
Right off the bat, what do you want the Schodack community to know about your work style?
I’m approachable, and I truly mean that. Whether you are a student, parent, coach, teacher, or community member, you can feel comfortable reaching out to me. I believe listening is one of the most important parts of this job. Every question, concern, or idea deserves to be heard, and if something requires action, I will do my best to follow through in a timely manner.
I also firmly believe that we are in this together. Providing outstanding experiences for our students is not the responsibility of one person or one department. It is something we accomplish by working together.
Finally, what’s life like outside of work?
When I’m not at work, I’m spending time with my family. My wife, Jillian, and I live down the road in East Greenbush with our two sons, Brady (10) and Brooks (8). I look forward to spending even more time with them now that I’m working closer to home.
Brady and Brooks are beginning their own athletic journeys, so these days, a lot of time revolves around youth sports. Whether we’re at the football field, baseball field, or basketball court, I love watching the two of them learn, grow, and have fun.
When I do have a little downtime, I enjoy playing golf, even if my scorecard doesn’t always reflect my enthusiasm! Once fall arrives, you’ll almost certainly find me cheering on Notre Dame football every Saturday. It’s my favorite time of year, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it back in the Schodack community.
