Dr. Christopher Huss, an assistant superintendent of Edison Township Public Schools, has built his career on a passion for education and commitment to student success. His education journey was not predetermined, but rather, a discovery that shaped his life and leadership philosophy. Huss found his calling through role models he encountered in his own schooling experience.
He entered Rutgers University without a clear direction, uncertain of what career path he wanted to pursue. However, through reflection and inspiration from teachers who made a lasting impact on him, he realized the significance of education in shaping young minds.
“I went into Rutgers undecided, and by the time I came out, I kept thinking back to the people that inspired me when I was in school,” Huss said. “I saw them as role models, and I wanted to do the same for others.”
His path to teaching wasn’t straightforward. After graduating college, Huss became a substitute teacher working towards his education degree.
“On my second day, a math teacher broke her arm, and the principal came to me and said, ‘Hey, rumor has it you’re pretty good at math. Can you teach seventh grade math until she heals?’” he said. “That first day in front of the class, I realized— this is what I want to do.”
Huss believes that effective leadership is rooted in passion.
“If you go to school for 180 days, you get tired. Some days, you don‘t want to wake up and go to work. But you have to stay passionate and remember why you started,” he said.
Huss’s commitment to education is evident in his focus on fostering an environment where students and educators feel motivated. He also emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, regardless of circumstances.
“In a leadership position, it’s easy to treat people poorly because you have power. But you have to deliver even bad news with grace,” Huss said. “Early in my career, I saw leaders treat people in ways that made me cringe. I promised myself that if I ever got into that position, I would lead with respect and compassion.”
As an assistant superintendent, Huss plays a critical role in ensuring that the schools operate smoothly while maintaining a direct connection with students and teachers. His days are unpredictable, filled with meetings, problem-solving, and ensuring that educational initiatives align with district goals.
“A typical day never goes according to plan,” he admitted. “Emergencies always come first. Whether it is a fire at a school or a bus accident, those things take priority over anything on our calendar.”
Despite the demanding nature of his role, Huss makes a conscious effort to stay engaged with students.
“Going to extracurricular activities is important. You get to see students outside the classroom, and the interaction makes a difference,” he said. “If we don’t make time for those moments, we lose sight of why we do what we do.”
One of the most difficult challenges Huss faced as an educational leader was navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I was an assistant superintendent in a small district at the time, and suddenly, I was making medical decisions with no precedent,” Huss said. “Some people wanted remote learning, some wanted schools open, some wanted masks, some didn’t. It was a balancing act with no perfect solution.”
Despite the immense pressure, he stays focused on doing what is best for students and staff.
“At the end of the day, you make decisions with integrity, knowing that you did what you believed was right,” Huss said.
Another defining challenge of his career was managing the transition from the traditional education system to one embracing technology.
“Technology should be a tool, not a replacement for human interaction,” he said. “We have to balance the benefits of AI and digital learning with the need for students to develop social skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.”
Huss envisions a future where Edison’s schools remain at the forefront of educational innovation while maintaining strong foundational values.
“We need to keep moving forward. We can’t wait for other districts to pass us by and then try to catch up. We should be leaders in innovation,” he said.
Huss hopes to leave behind a legacy of progress and inspiration. “I don’t think about my legacy in terms of having a building named after me,” he said with a smile. “What matters to me is making sure that we don’t get complacent— that we keep evolving and improving.”
Huss advises students and young professionals to take risks and embrace challenges.
“Do what you love. If you follow your passion, it won’t feel like work,” he said.
