KIRYAS JOEL, N.Y. (VINnews) — The former superintendent widely credited with helping establish the Kiryas Joel school district and guiding it through years of legal challenges has died at the age of 78, an announcement by current Superintendent Joel Petlin said.

Steven Benardo became the district’s first superintendent in 1989 after a career in New York City public education. Supporters say he played a central role in establishing the district and was instrumental in defending it through a decade of litigation.

He served as superintendent for 18 years and was regarded as a strong advocate for students, staff, and the broader Satmar Hasidic community.

Benardo worked closely with educators, officials, and community leaders throughout his career, with a particular focus on special needs students.

Petlin said the Kiryas Joel community is mourning his passing and credited Benardo with shaping the district and leaving a lasting impact on generations of students.

The Kiryas Joel community mourns the untimely passing of our first School Superintendent, Dr. Steven Benardo.

After a successful career in public education in NY City, Steve became KJ School Superintendent in 1989. Under his visionary leadership, the school district was… pic.twitter.com/WTSh2neTrJ

— Joel M. Petlin (@Joelmpetlin) March 19, 2026