Joe Tinius is a life-long educator who has dedicated more than 35 years to the students of Bowling Green City Schools. He began his career in 1977 as a Special Education teacher at L. C. Curry Elementary School. In 1988, he became Principal of T. C. Cherry Elementary and in 1994 moved to the district office to become Director of Elementary and Secondary Programs and District Assessment Coordinator. In 1996, he was named the Director of Transportation, Buildings and Grounds, and in 1998, Assistant Superintendent for Special Programs and Physical Operations. Joe Tinius was named Superintendent of Bowling Green City Schools November 28, 2005.  Among many initiatives during his 10-year tenure as superintendent, Tinius led the district in the development of the BGISD goals and expectations which includes building relationships, engaging students, teaching 21st century skills and participating in personal and professional growth. 

He is a visionary leader and exemplifies the Purple Spirit that is unique to Bowling Green City Schools. Tinius believes schools should instill the value of life-long learning and prepare students for their future by building relationships, engaging learning, and teaching 21st century skills. 

When the idea was developed to launch a freshman academy at Bowling Green High, one name came to mind, Joseph Tinius. Mr. Tinius embodies the characteristics in which the LEAD Academy was built upon: Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, and Diversity, and exemplifies the qualities that we hope to pass on to our students. Mr. Tinius played a pivotal role in the development of the academy and continues to serve as a top adviser of the program. 

The LEAD Academy is honored to carry on the legacy of Mr. Tinius!