Bensalem Schools Superintendent Samuel Lee resigned after getting a new four-year contract last year. He gave no reason for leaving.
Mar 12, 2026 12:37 pm EDT
BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — Schools Superintendent Samuel Lee has stepped down from his position one year after getting a new four-year contract.
Lee — one of the longest-serving superintendents in Bucks County and Pennsylvania — was given the extension by the then Republican-controlled school board.
No reason was given by Lee for his departure.
Lee’s resignation comes at a time when the school district is facing a “severe financial crisis” of a $12 million deficit with an Act 1 tax increase, and $16 million without a tax hike for the 2026-2027 school budget.
Lee had sent an email earlier this year to the Bensalem school community stating that the district is facing “a significant budget shortfall” driven largely by rising special education costs and charter school funding obligations, expenses that are mandated and largely outside of our local control.
After reports that the school district has a “severe financial situation,” school directors explained what that crisis is and what impact it might have on the next school budget.
Lee’s tenure began in July 2015 in an education career that has spanned four decades. The salary and terms of the contract extension were not disclosed by the school district.
In his resignation letter to the school community, Lee expressed gratitude for being able to serve the school community for over a decade.
“Serving as Superintendent of Bensalem Township School District has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life,” Lee said in a statement from the school district. “As I prepare to step away from this role, I want to express my deep gratitude to our students, families, staff, and community members who make this district such a special place.”
Lee said that over the years, he had “the privilege of witnessing remarkable achievements” across schools in the district.
“From academic accomplishments and artistic excellence to athletic milestones and innovative programs, our students continue to demonstrate what is possible when dedication, talent, and opportunity come together,” Lee said. “Watching our young people grow, succeed, and prepare for their futures has been the most rewarding part of this journey.”
Lee said that during his tenure the school board, staff, and educators expanded programs, enhanced school learning
environments, and continued to prioritize the success and well-being of every child who walked through school doors each day.
“Bensalem is a community that deeply values its schools,” Lee said. The support from families, community partners, and local organizations has played an essential role in helping our students thrive. Together, we have built a district culture that celebrates diversity, encourages innovation, and believes in the potential of every student. I know the district will continue to grow and succeed because of the incredible people who make up this community.”