For Immediate Release
Monday, May 21, 2007
Contact:Heidi Guarino 781-338-3106

Public Invited To Submit Comment To Inform Commissioner Search

Public Comment Welcome Through June 15

MALDEN - The national organization facilitating the state's search for the next education commissioner is soliciting comments from members of the public on the qualities, experience and expertise they believe are needed in the next leader of the Commonwealth's public schools. The National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE) has been hired to run the search, and will be conducting a series of focus groups this week with teachers, administrators, legislative leaders, business owners and other education stakeholders. Members of the public are invited to submit their suggestions in writing to NASBE by email at masearch@nasbe.org. Comments should be in response to the following questions:
  • What are the most critical education issues in Massachusetts?
  • What are the skills, characteristics, and competencies the next Commissioner will need to address these issues?
  • What advice would you give to the Board as they move through this process?
"We look forward to utilizing all of the resources available to the Board in the selection of a new commissioner," said Board of Education Chairman Christopher Anderson. "We anticipate an open process that will benefit from the expertise of teachers, administrators, higher education professionals, government and business leaders and the public as we make the critical decision on the next leader for the state's K-12 education system." Comments from the public will be accepted until June 15. NASBE will then present the public input to the Board, which will use it in the development of its selection criteria for the new commissioner. After more than 40 years in public education, including the past eight as commissioner, David P. Driscoll plans to retire on August 31. Deputy Commissioner Jeffrey Nellhaus will take over as Acting Commissioner on September 1 until a permanent replacement is named. The Board of Education, in consultation with Governor Patrick, is responsible for naming Driscoll's successor. NASBE will help in writing the job description, actively recruit leaders and non-traditional candidates both locally and nationwide, receive and process all applications, do reference checks, screen applicants, and schedule interviews with the Board.



Last Updated: May 21, 2007



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