Thursday, July 19, 2007

Search for education commissioner is trying for state board

This from Raviya Ismail of the Herald-Leader:

The Kentucky State Board of Education is working to remain unified and accelerate the process of finding a new commissioner after its top choice pulled out of the position a week ago.

But several members acknowledged tension within the board since controversial Illinois educator Barbara Erwin resigned the post last Friday, citing news media scrutiny of her performance at other districts she’s led.

“It’s been a difficult time for all the board; it’s been a trying time,” said board member David Rhodes. “But I think we’re all solid individuals and everyone’s wanting to do what’s best for public education in Kentucky.”

...“We really have not progressed that far,” [Doug] Hubbard said. “All we’ve really done is accept Dr. Erwin’s letter of resignation.”

...At the Aug. 8-9 meeting, the board will elect new officers. Some members indicated there may be a movement to name a new chairman to replace [Keith] Travis, who has held the post since 2004...

“There may be those among us who believe that we need to make a fresh start, and those may vote for someone other than Keith,” Hubbard said.

Travis said it is a difficult time to be board chairman, but he will remain in the position if elected. “Whether I’m in a leadership role on the board doesn’t matter,” Travis said. “I’m not planning a departure, but what you hope to do is that you left the facility better that you found it, you made a contribution and somebody is ready to take over.”

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