Kentucky education leaders discussed their hopes for the next Education Commissioner at the Kentucky Department of Education’s Superintendents Webcast this week. The group also covered topics including multiple new grants, student scholarship opportunities, preparations to announce the 2024 teacher of the year, and bus safety.
The current Education Commissioner, Jason Glass, announced on July 31 he would be stepping down from his position effective September 29. Superintendents were asked what qualities the board of education will look for in a candidate and what they hope the new commissioner will prioritize.
Superintendents responded that the board should look for someone who is student-centered, a good communicator and someone who has prior superintendent experience. School leaders said they hope the new commissioner will focus on increasing funding for schools, pay raises for certified and classified employees and giving students more opportunities. Another hope is that whoever takes the helm will develop strong connections among superintendents and in Frankfort.
At the end of the meeting Commissioner Glass informed superintendents this would be his last webcast with them.
“I just wanted to say what an honor it has been to serve as your commissioner, to get to come back and do this work in my home state has been an incredible honor, and I have loved every minute of it. Even the really hard times, I have loved every minute of it,” said Glass.
Commissioner Glass also said his new position will be the Associate Vice President of Teaching and Learning at Western Michigan University.
“I’m excited about that role, haven’t had a chance to work in higher education in my life, so this is really a next step for me that I’m really excited about,” said Glass.
More information on the search for a new commissioner can be found on the 2023-2024 Commissioner Search webpage.