has named Lonny Rivera a temporary replacement for state superintendent , who retires in at the end of this month. The search, however, is only just beginning for a permanent replacement of what some call the most important agency in state government.
The department has been mired in scandal since a top official, David Hansen, was caught removing low-performing charter schools from the grades used to measure their sponsors. That's put a hold on $71 million in new federal funding for Ohio's charter schools.
State Board of Education member says the new chief must lead by example and generate respect. He also wants a person who can deal with the new federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
鈥淚 want someone who can establish a voice in Washington," said Collins. "Our voice in Washington. Is much smaller than it used to be. I tell you this new ESEA law, the actual regulations, can be influenced."
Senate Education Committee chair agrees.
鈥淕iven the fact the new federal laws have changed, there鈥檚 going to be a lot of thought, and changes are going to have to take place here at the state level," said Lehner. "So we鈥檙e going to need someone with a lot of vision, a lot of courage, because change around here is hard.鈥�
Lehner鈥檚 counterpart in the House, , is less concerned about national trends.
鈥淚鈥檇 like to see someone focused obviously on Ohio -- just making sure Ohio schools work the best,鈥� said Brenner.
Brenner does agree with Collins on one point: The new superintendent should make sure the trains run on time.
