HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)—After serving as Acting Education Commissioner for the past five months, Charlene Russell-Tucker has been nominated to take on the role permanently.
Governor Ned Lamont announced Thursday that he is nominating Russell-Tucker to serve as Connecticut's Commissioner of the State Department of Education, noting that her leadership during the interim period has been "so impressive."
The State Board of Education voted unanimously to recommend her appointment to the governor earlier in the day, state officials said.
Russell-Tucker has taken on several roles while working with the department for over 20 years, including her latest role of deputy commissioner.
Lamont requested that Russell-Tucker step up to serve as acting commissioner in March after the resignation of Miguel Cardona who left the position to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.
"I've heard nothing but praise about [Russell-Tucker's] leadership style and effectiveness," Lamont said in a statement. "I appreciate Charlene's dedication to the students and families of Connecticut, and I'm excited to have her continuing in this leadership capacity."
"This nomination," State Board of Education Chair Allan Taylor and Vice Chair Erin Benham said in a joint statement, "will allow us to sustain and grow our efforts to ensure all residents, regardless of race and ethnicity, are able to obtain the education they need to be productive members of society."
Russell-Tucker expressed her thanks to the governor and the State Board of Education for their confidence in her leadership.
"I am humbled to be given the opportunity to continue to lead the incredible team at the Connecticut State Department of Education as we join forces with educators and stakeholders to build a nation-leading education system that is resilient to the challenges we face and inclusive of all students and families," she said.
According to state officials, Russell-Tucker's nomination is being forwarded to the Connecticut General Assembly, but effective immediately, she will serve as commissioner-designate.