Looking For A Hero

Ohio needs a new superintendent of public instruction. One who can be student centered, charismatic and politically savvy all at the same time. This hero must also have a strong understanding of public education and strong administrative skills to manage 650+ people and an operating budget of $11.2 billion. Finally, this mortal who is only slightly less powerful than Zeus, should be an independent thinker capable of building consensus while effectively leading and building trust and confidence in Ohio’s public education system.

When this amazing person surfaces and begins the herculean task of leading Ohio’s educational efforts, will we see a difference at the grass roots level in the 600,000+ classrooms across Ohio? Will we see teachers and administrators rallying behind this new leader? Will we see a ripple effect throughout the educational community?

As Ohio’s Governor Ted Strickland visits CET and other public television stations around the state over the next few weeks to engage in community forums focusing on education, this topic will come up. Let’s see where the conversation goes.