Colorado
Colorado’s state schools chief announced plans last week to step down after nearly a decade in the top K-12 job.
Commissioner of Education William J. Moloney, who is expected to leave in June, said political shifts helped prod his move, although he said he made his decision well before the November elections.
“Over a year ago, it was evident to me that Colorado was approaching a new era in general and in particular with regard to education reform,” he said in a Feb. 8 statement. “January 2007 would see the inauguration of a new governor. Election results and term limits would mean a new look in the General Assembly,” as well as changes at the state board of education.
In Colorado, the state board appoints the commissioner. Mr. Moloney first served with Democratic Gov. Roy Romer, and then with Republican Gov. Bill Owens, who left office last month. He said he is likely to remain involved in the issue of education.
