Louisiana Chief Draws Heat on Leadership, Policy

Louisiana schools chief Paul G. Pastorek is no stranger to controversy, but things seemed to reach the boiling point this summer for two prominent education groups.

First, in late July, the Louisiana Association of Educators said he should be replaced, citing, among other things, what the National Education Association affiliate called his “failed leadership” and his “unwillingness to work with educators, legislators, and locally elected board leaders to bring about meaningful education reform.”

Next, the Louisiana School Boards Association in early August declined the state superintendent’s invitation for its officers and staff members to meet...