Tennessee’s new Education Commissioner is officially on the job.Lizzette Gonzalez Reynolds was sworn in on July 1. She replaces former Commissioner Penny Schwinn who’s headed the Department of Education for the last four and a half years.“I’m so excited to be here, and I’m so excited to work with each and every one of you to continue the work you all have been doing over the past few years. Tennessee is one of those states that have always cared about education and has prioritized education as number one,” said Commissioner Reynolds.Governor Bill Lee appointed Reynolds in May to lead the department following Schwinn’s announcement that she would would be stepping down in June. Deputy Commissioner of Operations Sam Pearcy has served as Interim Superintendent ever since.Commissioner Reynolds previously served as the Vice President of Policy for ExcelinEd. She also served as Deputy Legislative Director for then-Governor George W. Bush, Special Assistant in the Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs for U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige, Regional Representative for U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings, and Chief Deputy Commissioner at the Texas Education Agency.Governor Bill Lee said he chose Reynolds for the important position due to her career reflecting a deep commitment to high quality education for all students, including work in school choice, assessment and accountability, college and career pathways, and education policy.“I am excited and humbled by having the opportunity to serve Tennessee’s families to ensure they get the best possible education for their children. I look forward to meeting with educators, families, elected officials, and stakeholders throughout the state and continuing the great work already happening on behalf of kids in Tennessee,” said Commissioner Reynolds.¶
