The education reform
movement was saddened to learn Tuesday that Indiana State Superintendent of
Public Education Tony Bennett lost his seat to challenger Glenda Ritz.
Bennett has gained
widespread praise for his education reforms since being elected, which
include revamping teacher evaluations, leading state take-overs of struggling
public schools, and expanding educational options. In that last category, Bennett has been
hailed for expanding charter schools and leading efforts to create a statewide voucher
program. That voucher program, the
Choice Scholarship Program, enrolled nearly 4,000 students in the program’s
first year and more than 9,000 students in the program’s second year.
Dr. Bennett has dedicated
his life to improving the lives of children. Before becoming superintendent, he spent his career working as a
teacher, coach, and assistant superintendent. He
holds a bachelor's and a master's degree from Indiana University Southeast and
received his Ed.D. and Superintendent's License from Spalding University.
Earlier this year, the Alliance for
School Choice awarded
Bennett its John T. Walton Champions for School Choice Award, which is
given to a prominent leader in the school choice movement for groundbreaking
and dedicated work for America’s children.
The election loss is a sad
moment for Indiana’s children, but thanks to a strong coalition of advocates
and elected officials, we’re certain that educational options will continue to thrive in the
Hoosier State. And no matter what
Bennett does next, we know he'll be working to improve the lives of children.
- American Federation for Children | Alliance for School Choice, MSG
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