Connecticut’s New Education Commissioner Could Help Put State Back on Top

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton) released the following statement today re: announcement of Dr. Dianna R. Wentzell as Connecticut’s new Education Commissioner.

“The appointment of Dr. Dianna Wentzell as Connecticut’s new State Department of Education Commissoner puts the state in the great position of returning to a long held tradition: being first in Education nationally.

“As an educator in this state for more than 25 years, Wentzell most recently testified as the Interim Commissioner of Education before the legislature’s Education Committee. I was very impressed with her knowledge and her understanding of what it takes for students to achieve at their highest potential. She also had a strong grasp of the difficult road some of our bilingual students have been travelling.

“As an educator of social studies, directing programs for gifted students and as an Assistant Superintendent of schools early in her career, Dr. Wentzell has the depth of knowledge, experience and dedication required for one of the most important positions in our state . Before this latest appointment, she served as the Connecticut State Department of Education’s chief academic officer and clearly has set high academic standards for our educational system. It is clear that she supports whatever it takes to help our students succeed.

“I’m also very pleased with this appointment given the wide achievement gap that exists in many of our urban school systems. Wentzell’s experience as the Assistant Superintendent of schools in Hartford has provided her with the knowledge and understanding of the urban experience and the critical needs that many of our families struggle to obtain. This clearly is a wonderful advantage when trying to turnaround failing districts.

“I want to thank the Governor and State Board of Education members for their wise decision. Given the tumult over the last several years this will bring stability to the department and a vision for education excellence for all of our school children.”

Senator Toni Boucher is Ranking Member of the General Assembly’s Education Committee.