"The sense of urgency that Deborah A. Gist brought to her job as the state’s top education leader six months ago has only intensified since then, with the new commissioner and her staff at the state Department of Education rolling out a dizzying array of reforms. Most are intended to improve the quality of classroom teachers — one of the most critical factors in student success.
In early January, Gist will launch the state’s ambitious bid to capture millions of dollars in federal grants in the competitive Race to the Top grant program, which rewards dramatic changes.
“This state is really ready to pull its education system up and be the envy of the world,” Gist said. “I see it. I feel it. I hear it from people.” Since September, Gist has visited every district except New Shoreham, which she plans to visit Monday, and has met with hundreds of educators, students, and parents."
In early January, Gist will launch the state’s ambitious bid to capture millions of dollars in federal grants in the competitive Race to the Top grant program, which rewards dramatic changes.
“This state is really ready to pull its education system up and be the envy of the world,” Gist said. “I see it. I feel it. I hear it from people.” Since September, Gist has visited every district except New Shoreham, which she plans to visit Monday, and has met with hundreds of educators, students, and parents."