The state superintendent is head of the Indiana Department of Education.
Current Superintendent Glenda Ritz, a Democrat, was elected in 2012, an upset that removed incumbent Tony Bennett, a Republican, following his one term in office.
Ritz spoke at political rallies for several Democratic State House candidates before the midterm elections and repeatedly expressed concerns that her office would be changed to an appointed position rather than an elected one. Ritz said she believed this would be a political move on the part of Republicans in office.
President and CEO Kevin Brinegar said in the release, however, that the Indiana Chamber of Commerce has taken this stance for more than 20 years, through both Republican and Democratic governors.
“Our state’s governor is seen as the true leader on education policy, and our administrative structure should reflect that and allow for a superintendent of the governor’s choosing,” Brinegar said.
Tori Fater
