Indiana Chamber Will Advocate For Appointed State Superintendent

Indiana Chamber of Commerce leaders say one of their top legislative priorities this year is pushing to make the State Superintendent position an appointed one, beginning in 2016. The suggestion is fueled by reports of dysfunction between the current superintendent, Glenda Ritz, and members of the board she chairs.

Currently, the state superintendent is an elected official while the governor appoints all other state board of education members. Because of these political differences, infighting has become somewhat of a norm at state board meetings, with issues of power and responsibility making the agenda in addition to policy matters.

Indiana Chamber president Kevin Brinegar says through his tenure, the superintendent and the governor have almost never been on the same page with respect to major issues. That’s why he says he believes the head of the Department of Education should be appointed, similar to every other state agency.

"We need consistency and one agenda for education that voters can assess and determine whether they like it or they don't like it in the next election," Brinegar said.

Indiana’s Constitution requires there be a State Superintendent, but leaves the method of selection up to legislators. Indiana is currently one of 13 states with an elected superintendent.