Ritz On Lawsuit, Potential Run For Governor

State Superintendent Glenda Ritz is suing 10 members of the State Board of Education, but she believes she can still move her policy ideas forward.

She spoke for an-hour-and-a-half Tuesday as part of the Conversations About Education Series at Central Library, answering questions from Chalkbeat Indiana Editor Scott Elliot and from the audience. The event was presented by the Indianapolis Public Library and WFYI.

Ritz says policy is developed in multiple ways and will continue to pursue her agenda through other avenues if the board doesn't back it.

"There are a variety of ways for change to take place," she said. "I am willing to try any of them, all of them, to make sure that we are headed on a good path for students.  It is really about getting the right information to educators and parents to be sure that students are actually leaving our schools prepared."

"There are many ways to do that and I don't consider the State Board of Education the only policy maker."

Ritz says her election alone resulted in tension with the board, but she adds that is to be expected.   She says the current lawsuit has ramifications not only with the Indiana State Board, but with boards throughout the country.

Yet, she insists, she has no animosity toward any board members.

"What I do want to have is a decorum and a respect level at the meetings that we get business done," Ritz said.  "I understand that the lawsuit puts a little different flavor on that, but it's an important question."

"I am totally committed to working it out. We are going to have strategic planning meetings. We are going to have a lot of time together.  I'm sure there will be some airing of views and points of view and I think that's healthy."

Ritz's name also has been floated around as a possible future gubernatorial candidate, and she isn't ruling out a run.

"I have learned a long time ago never say never to anything," she said.  "But, I will tell you that I am all about this job.  I am all about the State Superintendency, making sure we are putting in policy.  I am an educator."