Lamont Names Acting CT Education Commissioner

CONNECTICUT — Gov. Ned Lamont has named deputy education commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker to serve as acting commissioner of the Connecticut State Department of Education.

The appointment of Russell-Tucker follows the resignation Tuesday of Miguel Cardona, who was confirmed earlier this week by the U.S. Senate to serve as secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.

Russell-Tucker was recommended for the position by the Connecticut State Board of Education.

Prior to her appointment as deputy commissioner in November 2019, Russell-Tucker served as chief operating officer and division chief for the State Department of Education's Office of Student Supports and Organizational Effectiveness. She also served as associate commissioner of education and bureau chief at the agency, overseeing a programs and services that included student health, family and community engagement, nutrition and safety, magnet and charter schools, adult education, and special education.

Russell-Tucker was also past president of the Connecticut Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a member of the National Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She has over 15 years of teaching experience, having served as an adjunct faculty member at Albertus Magnus College School of New Dimensions. As deputy commissioner, she has been responsible for overseeing educational supports and wellness priorities.

Governor Lamont said: "An educator herself, Charlene has a lot of experience working with school districts across Connecticut, which is why I believe her appointment to this position will seamlessly aid the state’s education goals during this transition period. I appreciate her willingness to take on this leadership role."

Now that an acting commissioner has been named, Governor Lamont and the State Board of Education will work together to identify a permanent education commissioner.

Acting Commissioner Russell-Tucker said: "I will use this opportunity to continue to advance the work of the agency and our educational partners to ensure a seamless transition once a permanent commissioner is named."