Lamont Nominates Charlene Russell-Tucker As CT Education Czar

CONNECTICUT – Gov. Ned Lamont today announced that he is nominating Charlene Russell-Tucker to serve as commissioner of the Connecticut State Department of Education.

Since March, Russell-Tucker has been serving as the agency's acting commissioner at the request due to the resignation of Miguel Cardona, who left his position as commissioner after being appointed by President Joe Biden to serve as secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.

Russell-Tucker has been serving at the CSDE for more than 20 years in several roles, including most recently as deputy commissioner, in which she has been responsible for overseeing educational supports and wellness priorities.

Lamont said Russell-Tucker's leadership during this interim period has been so impressive that he asked her to permanently fill the position.

"Our administration has set strong goals when it comes to improving outcomes for our next generation so they are prepared to fill jobs that lead them through successful careers," Lamont said. "I appreciate Charlene’s dedication to the students and families of Connecticut, and I’m excited to have her continuing in this leadership capacity."

The nomination follows a unanimous vote earlier in the day by the State Board of Education recommending her appointment to the governor under a process required by state statute.

Prior to serving as deputy commissioner, Russell-Tucker was chief operating officer and division chief for the agency’s Office of Student Supports and Organizational Effectiveness. She also served as associate commissioner of education and bureau chief, overseeing a portfolio of programs and services that included student health, family and community engagement, nutrition and safety, magnet and charter schools, adult education, and special education.

“I am humbled to be given the opportunity to continue to lead the incredible team at the Connecticut State Department of Education as we join forces with educators and stakeholders to build a nation-leading education system that is resilient to the challenges we face and inclusive of all our students and families,” Russell-Tucker said.

Lamont made the announcement at a bill signing for new legislation incentivizing teachers to come to Connecticut through a subsidized rate on their student loans.

Russell-Tucker will serve as commissioner-designate effective immediately. Her nomination is being forwarded to the Connecticut General Assembly for its advice and consent.