The Kansas Education Commissioner announces his retirement.

 

Commissioner Randy Watson made the announcement yesterday (Wednesday) morning to the State Board of Education at the close of their two-day meeting. Watson, a Coffeyville native, has served as State Education commissioner since 2014 when he was appointed to replace Diane DeBacker. During his tenure, Watson pushed for Kansas students to learn workplace skills in addition to traditional academics.

 

His term as commissioner was not without controversy, as Watson was suspended without pay for 30 days in 2022 after making a comment about Native Americans during a virtual conference that some characterized as insensitive.

 

The role of the Kansas Education Commissioner is to serve as chief administrator of the State Board of Education.

 

Watson told the Board that he would remain in his position until a replacement is found.