PA Secretary Rivera Named to CCSSO Board of Directors

WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) today announced that Sec. Pedro A. Rivera has been named to the Board of Directors of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), a nonpartisan nonprofit that provides assistance to state departments of education across the country.

"Over the past two years, CCSSO has been a valuable partner to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, including playing an instrumental role in helping the Department facilitate a thoughtful ESSA [Every Student Succeeds Act] Stakeholder Engagement process that resulted in accolades from many of our stakeholders," Rivera said. "I look forward to serving in support of my colleagues in other states as they undertake the important mission of preparing students for future success."

In its mission to support public education, CCSSO provides leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance on major educational issues to stakeholders. Using "state-driven leverage points that they are uniquely positioned to address," the organization advocates on behalf of public education and helps students across the country leave school college and career ready.

"The Pennsylvania Department of Education has prioritized providing students with access to multiple pathways of success, and the tools the CCSSO offers have helped us more effectively achieve that mission," Rivera added.

The Board of Directors, consisting of nine members, leads CCSSO in its efforts, manages its business affairs, and serves as the governing board of the Council. On the board, Sec. Rivera joins President Melody Schopp of South Dakota, President-Elect: Carey Wright, Mississippi, Past President: Tony Evers, Wisconsin, board member Jillian Balow of Wyoming, board member Brenda Cassellius of Minnesota, board member Stephen Pruitt of Kentucky,  board member Hanna Skandera of New Mexico, and board member Tony Smith of Illinois.

"Secretary Rivera recognizes the realities of our public school systems, and as the leader of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, he continues to exemplify his commitment to equity for all kids. We are honored to have him join our Board of Directors," said Chris Minnich, executive director of CCSSO.

MEDIA CONTACT: Nicole Reigelman, 717-783-9802                                

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SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Education