Bush Nominates Simon For Deputy Secretary

Ed Week April 18, 2005
By Joetta L. Sack

A veteran educator and former state superintendent from Arkansas has been tapped for the second most powerful position at the U.S. Department of Education.

President Bush on April 15 nominated Raymond J. Simon to become the deputy secretary of education. Mr. Simon, 60, who currently serves as the assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education, would oversee most K-12 education programs if his nomination is confirmed by the Senate.
The former state schools superintendent in Arkansas has a reputation among education groups and advocates for being willing to listen to their views. He is a veteran educator, having begun his career as a high school mathematics teacher in 1966, and worked his way through various administrative jobs in districts in Arkansas.

“Ray is a public servant dedicated to ensuring all children have access to a quality education. He has served as an outstanding assistant secretary, and I look forward to working with him in his new role as deputy secretary,” Ms. Spellings said in a statement regarding the nomination. “Ray will have a critical role on my team as we continue to work closely with states and meet the goals of No Child Left Behind.”

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