Florida
Henry Mack Appointed as Florida’s New Education Commissioner Amid Local Praise
Henry Mack won approval as Florida’s next education commissioner Wednesday, having been recommended by Gov. Ron DeSantis and deemed an “outstanding choice” by someone particularly close to DeSantis’ potential successor. Erika Donalds, a school-choice advocate and wife of GOP gubernatorial…
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Key points
- Henry Mack appointed as Florida’s education commissioner with strong support from Governor Ron DeSantis.
- Education advocate Erika Donalds praised Mack’s selection, emphasizing the positive impact on Florida students.
- Mack’s experience includes roles in the Trump administration and the Florida Department of Education, indicating a focus on educational advancement.
NewsWK — Henry Mack has been appointed as Florida’s new education commissioner, receiving the endorsement of Governor Ron DeSantis and praise from education advocate Erika Donalds. This decision comes as the state seeks to enhance its educational leadership and policies.
Erika Donalds, who is closely associated with DeSantis and is the wife of GOP gubernatorial candidate U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, expressed her support for Mack, declaring him an “outstanding choice” for the position. She made this announcement via a social media post following Mack’s confirmation at a Board of Education meeting held in Orlando. She stated, “Florida students won today! Congratulations to Dr. [Henry Mack], our next Commissioner of Education… Thank you, [Gov. Ron DeSantis] and State Board of Education members for this outstanding choice.”
Mack’s background includes serving as the assistant secretary of labor under former President Donald Trump and working in various capacities within the Florida Department of Education. He previously held the position of chancellor, where he concentrated on college and career education. His experience is expected to play a crucial role in advancing Florida’s educational policies.
During his confirmation hearing, Mack expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It is an honor beyond words to be entrusted with stewarding Florida schools at this pivotal moment… It is going to be an amazing next few years together for the great state of Florida for the students that we serve.”
The position of education commissioner became available earlier this month after the departure of Anastasios Kamoutsas, who left to lead Polk State College. Mack is the fourth individual to take on this role under DeSantis, with two interim commissioners serving previously.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Jay Waagmeester originally published by Florida Phoenix. Read the original story.
