Delaware County Review

State Senator Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) has voted with the majority of the Ohio Senate to confirm Stephen D. Dackin as the first director of the newly established Department of Education and Workforce. This confirmation comes as part of the significant reforms enacted by the Operating Budget passed in June, which turned the Department of Education into the Department of Education and Workforce.

The transformation of the department aims to bring about much-needed changes in the education system in Ohio. The reforms include placing the department under the authority of the Executive Branch of government, with increased oversight by the Ohio General Assembly.

Senator Brenner, who serves as the chairman of the Senate Education Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the legislative check on this appointment. He stated, "Empowering the Senate to confirm this appointment accomplished that. I look forward to working with Director Dackin as he charts a productive new course for education in Ohio."

Governor DeWine nominated Stephen D. Dackin for the position of director. Dackin brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a Member-at-Large on the Ohio State Board of Education. He also held the position of Superintendent of School and Community Partnerships at Columbus State Community College, where he played a pivotal role in establishing a workforce pipeline between K-12 school districts, higher education institutions, employers, and community stakeholders.

Dackin's career in education spans various roles in local school districts. He has worked as a teacher in Elida Local Schools and Upper Scioto Valley Local Schools, a principal at Elida High School and Reynoldsburg High School, and a superintendent at Reynoldsburg City Schools. Additionally, he has served as an administrator at Westerville City Schools and the Ohio Department of Education.

With his extensive background in education, Dackin is well-equipped to lead the Department of Education and Workforce. His appointment as director promises to bring about positive changes and improvements in Ohio's education system. The confirmation by Senator Brenner and the Ohio Senate demonstrates a commitment to ensuring quality education and workforce development in the state.

Click this link to access more information: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/andrew-o-brenner/news/brenner-votes-with-senate-to-confirm-department-of-education-and-workforce-director