Gov. Josh Shapiro has chosen Carrie Rowe to lead Pennsylvania’s Department of Education, filling a key position in his administration as budget talks get underway. The announcement, made on the first day of budget hearings, signals Shapiro’s continued focus on education policy in the state.
A Veteran Educator Takes the Helm
Rowe, who currently serves as the deputy secretary of elementary and secondary education, brings more than two decades of experience in public education to the role. She has worked as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and administrator, making her a well-rounded pick for the job.
Her appointment follows the resignation of Khalid Mumin, who stepped down in December after nearly two years in the role. Angela Fitterer, the department’s executive deputy secretary, has been serving as interim secretary since Mumin’s departure.
Rowe expressed enthusiasm about her new role, stating, “I look forward to working with Gov. Shapiro, the General Assembly, and partners in the field to ensure that all Pennsylvania learners have access to a world-class education system and all of the possibilities it brings.”
The Challenges Ahead
Pennsylvania’s education system faces several pressing issues. School funding remains a contentious topic, particularly in light of recent budget increases for K-12 education. Rowe will need to navigate these discussions while ensuring that resources are distributed equitably across districts.
Another challenge is teacher recruitment and retention. Pennsylvania, like many states, has struggled to attract and keep educators in the profession. The governor’s office highlighted Rowe’s experience in addressing these concerns, citing her efforts to provide “strategic guidance on structured literacy, workforce readiness, teacher recruitment and retention, and student mental health.”
Key Education Priorities Under Shapiro
Shapiro’s administration has made education a priority since taking office. His policies have focused on expanding funding, improving student outcomes, and increasing access to essential services. Among his key initiatives:
- Free breakfast for public school students: This program, introduced in the state budget, aims to combat food insecurity among students.
- Increased investment in public schools: Over the past two budgets, Shapiro has pushed for greater financial support for K-12 education.
- Support for dual-credit programs: These initiatives allow high school students to earn college credits, helping them get a head start on their higher education.
Rowe is expected to play a significant role in shaping these policies as she steps into her new position.
A Strong Endorsement from Educators
The Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), the state’s largest teachers’ union, praised Shapiro’s choice. Chris Lilienthal, PSEA’s assistant director of communications, called Rowe a “terrific choice,” emphasizing her experience at various levels of education.
“She has been a strong advocate for students and for educators,” Lilienthal said. “There is no doubt that her talent and experience will make her an excellent secretary.”
Support from the education community could prove crucial as Rowe prepares for the challenges ahead. Her background as a former superintendent in the Beaver Area School District shows a track record of working on equity issues, including “equitable resource allocation and removing institutional barriers to opportunity,” according to the governor’s office.
What’s Next?
Rowe’s nomination must be confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate before she officially takes office. While she is widely seen as a strong candidate, confirmation hearings could bring additional scrutiny to her record and plans for the department.
If confirmed, she will step into the role at a critical time for education policy in Pennsylvania. With budget negotiations underway and school funding at the forefront of legislative debates, her leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of education in the state.
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