Governor Sonny Perdue today announced that he would appoint Brad Bryant as State School Superintendent. Bryant will take office July 1, to fill the term of Superintendent Kathy Cox who resigned to head an education think tank in Washington, D.C.. Bryant will also run for election in November as an independent. “Brad has a wealth of experience as a parent, local school board member and State School Board member,” said Governor Perdue. “He has done the big picture work and, on the other end of the spectrum, he understands what must take place in individual schools across the state to help students be successful. He understands the blocking and tackling that has to happen to increase learning.” “It’s an honor to be asked to serve as State School Superintendent,” said Bryant. “As a parent who had children in public schools and whose wife continues to work in one, I know the challenges we face and how important a quality education is to our state’s future.” Bryant has resigned as the 4th District representative on the State Board of Education, where he has served since 2003. He is also the past President of the National Association of State Boards of Education. Bryant also worked as a Special Liason to the Clayton County and Warren County school systems to help them regain their accreditation. Bryant served on the DeKalb County Board of Education for twelve years, including seven years as its Chair. “Brad Bryant is an excellent choice for State Superintendent. He is intelligent, experienced and passionate about ensuring success for all the students of Georgia,” said Superintendent Cox. “I have enjoyed working with Brad on the State Board Education the last seven years. I know that Brad is a supporter of the reforms we have begun in Georgia and will continue the hard work we have started.” “Brad will make an outstanding State School Superintendent,” said Gwinnett County Public Schools Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks. “Having served on local and state boards of education he knows what school districts need for our students to excel.” “Brad Bryant certainly has the experience and leadership skills to perform the duties of the state school superintendent in an outstanding manner,” said Steve Smith, Lowndes County Superintendent and president of the Georgia School Superintendents Association. “He commands the respect of board members, superintendents, teachers and his constituents.”
