DENVER—Colorado’s new education commissioner says he will continue to focus on state initiatives to boost student achievement, reduce dropout rates and develop effective teachers.
Robert Hammond was unanimously appointed by the State Board of Education on Wednesday. Hammond had been filling in as commissioner since December after Commissioner Dwight Jones left to head the Las Vegas school system. Hammond was announced as the sole finalist for the job last week over Aurora Public Schools Superintendent John Barry.
Hammond says he wants to emphasize the state’s “educational reform agenda” and focus on accountability, educator effectiveness, standards and support.
He says he believes the agenda will minimize achievement gaps associated with race and income and better prepare students for college and careers.
