Education experts concluded today that Dennis Walcott is well qualified to become the next city schools chancellor — in clear contrast to predecessor Cathie Black.
A ten-member state advisory panel unanimously recommended that Education Commissioner David Steiner grant Walcott the waiver to become the new chancellor following a meeting this afternoon. He is expected to do so within days.
“It was clear to the entire panel that Mr. Walcott is, in fact, exceptionally qualified for the position,” said screening panel chair Marilyn Terranova.
Last fall, a majority of panelists advising Steiner urged him to reject Mayor Bloomberg’s selection of Black as chancellor because of her lack of educational qualifications. Steiner ultimately signed off on Black’s selection — but only after the city created a special deputy to oversee academics.
Walcott, by comparison, has decades of involvement in overseeing youth and educational services, including a stint as a kindergarten teacher.
“We are grateful for the panel’s time and consideration, and look forward to Commissioner Steiner’s decision,” said Department of Education spokeswoman Natalie Ravitz.
The waiver is required because Walcott does not have a supervisory license.