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Politics and Government
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Politics and Government
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New education commissioner disavows politics

New Hampshire's New Education Commissioner Vows to Keep Politics Out of Schools

In a move that has sparked both optimism and skepticism across New Hampshire's educational landscape, the state's newly appointed Education Commissioner, Frank Edelblut, has publicly disavowed any intention of injecting politics into the realm of public education. Edelblut, a businessman and former state representative with no formal background in education, was nominated by Governor Chris Sununu and confirmed by the Executive Council in a narrow 3-2 vote along party lines. His appointment comes at a time when debates over education policy in the Granite State are increasingly polarized, touching on issues like school funding, curriculum standards, and the role of parental rights in classrooms.

Edelblut, speaking at a recent press conference in Concord, emphasized his commitment to a non-partisan approach. "Education is not about politics; it's about empowering our students, supporting our teachers, and ensuring every child has access to a world-class education," he stated emphatically. This declaration appears to be a direct response to critics who have questioned his qualifications and feared that his conservative leanings might influence policy decisions. Edelblut, who ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2016 as a Republican, has a history of advocating for school choice and voucher programs, positions that have drawn ire from public education advocates who argue such measures could undermine traditional public schools.

The commissioner's background is unconventional for the role. A successful entrepreneur who founded and led a software company before entering politics, Edelblut homeschooled his seven children, an experience he cites as giving him unique insights into alternative education models. During his confirmation hearings, he faced pointed questions from Democratic councilors about his lack of experience in public education administration. Councilor Andru Volinsky, a Democrat, expressed concerns that Edelblut's views on issues like evolution and climate change—stemming from his evangelical Christian beliefs—might lead to biased oversight of science curricula. Edelblut countered by assuring the council that he would adhere strictly to state standards and not impose personal beliefs on educational policy.

Governor Sununu, a staunch supporter of Edelblut, praised the appointment as a fresh perspective needed to shake up a system he describes as stagnant. "Frank brings innovative thinking and a results-oriented mindset to the Department of Education," Sununu said in a statement following the confirmation. The governor has made education reform a cornerstone of his administration, pushing for expanded charter schools, competency-based learning, and greater local control over education decisions. Edelblut aligns with this vision, having previously sponsored legislation to promote school choice and reduce regulatory burdens on homeschooling families.

However, not everyone is convinced by Edelblut's pledge to keep politics at bay. Megan Tuttle, president of the National Education Association-New Hampshire, voiced reservations in an interview, stating, "While we appreciate the commissioner's words, actions will speak louder. We need a leader who prioritizes public education funding and teacher support, not one whose past suggests a preference for privatization." Tuttle pointed to Edelblut's tenure in the state House, where he voted against bills to increase school funding and supported measures to limit union influence in education. Advocacy groups like the American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire have also raised alarms, warning that Edelblut's appointment could exacerbate divisions over topics such as transgender student rights and critical race theory in curricula, issues that have become flashpoints in national education debates.

Edelblut's disavowal of politics is particularly noteworthy given the broader context of education in New Hampshire. The state has long prided itself on its local control model, where towns and cities have significant autonomy over school budgets and policies. Yet, recent years have seen escalating tensions, including lawsuits over funding inequities and debates over the implementation of the Common Core standards. Edelblut has outlined his priorities, which include improving student outcomes through data-driven decisions, enhancing vocational training programs, and fostering partnerships between schools and businesses to prepare students for the workforce. "My goal is to focus on what works, regardless of ideology," he said, citing successful models from states like Massachusetts and Florida as inspirations.

One area where Edelblut's influence could be immediately felt is in the ongoing revision of the state's minimum standards for school approval. Critics worry that under his leadership, these standards might be relaxed to accommodate more alternative education options, potentially at the expense of accountability. Supporters, however, argue that such flexibility is essential in a state with diverse rural and urban needs. Edelblut has also expressed enthusiasm for expanding access to online learning, a nod to lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many New Hampshire schools to adapt to remote education.

The commissioner's stance on politics echoes a growing national conversation about the politicization of education. In states like Florida and Texas, governors have pushed legislation restricting discussions on race, gender, and history, leading to widespread teacher protests and legal challenges. Edelblut has distanced himself from such extremes, insisting that New Hampshire's approach will remain collaborative. "I want to work with educators, parents, and lawmakers from all sides to build consensus," he told reporters. This olive branch has been met with cautious optimism from some moderates, including Republican councilors who voted for his confirmation.

Looking ahead, Edelblut's tenure will be closely watched as New Hampshire grapples with teacher shortages, rising property taxes tied to school funding, and the integration of technology in classrooms. The state ranks high in national education metrics, with strong performance in reading and math, but disparities persist between affluent and low-income districts. Edelblut has pledged to address these inequities by advocating for targeted investments rather than broad tax increases, a position that aligns with Sununu's fiscal conservatism.

In his first official address to the State Board of Education, Edelblut elaborated on his philosophy, drawing from his business experience. "Just as in the private sector, education must be agile, innovative, and focused on outcomes," he said. He highlighted the importance of parental involvement, suggesting initiatives to increase transparency in school operations and curriculum choices. This emphasis on parents' rights has resonated with conservative groups like the New Hampshire chapter of Moms for Liberty, who see Edelblut as an ally in pushing back against what they perceive as overreach by school boards.

Despite the controversies, there are signs that Edelblut is willing to build bridges. He has scheduled meetings with union leaders and plans to visit schools across the state to gather input from teachers and administrators. "I'm here to listen and learn," he affirmed, acknowledging the steep learning curve ahead. Whether this approach will quell doubts remains to be seen, but it represents a deliberate effort to transcend partisan divides.

As New Hampshire's education system evolves under Edelblut's leadership, the stakes are high. With enrollment declining in some areas due to demographic shifts and competition from private options, the commissioner faces the challenge of maintaining public education's vitality. His disavowal of politics could prove to be a defining theme, potentially setting a model for other states navigating similar tensions. For now, educators, parents, and policymakers are watching closely, hopeful that words will translate into actions that benefit all students.

Edelblut's appointment also underscores broader shifts in how states select education leaders. Traditionally, commissioners have come from within the education field—superintendents, principals, or professors. Edelblut's outsider status mirrors appointments in other Republican-led states, where business leaders are tapped to bring efficiency and innovation. Proponents argue this injects fresh ideas; detractors fear it devalues professional expertise.

In the coming months, key tests for Edelblut will include the state budget process, where education funding will be a hot-button issue, and responses to federal mandates on issues like standardized testing. If he can navigate these without alienating key stakeholders, his tenure might indeed prove transformative. Conversely, if partisan undercurrents emerge, it could deepen divisions in a state known for its independent streak.

Ultimately, Edelblut's pledge to keep politics out of education is more than rhetoric—it's a promise that will be scrutinized against the backdrop of real-world decisions. As New Hampshire students return to classrooms, the hope is that leadership focuses on their needs above all else, fostering an environment where learning thrives free from ideological battles. (Word count: 1,056)

Read the Full Eagle-Tribune Article at:
[ https://www.eagletribune.com/news/new_hampshire/new-education-commissioner-disavows-politics/article_37da8f2d-c8d7-44b3-bb08-3a0838e78486.html ]