(FRANKFORT, Ky.) – Jon E. Draud, Kentucky’s fourth commissioner of education, today announced that he would resign the position effective in early February.
“I have informed Joe Brothers, chair of the state Board of Education, that I am resigning my position as Commissioner of Education for the state of Kentucky,” Draud said. “While I feel that I have provided outstanding leadership during my illness, it has caused me to rethink my priorities.”
“Dr. Draud has distinguished himself as an educator and a tireless advocate for education over the past five decades,” said Kentucky Board of Education Chair Joe Brothers. “His service in various leadership roles, including classroom teacher, principal, superintendent, legislator and commissioner, reflect an untiring commitment to public education in Kentucky. His decision to retire is a personal one, and the entire board supports him in that decision.
“We wish him well as he enjoys his family and improving health in the coming years. We shouldn’t be surprised in the future to find that Jon is out there somewhere, advocating for public education in his retirement years.”
Draud was selected as commissioner in November 2007, after serving as a state legislator representing Kentucky’s 63rd District. He was vice-chair of the House Education Committee. Draud also served as director of School/University Partnerships at Northern Kentucky University.
Draud was an associate professor at NKU; superintendent of the Ludlow Independent school district; assistant superintendent of Lockland (Ohio) Public Schools; member of the Kenton County Board of Education; and a school principal and teacher.
In September, Draud suffered a mild stroke that affected his ability to walk. He is currently engaging in physical therapy to strengthen his leg muscles and expects to make a full recovery.
Brothers said that the board will likely schedule a special meeting in January to discuss plans for the future, including consideration of selection of an interim commissioner and the search process to fill the position for the long term.
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