 May 10, 2003
"Roger Sampson has a solid reputation as an educator and a long track record of successes," said Governor Murkowski. "He's a leader, and he's the person we need to take our education system to higher levels of performance. That's good news for our school children and their parents, and that's good news for the Murkowski Administration. I welcome Roger as the newest member of my cabinet." Dr. Fred Pomeroy, former superintendent of the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District and a former Alaska Superintendent of the Year, was the other finalist for commissioner. Sampson was superintendent of Chugach School District from 1994 to 2000; a school principal from 1984 to 1994 for Kenai Peninsula Borough School District; and from 1979 to 1984, a principal, special education director and federal programs director for Annette Island School District in Metlakatla. He earned a masters degree in education administration in 1976. He was named National Rural Superintendent of the Year in 1997, Alaska Principal of the Year in 1987, and was appointed to a key committee that began Alaska's 12-year movement to standards based education under the administration of Governor Walter Hickel. Said Board Chair Richard Mauer: "Roger Sampson is an impressive educator with strong credentials. During the state board's background check of Roger, we learned of the respect he commands from his peers, and the teachers, students, parents and communities he has worked with. He demonstrates the highest level of enthusiasm for children and schools, and possesses the energy to assist the state board to improve our schools so that one day every child in Alaska gets a solid education and has a bright future." The state board is authorized
by statute to appoint a commissioner, who serves at the pleasure
of the board. Also by statute, the governor must approve the
board's appointment. The education commissioner's appointment
does not require legislative confirmation.
Source of News Release:
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