News release - Commissioner's Teacher Cabinet members announced

Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet members announced

Twenty teachers from around the state selected to serve and help bridge gap between policy and practice

DENVER – The Colorado Department of Education today announced the members of the first ever Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet.  This group of 20 practicing teachers will meet with Education Commissioner Katy Anthes on a regular basis and provide a much-needed teacher perspective to the current issues facing our state and schools. Members will share their insights on the classroom impact of education policies, make recommendations for the effective implementation of policy and procedures and help to make decisions relatable to teachers.
 
“Teacher Cabinet members will brainstorm solutions, serve as a sounding board and provide valuable feedback to help us tackle some of the challenges facing Colorado’s educators,” Anthes said. “Hearing directly from educators will give us a better picture of the impact new laws have on teachers and students.”
 
More than 170 applications were submitted for approximately 15 cabinet positions. Five more positions were added because of the huge interest.  The Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet review panel that selected the finalists was composed of teachers representing all regions of Colorado, both charter and traditional schools, various grade levels, and ethnicities as well as rural, suburban, and urban schools. Candidates’ expertise, accomplishments and dedication to Colorado’s students were among the many factors the review panel considered to create a diverse and well-rounded cabinet.

Commissioner's Teacher Cabinet Members:

The Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet is expected to have its first meeting in August and will meet at least four times a year. The term for members will be two years with alternating two-year terms to ensure there are experienced members each year.

Teacher cabinet members will serve on a volunteer basis, although travel and substitute teacher costs will be reimbursed.

Learn more about the Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet.