Florida Education Commissioner Submits Resignation

Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson has submitted his resignation after a tumultuous year.

Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson will resign his position on August 31, the Department of Education announced this evening.

Robinson became Florida’s top education official about a year ago. He has faced growing criticism from school boards, teachers and parents about the state’s standardized testing regimen and school grading system.

Board of Education chairman Kathleen Shanahan said in a statement that Robinson’s decision was related to his family.

Shanahan praised Robinson’s efforts in pushing to toughen state testing standards and leading Florida’s efforts to implement a waiver from federal No Child Left Behind requirements.

“The board is extremely grateful for Gerard’s leadership this past year,” said State Board of Education Chair Kathleen Shanahan. “He has worked with the board as we have raised standards for our students and our schools. He is a leader who embodies and understands the importance of education reform.”