State Superintendent Brad C. Smith Resigns Brad C. Smith tendered his resignation as state superintendent of public instruction to members of the Utah State Board of Education today.
Smith, who was named superintendent in November 2014 after serving as Ogden School District’s superintendent for three years, focused during his tenure on improving educational outcomes for each student, working to close performance gaps between subgroups, and providing means to measure results.
State Board of Education Chair David L. Crandall said Smith should be credited with bringing together an effective and dedicated administrative team at the Utah State Office of Education.
“He assembled a great team, and we are confident in their abilities to continue working to improve student outcomes while working cooperatively with multiple community partners,” Crandall said.
Smith also played a leading role in gathering diverse educational audiences to provide insight while building the State Board’s strategic plan and was instrumental in implementing the School Turnaround and Leadership Development Act, aimed at helping Utah’s struggling schools.
“Brad Smith is a true education visionary whose focus on evidence-based reforms has moved the needle in ensuring that all students are college- and career-ready for the 21st century,” said First Vice Chair David L. Thomas.
“I have always enjoyed talking with Brad about his vision for public education of a greater focus on the diverse needs of individual students. He sees each student as a growing scholar,” said Second Vice Chair Jennifer Johnson.
Acting State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sydnee Dickson will continue in that role. The Board will discuss future plans during a meeting this Thursday at the Utah State Office of Education.
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16 February 2016
David Crandall Chair Utah State Board of Education Dear Mr. Crandall: When I was appointed as state superintendent of public instruction fifteen months ago, I was often asked how long I intended to serve. I would generally answer that I would serve as long as I felt I was making a positive contribution to education in Utah. After meeting and conversing with you and other members of board leadership, I have regretably come to the conclusion that I am no longer able to make a positive contribution as state superintendent. Accordingly, I hereby tender my resignation as state superintendent, effective as we shall mutually agree. I believe that improving educational outcomes for students remains the single most important public issue in Utah. Insuring a high-quality education for every student, closing performance gaps between subgroups of students, and providing means to systematically measure the efficacy of our education system are issues of the highest importance to children and our state. I hope to continue to make a contribution to the achievement of these ends. I have great respect for the Utah Board of Education. To a person, it is filled with wellintentioned, motivated people, striving to make a positive contribution to education. The reform efforts of the Board–to education generally and the state office in particular–are issues that elected boards often choose to ignore; this Board has not done so. My admiration for the Board’s focus is high. I am proud that I leave this office in a stronger position than I found it. I have been surrounded by a talented, dedicated team of senior leaders. Together we have repaired a fractured relationship with lawmakers and started the hard, earnest work that change will require. The people who have been willing to work with me are the very best and I thank them for their dedication and patience. Thank you for the chance to serve. Respectfully,
Brad C. Smith
