Salem schools superintendent Stephen Zrike will be Massachusetts’ next education secretary, taking on the role in March.
Massachusetts’ Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler is stepping down Friday, according to the Healey administration. He will be the next president and CEO of the Needham nonprofit Walker Therapeutic & Educational Programs. The organization runs special education programming and a 7-12 grade school in Watertown, as well as residential services.
Tutwiler was one of Gov. Maura Healey’s first appointees when she was elected to office.
Tutwiler thanked Gov. Maura Healey and Lieutenant Gov. Kim Driscoll in a press release.
“As I prepare to step into a new role with an organization dedicated to serving children with complex needs, my heart is full,” Tutwiler wrote. “This moment brings both excitement for what’s ahead and profound gratitude for the years I was honored to serve side by side with students, educators, families and communities to strengthen the educational landscape of the Commonwealth.”
Zrike joined Salem schools six years ago. He previously oversaw the state receivership of Holyoke schools, served as the schools superintendent in Wakefield and worked as a principal in several Boston public schools.
Zrike shared the news with Salem parents in an email obtained by GBH News.
“While I am deeply honored by the opportunity to serve students across the state in this new role, it is incredibly difficult to say goodbye to a community that has been my home — a community where, together, we have accomplished so much over the past six years,” Zrike said.
Jessica Tang, the president of the teachers union American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, praised Tutwiler and said her organization is looking forward to working with Zrike.
“We appreciate that Governor Healey is focused on filling this important position with leaders who have worked in our public schools and have a deep understanding of the public education system in Massachusetts,” Tang wrote in a press release. “Zrike has earned a strong reputation as a professional educator of the highest caliber who stays laser focused on the needs of students and families, while also respecting dedicated educators in the classroom.”
Before Zrike assumes the role next month, Massachusetts’ Department of Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw will serve as the interim secretary.
Zrike was not immediately available for an interview with GBH News.
This is a developing story.
