Former Area Superintendent Willie Jett Named Minnesota Commissioner of Education

(KNSI) – Former St. Cloud Area Schools Superintendent Willie Jett has been appointed to Governor Tim Walz’s cabinet when his second term begins in January.

Jett will serve as commissioner of education, one of six new faces. In a press release, the governor’s office cites Jett’s three decades of experience and the diversity of those stops. Jett has been employed in greater Minnesota, suburban, and urban districts during his career.

Walz says, “Having worked in school districts from St. Cloud to St. Paul, Willie Jett understands the shared challenges and diverse needs of schools across our state.”

The governor says Jett’s tenure will focus on ensuring a world-class education for every student.

Education Minnesota President Denise Specht says in a statement that there are significant hurdles for Minnesota schools right now, which Jett will inherit. She says, “From the opportunity gaps faced by our BIPOC students, to reducing class sizes, to providing sufficient mental health services, to stabilizing the educator workforce through improved compensation from the first day through a dignified retirement, there are unprecedented challenges for Minnesota schools right now.”

Federal test score data from October showed Minnesota students in eighth and fourth grades scored significantly worse in reading and math in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic assessments. The decline was more dramatic than what was seen in other states.

Jett served as District 742 superintendent from 2013 until the end of the last school year. He was succeeded by Dr. Laurie Putnam in July.

___