Iowa Governor Terry Branstad yesterday named Duane “D.T.” Magee as the interim head of the Iowa Department of Education. He will start his June 24. Magee replaces Jason Glass who announced May 22nd that he was selected to become the Superintendent of Eagle County Schools in Colorado starting on July 1.
“We are conducting a nationwide search for our permanent Department of Education director, and I am pleased D.T. Magee is taking on this important role,” said Branstad. “We are beginning our systemic, transformational education reform, and D.T. Magee will ensure a smooth transition.”
Magee has served as executive director of the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners since July 2012. This department licenses Iowa’s teachers, and the Governor’s office said that he will continue in that role. Prior to his current role, Magee was assistant superintendent of human resources and director of human resources for the Waukee Community School District. Before moving to Waukee, Magee was a principal in the Harlan Community School District.
Magee holds an Ed. S. in Educational Leadership from Drake University, an M.S.E. in Education Administration from Buena Vista University and a B.S.E. in Secondary Business Education from Drake University. He graduated from Ames High School.
“This is a great opportunity to continue the great work of Jason Glass and to ensure continuity within the department as a new leader is chosen,” said Magee. “I look forward to serving in this new capacity and moving Iowa’s education system forward.”
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reported that both Magee and Governor Branstad’s spokesperson Tim Albrecht said his primary responsibility will be to implement the education reform package that was passed by the Iowa Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Branstad on June 3rd.
Albrecht also noted that no end date has been established. Once a new permanent Director is appointed he or she will have to be confirmed by the Iowa Senate which will not likely happen until they reconvene in January 2014 unless a special session is called.