The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5217, aims to establish the Commissioner of Education as the department head of the Department of Education, effective July 1, 2028. The bill repeals and replaces existing legal language in sections 4-5 and 10-3a of the general statutes. Notably, it removes references to the State Board of Education in defining the "department head" and in the administration of the Department of Education, instead designating the Commissioner of Education for these roles. The Commissioner will be appointed by the Governor for a four-year term, aligning with the Governor's term, and will oversee the department's activities without the need for policies established by the State Board.

Additionally, the bill allows the Commissioner of Education to organize the Department of Education into necessary units and create advisory boards as needed for efficient operations. The changes reflect a shift in governance, placing direct authority in the hands of the Commissioner rather than the State Board, thereby streamlining the administrative structure of the Department of Education.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-5, 10-3a