The Alabama State Board of Education appointed Dr. Ed Richardson as the interim State Superintendent during their Thursday morning meeting.
Richardson is no stranger to the Alabama education system. He previously served as the Alabama State Superintendent of Education from October 1995 to January 2004, and then as President of Auburn University from 2004-2007.
“I have a lot of confidence in Dr. Richardson in being the (interim) superintendent.” said Governor Kay Ivey, who also serves as the President of the Alabama State Board of Education.
As a retired state employee, Richardson’s contract will be limited to a maximum of two six-month terms, giving the State Board of Education a limited window to find a permanent replacement.
Richardson fills the void left Michael Sentance who resigned from the State Superintendent post on Wednesday following months of the board questioning his communication and management skills.
Richardson was approved for the position by an 8-1 vote.
“There are so many accomplishments that the board is responsible for, because of the leadership of Dr. Richardson,” said Stephanie Bell, Vice President of the Alabama State Board.
Dr. Richardson holds a B.S., M.Ed. and Ed.D. from Auburn University, and began his career in education as a classroom teacher in Montgomery County. He was also superintendent of schools for the Auburn City Board of Education.
