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As the new chair of Education Commission of the States, I have initiated, with the cooperation of the ECS Executive Committee, a re-examination of the mission, goals and priorities of ECS in recognition that much has changed in the world of education policy since the founding of the organization in 1965.

While the development of a formal strategic plan will await the arrival of a new, permanent leader, this re-examination will serve to both inform the selection of that new leader and give ECS a renewed sense of vigor and mission, as well as an identification of the priorities that will provide focus and direction to the organization.

I am committed to making this a very open, transparent process and one where all stakeholders and supporters of ECS can participate. During the next month, we will receive and review the comments provided by our constituents. By early November, the ECS Executive Committee will meet to review these submissions and to approve a final draft which will then be presented to the ECS Steering Committee for its approval in Denver on December 11.  

Sincerely,

Kathleen Sebelius
Chair, Education Commission of the States
Governor of Kansas