The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) has elected Missouri Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven to its Board of Directors. The election was held at CCSSO’s national meeting today in St. Louis.

"When given the opportunity to address the nation's chiefs at our meeting in St. Louis this week, Commissioner Vandeven invited students on stage to share their experience with state chiefs across the country,” said Chris Minnich, executive director of CCSSO. “This is an example of the Commissioner’s leadership: she always puts students first, turning the spotlight to what's most important in this work."

“It is an honor to serve on the Board of Directors for this organization as we work across the nation to help all students succeed,” said Commissioner Vandeven. “I am eager to work at this level with other states to encourage a better understanding of educational issues among our communities, the government and the public.”

Mississippi Superintendent of Education Dr. Carey Wright was elected CCSSO president.

“Commissioner Vandeven’s voice will be a valuable addition to CCSSO's Board of Directors,” Dr. Wright said. “The leadership she has shown in Missouri to support public schools and value teachers and leaders will be an asset at the national level as we work to create a more equitable education for all kids across this country."

The Illinois Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Smith also weighed in on Commissioner Vandeven’s focus on equity for students.

"As state chiefs, we are working together to ensure all students receive equitable educational opportunities. Commissioner Vandeven has demonstrated her commitment by incorporating student and teacher voices into every conversation at the state level,” said Dr. Smith. “Her leadership is an important asset to CCSSO and our Board of Directors going forward. I am glad she's in the state next door leading with the message that each child matters, and I look forward to working with her."

The Board of Directors is the governing body of CCSSO, which is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of officials who lead departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools and five additional U.S. educational jurisdictions. The Board manages overall business affairs of CCSSO.