Gov. Jay Nixon has appointed John Martin, Ph.D, to the Missouri State Board of Education.

Dr. Martin has an extensive background in education. He previously served as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent in the University City School District before moving to Virginia where he was an assistant superintendent in the rural Montgomery County School District from 1990-1997. Dr. Martin returned to Missouri and served as the superintendent of the Grandview C-4 School District from 1997-2006, and the deputy superintendent of the St. Louis Public School District in 2006 and 2007. He most recently served as the interim superintendent of the Kansas City Public School District in 2008.

“We are excited to have Dr. Martin join the State Board,” said Missouri Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro. “He brings a wealth of experience in education that includes time spent in St. Louis and Kansas City. He will be an invaluable member of the team.”

Dr. Martin earned a bachelor’s degree from Harris Stowe State University and a master’s degree from Washington University. He completed his doctorate at Virginia Polytechnic.

The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate, but he will begin serving immediately. The Governor has appointed him for a term ending July 1, 2014.