About > Biography
The motto that best describes me and my life’s work is: Dedicated to Service, Committed to Excellence. My interest has always been in changing the plight of disadvantaged children and teaching is the arena that has allowed me to make the most difference.
I began my professional career as a high school mathematics teacher in a Chicago inner-city community close to my old neighborhood. But I quickly realized I could make a greater contribution outside the classroom. From teaching I soon moved to educational administration and worked in several levels of the educational hierarchy – K-12, state agency and higher education.
At each point in my progression, I implemented new programs and improved public relations. I worked to enhance operational efficiency and organizational effectiveness. And, most importantly, I listened to students, parents and teachers to uncover positive ways to make real changes in our state’s education system.
As Superintendent of Education, I look forward to working with all of you to implement real change at every level of our state’s educational system.
About Tom: A current resident of the Forest Acres suburb of Columbia, Tom is the proud father of Thomas, 35, a graduate of Georgia Tech and a regional sales manager; and Brandynne, 31, who attended Wake Forest University and The College of William and Mary and is an elementary school counselor. Tom is also the proud grandfather of two lovely girls—Taylor, 13, and Tamara, 8.
