Applications are now being accepted for the next Kentucky Commissioner of Education.

In April, current Commissioner Terry Holliday announced his intention to retire effective August 31. Holliday has served in the position since August 2009.

Interested applicants are encouraged to read through the position description and submit the requested information to the firm managing the search by July 17. Details are included in the job posting.

Earlier this month, after input from the public, the Kentucky Board of Education finalized the list of characteristics it would like the next commissioner of education to possess. The board will use the list and suggestions from the public in evaluating candidates. The board and search firm also established a tentative timeline for hiring the next commissioner:

• June-July – Recruitment
• August 5 – Prospect review meeting to go through the applications with the board and select candidates for the first round of interviews
• August 14-15 – Round-one of interviews with the board
• August 25 – Reference feedback meeting/selection of finalists
• August 28-29 – Round two of interviews with the board

If it appears that it may be necessary for someone to fill in between the time Commissioner Holliday retires and the new commissioner begins, the board will appoint an interim commissioner.