As Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler steps down this week, we want to take a moment to say thank you. His leadership has been steady and thoughtful at a time of societal transition, when our schools have needed both clarity and care. He has kept students at the center, while never losing sight of the adults who make learning possible each day. His commitment to coherence, access, and opportunity has shaped important work across the Commonwealth, and we are deeply grateful for the partnership he extended to us and so many others along the way. We wish him every success in his next chapter.

We are also thrilled to welcome Dr. Steve Zrike as he prepares to step into the role of Secretary. Steve leads with courage, conviction and heart. In Salem, his clarity of vision, willingness to take smart risks, and belief that innovation and implementation must go hand in hand have made a real difference for students and educators alike. He understands that meaningful change is ambitious, deeply human, and can often be messy. We have seen firsthand his commitment to continuous improvement and to building systems that serve all learners well, and we are excited to see that leadership now extend across the Commonwealth.

Transitions are never easy, especially when treasured partners move on. But they also invite new energy and possibility. We are grateful for Secretary Tutwiler’s service and look forward to continuing our work alongside incoming Secretary Zrike in the months and years ahead.

Power of Place partners with educators at the district, school and classroom levels to co-design transformative professional learning experiences. Our cross-district learning communities offer educators much-needed opportunities to reflect, connect, and innovate with colleagues beyond their own communities, supporting both personal and professional growth.