INDIANAPOLIS (AP): Two vocal critics of Democratic state schools Superintendent Glenda Ritz will no longer serve on the State Board of Education under its revamped membership.
Persistent Ritz critics Marian University President Dan Elsener and Indiana Wesleyan University professor Brad Oliver won't be back after Republican Gov. Mike Pence and GOP legislative leaders announced their 10 appointments to join Ritz on the education board Wednesday. Huntington middle school teacher Cari Whicker will return to the board.
The terms of the current board members expire Monday under changes to the board's makeup adopted by the Legislature this year. Lawmakers approved the changes after a contentious debate about conflicts between the Republican-dominated board and Ritz.
Pence reappointed five current board members, including some who have clashed with Ritz. Senate leader David Long of Fort Wayne appointed former Northwest and Southwest Allen County Schools Superintendent Steve Yager.
Ritz remains chairwoman of the state board under the new law.
