RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia’s top public school administrator is retiring in May from the position she’s held since 2008.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia Wright announced her retirement on Tuesday, the state Department of Education said.
Wright was appointed by Gov. Tim Kaine in 2008 and was reappointed by Gov. Bob McDonnell in 2010. She also served as acting superintendent under Gov. Mark Warner in 2006 and early 2007.
During her tenure, Wright oversaw a revision of the state’s Standards of Learning tests to focus on college and career readiness. She also promoted the expanded use of technology in schools.
The Brunswick County native taught mathematics for 10 years at the secondary and middle school levels in Sussex County and Chesterfield County before joining the state agency in 1985.
Before serving as superintendent, Wright had several roles at the state education department, including chief deputy superintendent, director of secondary instruction and state mathematics specialist.
A replacement must be appointed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe and confirmed by the General Assembly.
Wright received her doctorate in mathematics education from the University of Virginia, a master’s degree in mathematics education from Virginia Commonwealth University and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from James Madison University.
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