May 17, 2006

School advocate to work for education needs of Kansas kids
Governor appoints Dr. Andy Tompkins

Kansans are committed to helping children succeed, and that means ensuring they have the opportunity to go to first-class schools.

To help achieve this goal, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Dr. Andy Tompkins to serve as a member of the Education Commission of the States.

“Andy is a leader in the field of education and his expertise will help us find ways to ensure our schools are both effective and efficient. Kansas students, parents and teachers are fortunate to have him representing our state at the national level,” Sebelius said.

The Education Commission of the States is a national organization that collects, correlates, analyzes and interprets data and information concerning educational needs and resources in schools across America.

Dr. Tompkins, Topeka, is currently an associate professor in the department of teaching and leadership at the University of Kansas. In June of 2005, he retired as Kansas Commissioner of Education after nine years of service.

Prior to his tenure as commissioner, Dr. Tompkins was a teacher, principal, superintendent and university administrator. Between 1995 and 2005, he served on the Education Commission of the States, including three years as its treasurer.

Dr. Tompkins will serve at the pleasure of the Governor. He replaces Dr. Alexa Posny, who resigned.