The 74 Million – Mareesa Nicosia
“John B. King, Jr., the presumptive new U.S. Secretary of Education, was peppered Thursday with questions from senators on everything from college affordability, student data security, charter schools, challenges in rural education and refining regulations for students with disabilities. The two-hour hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (HELP) was one major step on the way to King’s anticipated confirmation as Arne Duncan’s successor next month. King has served as acting secretary since Duncan’s departure late last year, and joined the department as an advisor after a tumultuous tenure as New York state education commissioner in December 2014. Several senators welcomed King warmly and noted they intend to support his nomination when the committee votes March 9.”(more)