BOISE -- Incoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra says she has been thoughtfully preparing for her position; waiting to release information and give interviews.
"I think in preparing for such a big job and such an honor, that voters in Idaho appreciate that the next State Superintendent of Public Instruction will take their time and be thorough in all the decisions that are made," said Ybarra in her first post-election interview with NewsChannel Seven.
In one of her first decisions, she put together a transition team of 17 people to give feedback on the department. Included are educators like Vallivue School's Superintendent Dr. Pat Charlton, along with current and former senators and representatives. She has also spoken with current State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna.
"We've had a couple of conversations about the administration and moving forward, but my administration will be different," Ybarra said.
Ybarra is working to fill four to five vacancies, depending on how she structures her department. She has filled two thus far.
The Interim Deputy Superintendent will be former interim Nampa Superintendent, Pete Koehler. Special Assistant to the Superintendent will be retired Senator Tim Corder. Ybarra would not talk about personnel decisions she may make with Luna's existing staff. She said one of her priorities is being open with the public during her time in office.
"There's some issues out there with trust at this time, and so that's one of the things that I will be working on and changing the culture and I think that Idaho is ready for this change," she said.
Ybarra wants to make the State Department of Education a resource for all.
"The State Department of Education will be the go-to place for educators, students and parents, and stakeholders," Ybarra said.
She said one of her priorities in hiring is making sure her department is staffed with former educators and people who know the classroom. She is a former third grade teacher.
