Penn GSE alum appointed the next State Superintendent of Education in Washington, D.C.

Photo courtesy of Chiefs for Change

Christina Grant, a 2021 graduate of Penn GSE’s Mid-Career Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership, has been nominated as the State Superintendent of Education for Washington, D.C. In her new role, Grant will lead the office in charge of administering grants as well as overseeing standards, assessments, and accountability for D.C.’s elementary and secondary schools. 

“Dr. Grant’s leadership is grounded in the belief that diversity and inclusiveness is more than just a phrase, but the cornerstone set of advancements needed to truly transform public education and our world,” Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a statement announcing Grant’s nomination.

Grant currently serves as Chief of Charter Schools and Innovations for the School District of Philadelphia. She began her career as a public school teacher in Harlem, and has held numerous roles, including Deputy Executive Director at the New York City Department of Education.

“I was the first person in my family to graduate from college, and I’ve dedicated my career to making sure every child has educational opportunities that prepare them to succeed in life,” Grant told Chiefs for Change. “I share Mayor Bowser’s vision to give all families in the District access to excellent schools and transparent information. D.C. has made great strides in recent years and has much to be proud of. I look forward to working with educators and the community to build on that progress so that children—from when they are born through their early adult years—have the supports they need to learn, grow, and pursue their dreams.”