Karla Denny, Director, Communications and Recognition Programs, 785-296-4876
April 23, 2008
For Immediate Release
Commissioner Appoints New Deputy Commissioner, Learning & Innovative Services Division
Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Alexa Posny today appointed Dr. Diane DeBacker Deputy Commissioner of Education. In this role, Diane will be responsible for oversight of the Division of Learning & Innovative Services, effective July 1, 2008.
Dr. DeBacker has over 25 years experience as an educator. She began her career in education as a high school business education teacher in 1982. Since that time she has served as the director of the Kansas Competency-Based Curriculum Center at Washburn University; an assistant principal at Washburn Rural High School, USD 437; principal of Washburn Rural Alternative High School; and director of School Improvement and Accreditation for the Kansas State Department of Education from 2003-2006. Additionally, Dr. DeBacker served as Interim Deputy Commissioner of Educationfrom April 2006 through June 2006. Currently Dr. DeBacker is the associate superintendent of Shawnee Heights USD 450.
Dr. DeBacker holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Emporia State University, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Washburn University, and a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership from Kansas State University.
She has received numerous awards and recognitions including the Excellence in Educational Leadership Award from the University Council for Educational Leadership, Kansas State University, spring 2007; and Kansas Administrator of the Year, awarded by the Kansas Association of Education Office Professionals, April 2006.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome Diane back to the Kansas State Department of Education. The experiences she gained at the district and state level will serve her well as she works with educators across the state,” said Alexa Posny. “Her demonstrated leadership, management style, and communication skills, as well as collaboration and decision-making skills made her the ideal candidate for the position of Deputy Commissioner,” continued Dr. Posny. “I look forward to working with her.”
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