By Adam Clark, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
NEWARK — Chris Cerf, next in line to become state-appointed superintendent of Newark Public Schools, has been a history teacher, a White House attorney and the CEO of a global technology company.
But his record as state education commissioner and his support for outgoing Newark Superintendent Cami Anderson is what Newark school officials said both surprises and concerns them about the state’s selection.
[…]‘That’s not a good replacement,” said Donald Jackson, another board member.
John Abeigon, Director of Organization for Newark Teacher’s Union said he fears Cerf “bleeds basically the same dogmas that Cami Anderson believes.”
“The proof will be in the pudding,” Abeigon said. “It might be an opportunity for dialogue but we’ll have to wait and see.”
Cerf resigned last year to become the CEO of Amplify Insight, a company that provides professional and consulting services to teachers and administrators. If approved by the state Board of Education, he would receive a three-year contract.
Mark Biedron, president of the state board, said he hopes the change in superintendents can help Newark children.
“If this leads to the people of Newark having local control over the school district, then I think it’s a good thing,” Biedron said.
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