Education chief

search starts

MONTPELIER — Gov. Peter Shumlin and the chairman of the state Board of Education say they plan to launch a national search for an Education secretary after a Vermont law was passed that gives the governor the authority to make that appointment.

Education Commissioner Armando Vilaseca plans to apply for the post.

Vermont lawmakers passed legislation that elevates the state’s chief education official from a commissioner to a Cabinet-level secretary.

In the past, the education commissioner has been appointed by a state board of education. The new law calls for an education secretary who would be appointed by and report to the governor.

The change takes effect on Jan. 1, 2013. The board will conduct the job search, and chose at least three names to send to the governor for consideration.