CONCORD, NH – Governor Kelly Ayotte announced Thursday that Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut will complete his term in office and will continue in holdover status to support schools through the end of the school year. His term ends March 23, 2025.

Ayotte said, “Commissioner Frank Edelblut has led the way in making our state’s education system more innovative and forward-thinking, and he has played a key role in expanding educational opportunities for families.

“I thank Commissioner Edelblut for his service to our state and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. My office will launch a search for our next Education Commissioner who will build on this momentum and further our goal of improving our standards and academic performance, supporting our incredible teachers, and delivering a best-in-class education for every child in New Hampshire.”

House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson, D-Exeter, said Edelblut’s leaving is a win for education.

“Since he was first appointed as commissioner in 2017, Edelblut has used his office to simultaneously weaken public education standards and push right-wing private education schemes that increase taxes and harm our mission to provide high-quality education to every child in New Hampshire.  

“The next Commissioner will oversee the department as lawsuits currently before the state Supreme Court that will guide reforms to our education funding formula are decided. In nominating a replacement to lead the Department of Education, I strongly encourage Governor Ayotte to seek out candidates with experience in public education who will fight to give our students the resources they need to thrive,” Simpson said.

Edelblut said: “This agency remains committed to championing school choice, equipping educators with the tools they need to enhance learning, and providing resources that empower students to thrive. Since 2017, we have worked to positively impact students across the state – supporting public schools, nonpublic schools, public charter schools, home education, microschools, and Education Freedom Account students.”