LITTLE ROCK, Ark.— Yesterday, Governor-elect Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced her intention to nominate Jacob Oliva, a key education leader for Governor Ron DeSantis in Florida, as the Secretary of the Department of Education, and that she intends to work in partnership with the State Board of Education to appoint him to serve in a dual role as the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education.

“Education is the foundation for success, and, with my nominee for Secretary of Education and Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, Jacob Oliva, we are ready to transform Arkansas education with bold reforms that will empower every kid to succeed,” Sanders said. “Jacob’s proven success increasing student achievement and his experience serving in many educational roles will make him an asset to my administration. Through my Arkansas LEARNS plan, we will expand access to quality education for every kid growing up in our state, empower parents, not government bureaucrats, and prepare students for the workforce, not government dependency, so everyone has a shot at a better life right here in Arkansas.”

“Governor-elect Sanders has the right vision to unleash Arkansas education, and I’m excited to get to work on day one to enact it,” Oliva said. “Education is the key to the future, creating opportunity for all, which is why I’ve spent my career implementing successful early learning programs, empowering parents with choices, and investing in career readiness. I am ready to continue that work here in Arkansas and look forward to working with Governor-elect Sanders to build a bright future for our students.”

RPA Chairman Cody Hiland added: "The RPA Platform states that 'Arkansas' children deserve a world-class education, developed by parents, educators, and leaders accountable to our citizens, regardless of their ZIP code.' When it comes to reform and parental choice in education Arkansans deserve leaders who are bold in vision, committed in purpose, and courageous in execution. Governor-elect Huckabee Sanders has made clear that education reform will be a hallmark of her Administration throughout her campaign and with this nomination she has demonstrated her commitment to fulfill that promise. Secretary-Designate Jacob Oliva is a proven leader in the field of education and is exactly what Arkansas needs to lead this effort."

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