Senate Confirms Dr. Miguel Cardona as Secretary of Education

Congratulations to Dr. Miguel Cardona, the nation’s new Secretary of Education. As the national provider of educational materials for students who are blind or visually impaired, all of us at the American Printing House for the Blind look forward to working with you to advance educational programs, services and opportunities.

Dr. Cardona’s nomination was announced by President Biden on December 22, 2020 and he was approved by the United States Senate on March 1, 2021. He is a proud product of Connecticut public schools and universities and he has served as a public school teacher, principal, assistant superintendent and most recently as Connecticut’s Commissioner of Education. And, he also never fails to point out that he is the parent of two public high school students.

From his emergence on the national stage, those who work with Dr. Cardona have stressed his energy and passion, especially his commitment to serving children, families and communities that have been overlooked and marginalized.

The son of Puerto Rican parents, Dr. Cardona said at his confirmation hearing before the US Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions: “For me, education opened doors. That is the power and promise of America — but it is not a promise kept for every student.”

He added, “If I am fortunate enough to be confirmed, I will work tirelessly to make sure our education system is a door to opportunity, a great equalizer, for every American.”

Senator Patty Murray, who chairs the Senate Committee, summed up the challenges ahead at the hearing, saying, “We have a lot of work to do, we have an excellent candidate to help us get it done, and we have no time to waste.” She added, “The pain of this pandemic isn’t felt equally, instead it is deepening systemic inequities that were already incredibly damaging for students of color, students from families with low incomes, students with disabilities, women, English learners, students experiencing homelessness, and so many others.”

Senator Richard Burr, Ranking Minority Leader on the Senate Committee, said “Dr. Cardona brings with him the background, qualifications, and temperament needed to serve in this position at a very challenging time. I’m glad to be able to support his nomination today, and I look forward to working with him on these important initiatives.”

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, who chairs the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations and who represents a district in Connecticut said, “I look forward to getting to work to accomplish our shared desire to increase school funding and provide for students at all levels.”