Patrick Tutwiler, the state’s Secretary of Education—and a guest on The 9:30 Call and at the Advocacy Network’s Reception for Reflection—is stepping down after more than years of serving in Governor Maura Healey’s administration. 

As The Boston Globe reports, “Tutwiler will take over as president and chief executive of Walker Therapeutic & Educational Programs in Needham. The non-profit provides ‘comprehensive programming in the fields of child welfare, children’s behavioral health, and special education,’ according to its website.”

Tutwiler will be replaced by Stephen Zrike Jr., who is currently the Superintendent at Salem Public Schools and previously led the Holyoke and Wakefield Public Schools

Tutwiler, in his work as education secretary, has steered through the aftermath of the pandemic, calling for the education system to Stabilize, heal, and transform.

During Tutwiler’s tenure, WGBH reports, “The state expanded early literacy initiatives, increased access to early college and career pathways, stabilized and grew the child care system, and made universal free school meals permanent.”

Governor Healey praises Tutwiler’s “lifetime of service to the students of Massachusetts,” adding, “Together, we created nation-leading graduation standards, enrolled thousands more students in early college, added thousands of child care seats, expanded early literacy tutoring and made historic increases to college financial aid. But what I’ll remember most about Secretary Tutwiler is his unfailing positivity and the absolute joy on the faces of students across the state any time he walks into the room. We wish him the very best in his next steps.”

Tutwiler was also celebrated at this month’s Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) Board meeting. Paul Belsito, the Board’s chair, speaks at the 7:09 time mark. EEC Commissioner Amy Kershaw speaks at the 22:10 time mark. And Amy O’Leary, executive director of Strategies for Children, speaks at the 29:40 time mark, and her full comments are posted here. And Tutwiler speaks at the 15:25 time mark.

O’Leary adds, “Secretary Tutwiler has formed so many connections with the early childhood community. He has visited programs, listened carefully to early educators, shared his passion, and welcomed everyone to the world of policymaking. We are so grateful for his support and his inspiring commitment to strengthening education for children, starting at birth and on through higher education.”

And Tutwiler himself says that as he prepares for his new role his heart is full.

“This moment brings both excitement for what’s ahead and profound gratitude for the years I was honored to serve side by side with students, educators, families and communities to strengthen the educational landscape of the Commonwealth. 

“I want to thank Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll for the privilege of serving as Secretary of Education. I will miss this work and this partnership more than I can express, but I also feel immense hope knowing that I’m leaving it in such capable, committed, and compassionate hands.” 

In an email to his colleagues, Tutwiler adds, “I’m guided by the words of bell hooks, who wrote, ‘Education is the practice of freedom.’ You have embodied this truth every day, fighting for the freedom of students to learn, to grow, to imagine, and to belong. I am humbled to have been part of this work with you.”

Here at Strategies for Children, we’re glad Tutwiler will still be working on behalf of children in Massachusetts, and we wish him well in his new job.