J. Christopher Woolard, Ph.D., Interim Superintendent of Public Instruction

The State Board of Education of Ohio selected J. Christopher Woolard, Ph.D., to lead the Ohio Department of Education as the interim state superintendent of public instruction. For nearly two decades serving the State of Ohio, Dr. Woolard has focused on improving student achievement through the effective use of school and district data to inform decision-making. With a focus on academic growth, accountability and strengthening statewide education partnerships, Dr. Woolard champions best practices and collaborative strategies to advance opportunities for all students.

Previously serving as the Department’s chief program officer, Dr. Woolard worked closely with agency program centers and units to oversee all initiatives related to continuous improvement, student supports, advancing professional supports, performance and impact, and teaching, leading and learning. He continues to lead work focused on the Future Forward Ohio state priorities to support pandemic recovery, literacy achievement and reading success, workforce readiness, student wellness and educational options.
 
Dr. Woolard began working at the Department in 2003. Prior to serving as chief program officer, he served as the senior executive director of the Center for Performance and Impact where he led work focused on state assessments, development of Ohio School Report Cards, implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the creation of data tools for educators and state-level policy research.
 
Dr. Woolard received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Political Science from Muskingum College and a Master’s Degree and Doctorate in Political Science from Miami University. He completed a prestigious fellowship with the Harvard Strategic Data Project and has previously received the Data Quality Campaign’s State Data Leader Award for promoting data use to improve student learning and achievement.
 
As a father of three, Dr. Woolard understands the importance of education and is committed to ensuring all Ohio students receive the tools necessary to build successful futures. In his spare time, Dr. Woolard enjoys staying active through running and biking, and watching his children play soccer.

Contact Information

877-644-6338
superintendent@education.ohio.gov

 @OHEducationSupt

Last Modified: 5/28/2023 11:19:42 AM

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