Tony Bennett

For nearly 30 years, Dr. Tony Bennett has dedicated his life to educating students. He began his career in southern Indiana as a high school science teacher and basketball coach, quickly advancing to school administration while building a reputation as a leader with talent for school management, strategic planning, and effective budgeting. After serving as district superintendent, Tony was elected as Indiana's Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2009. As State Superintendent, he led Indiana through its most comprehensive, student-focused education reform initiatives. Focused on greater accountability and freedom, Tony created the nation's most-expansive school voucher program and saw record high graduation rates and participation in Advanced Placement courses and exams. Bennett's leadership quickly earned him a national reputation among government and education leaders. In 2010, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce named Tony Government Leader of the Year and, in 2011, The Fordham Institute named him Education Reform Idol. Tony's high expectations for students and commitment to involving community partners have also made him a key player in the national education reform efforts. He serves on the board of the Council for Chief State School Officers, the governing board of the Partnership for the Assessment for Readiness for College and Career (PARCC), and is a founding member of Chiefs for Change. He received his doctorate degree in Education and his Superintendent's License from Spalding University. He earned his Certification in Secondary Administration and Supervision, a Master of Science in Secondary Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Indiana University Southeast. Dr. Bennett, a devoted father of four, resides in Tallahassee with his wife Tina and beloved dog, Teddy.