Executive TeamOffice of the Commissioner :

Minnesota's education commissioner heads an agency of more than 450 employees, charged with the mission of improving educational achievement for children from PreK-12. Commissioner Seagren works closely with Governor Tim Pawlenty to promote a wide variety of early learning and K-12 education policies and initiatives designed to challenge Minnesota students with rigor and relevance, while maintaining accountability for results. Commissioner Seagren bio.

The Deputy Commissioner is responsible for the day to day operations of the Minnesota Department of Education, including establishing fiscal policy, agency management and human resource operations as well as oversight of the legislative agenda, special education compliance, Q Comp and accountability issues. Deputy Commissioner Anderson bio. 

Assistant Commissioner Karen Klinzing is responsible for academic standards development, professional development for Minnesota educators, Indian education programs, school choice programs, including charter schools; state library services; school technology and licensing services for administrators and teachers. Karen Klinzing bio.

As the Assistant Commissioner of The Office of Accountability and Improvement, Pat Olson is responsible for the agency's statewide testing program; No Child Left Behind; School Improvement; and research and evaluation. Pat Olson bio.

Assistant Commissioner Morgan Brown oversees school choice programs, special education policy, food and nutrition services, adult basic education, and American Indian education programs at the Minnesota Department of Education. Morgan Brown bio.

As Director of Communications, Randy oversees internal and external communications for the Minnesota Department of Education and acts as the main point of contact for members of the media. Randy Wanke bio.

The Minnesota Department of Education oversees, administers and supports a wide range of K-12, early learning, adult and special education functions, many of which are mandated and regulated by the Minnesota Legislature.  As Government Relations Director, Amy meets regularly with members of the Minnesota Legislature and other Minnesota state agencies to provide information on MDE initiatives and compliance, and to clarify policies and procedures.  Amy Walstien bio.