Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says he wants Connecticut's interim education commissioner, Dianna Wentzell, to take on the job permanently.
The Democrat announced her appointment on Friday.
Wentzell, the chief academic officer at the Department of Education and a former classroom teacher, was appointed interim commissioner in January after Stefan Pryor announced he wouldn't seek a second term at the helm.
Malloy said he recently asked Wentzell to apply for the job after being impressed by qualifications, demeanor and efforts as interim commissioner. Last month, Malloy interviewed several other finalists, but said he became convinced Wentzell was the "right person" and asked the state Board of Education to review her qualifications.
Wentzell's nomination awaits legislative confirmation. She said she's looking forward to supporting the work started under Malloy's administration.
