The commissioner of the state Office of Early Childhood Commissioner has announced she will step down in September, according to the governor’s office.
Dr. Myra Jones-Taylor, commissioner of the Office of Early Childhood Commissioner, will leave on Sept. 1 for new professional opportunities, according to the governor’s office.
Dr. Jones-Taylor was originally appointed as Executive Director for the newly created Office of Early Childhood in June 2013.
In May 2014, when the OEC became an independent, cabinet-level agency, she became commissioner and she was re-appointed to the position in January 2015.
“Under Myra’s steady leadership, Connecticut has increased access to and availability of early childhood education – it’s so critical. We aim to ensure all kids enter school ready to learn, and we have made important strides during her tenure. Her passion, expertise, and dedication to the well-being of children – especially those impacted by poverty – are extraordinary,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said in a statement. “I wish Myra the best in her next endeavor and I am confident she will continue to make an impact on the healthy development of young children. I have no doubt that the incredible progress accomplished by the dedicated staff of the Office of Early Childhood will continue.”
Malloy will announce a successor to serve as Office of Early Childhood Commissioner in the coming weeks. In the interim, Deputy Commissioner Linda Goodman will serve as the acting commissioner.
The announcement comes weeks after three top staff members for Malloy announced they will leave in the fall.
