Former D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee has joined Florida Gov.-elect Rick Scott’s education transition team, The Washington Post reported.
The statement from Scott's office described Rhee as a nationally "recognized education reformer" who would "help him find innovative ways to create a new education system for a new economy."
The statement did not make clear what Rhee's responsibilities will be, beyond advising the governor-elect on innovations, cost-saving opportunities, success stories from other states and other potential education improvements. It also did not say whether she will move to Florida to help Scott.
Rhee served as chancellor for three controversial years. She stepped aside after months of speculation about whether she and Mayor-elect Vincent Gray could work together or whether either of them wanted to do so.
During her tenure, Rhee fired hundreds of teachers and closed schools in an effort to improve education -- moves that triggered both praise and anger among a lot of folks. She also reached an agreement with the teachers’ union on pay for performance.
Rhee acknowledged she and Mayor Adrian Fenty, who hired her, didn't build enough local community support for their reforms.
