Cathie Black’s nomination for schools chancellor has certainly stirred anger and controversy this week. I think the anger is exacerbated by the general frustration with Mayor Bloomberg’s autocratic style of governing.
Because Black lacks experience in education or public service her candidacy is being questioned. The fact that Bloomberg made her selection a secret and presented her appointment as a fait accompli only added to already simmering tensions.
Black must get a waiver from State Education Commissioner David Steiner to verify that she is an “exceptionally qualified person” nonetheless. Some parents, teachers, administrators and politicians think that waiver should be denied.
Petitions are circulating asking the commissioner to deny the waiver. Others, like Oprah Winfrey, support the mayor’s choice.
Public Advocate Bill de Blasio may have the best solution. He advocating for a public forum where Black would have to speak publicly to parents, educators, and students about her plans.
Ultimately I think Bloomberg did a disservice to Black. If she is SO qualified he should allow her to speak publically about her managerial vision for the Department of Education. Hiding her in the closet seems like a great way to fan the flames of discontent among the naysayers.