Barbara Hickman. Photo courtesy of the Flagstaff Unified School District.
FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Unified School District Superintendent Barbara Hickman has accepted a position as associate commissioner for quality instruction at the Colorado Department of Education, the department reported in a media release this week.
Hickman has been recognized nationally for building career and college readiness systems and developing innovative, effective career and technical programs. As she transitions from her role as superintendent in Flagstaff, Hickman will begin part-time work at the CDE on March 7 and will transition to full-time this summer, the department reported.
“The team at CDE is well respected throughout the state and even the nation for its expertise, and I’m honored to work with all of the team members to build the best education system in the nation,” Education Commissioner Rich Crandall stated in the release. “I’m excited to add more leaders with exceptional skills and talents to help us in our work and round out our executive team.”
FUSD reported that Hickman approached the Governing Board seeking to transition to a new opportunity.
“The Governing Board is currently working with the Superintendent to facilitate this transition amicably,” the district reported. “The Governing Board wishes to reassure all members of the community that it will maintain its commitment to excellence and the continuity of the fine programs that make the Flagstaff Unified School District the outstanding District of the future. Further information will be coming soon.”
The Colorado Department of Education also announced that joining Hickman at the department are Angela Denning, who will be the executive director of the Exceptional Student Services Unit beginning in April, and Roseyn Hood, who will be the associate commissioner for strategic partnerships.
Denning was the deputy associate director for exceptional student services at the Arizona Department of Education, the department reported. With deep roots in Colorado and Wyoming, Denning is well regarded nationally for improving outcomes for students with exceptionalities, including those with disabilities and those who are gifted and talented. Denning will lead the unit with Toby King, who has been appointed deputy executive director for ESSU.
As a Colorado native and graduate of Arvada West High School, Hood is currently the principal of Higley High School in Gilbert, Arizona, the department reported. She is known nationally for her work closing the achievement gap and ensuring that all students graduate ready for college and careers. Hood will begin part-time work at CDE in March as she transitions from her current job and will move into working full time this summer.
Click here for the entire media release.
Please see related story:
Arizona Daily Sun — Hickman to resign as FUSD superintendent