LINCOLN- A search committee of the Nebraska State Board of Education has announced their four finalists for the next commissioner. The committee seeks to interview each in public meetings March 30. Candidates will also meet with various groups throughout that day. The board plans to hold a public meeting March 31 to select the next commissioner.

The candidates are:

Lisa Coons, chief academic officer for the Tennessee Department of Education, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Brian Maher, CEO and executive director of the South Dakota Board of Regents in Pierre, South Dakota.

Melissa Poloncic, superintendent of Douglas County West Community Schools in Valley, Nebraska.

Summer Stephens, superintendent of schools and career and technical education administrator for Churchill County School District in Fallon, Nevada.

“The Board received a strong slate [of] applicants and while choosing finalists was not an easy task, we feel very confident in our selections,” Board President Patti Gubbels said in a statement. “Each finalist brings a unique perspective and extensive experience that will benefit our state.” Matt Blomstedt resigned Jan. 3 after nine years as commissioner, with a salary of $242,019.

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