01.06.26

Scott Statement on the Appointment of Dr. Jeffery O. Smith as Virginia’s Next Secretary of Education

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, released the following statement after Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger nominated Dr. Jeffery O. Smith to lead Virginia’s Department of Education.

“I congratulate Dr. Jeffery O. Smith on his appointment to be Virginia’s new Secretary of Education. Dr. Smith has over 30 years of invaluable experience in public education, including service as the Superintendent of Hampton City Schools and as an adjunct faculty member of Old Dominion University and the College of William and Mary. Throughout his remarkable career, he has advocated for and recognized the importance of providing more access to workforce-oriented education and expanding career pathways for students.

“Dr. Smith’s appointment is critical as schools, students, educators, and parents navigate the Trump Administration’s harmful education agenda, which has threatened funding for low-income and rural K-12 schools, limited access to school meal programs, and made it harder for student loan borrowers to repay their debts.

“Dr. Smith is a visionary leader who joins a long list of highly qualified appointments to Governor-elect Spanberger’s incoming administration who will work tirelessly on behalf of all Virginians. I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Smith and am confident in his ability to lead and strengthen Virginia’s Department of Education in its mission of ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed in life.”

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Press Contact

David Dailey, (202) 225-8351