Press Release: 5/20/2025
Pedro Martinez to Become DESE Commissioner on July 1
Board recommended current Chicago Public Schools CEO on April 22
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
5/19/2025
MEDIA CONTACT
Jacqueline Reis
Phone
Call Jacqueline Reis at 781-338-3115
Online
Email Jacqueline Reis at jreis@doe.mass.edu
EVERETT — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that Pedro Martinez, who is currently CEO of Chicago Public Schools, will become commissioner of elementary and secondary education in Massachusetts on July 1.
The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted to recommend him to Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler on April 22, which Secretary Tutwiler has accepted. Mr. Martinez’s start date and other details were finalized after that.
“Pedro Martinez has spent more than two decades in education leadership and has improved learning and opportunities for a range of students, from early learners through high school,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I look forward to welcoming him to Massachusetts, and I know he will deliver positive results for our students, educators and families.”
“Our administration has prioritized education and addressing some of the most important challenges of today, including seeing that students can read and read well. Mr. Martinez rose to the top of a pool of strong candidates. I’m glad to see him coming to the Bay State and look forward to working with him,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll.
“Mr. Martinez will bring a new perspective and a renewed commitment to addressing Massachusetts’ opportunity gaps,” said Secretary Tutwiler. “I look forward to working with him on the issues facing our students and on efforts such as the state’s Statewide K-12 Graduation Council.”
Mr. Martinez has been the CEO of Chicago Public Schools since 2021. During his time there, the district expanded full-day early childhood classrooms, saw post-pandemic reading and math gains in the elementary grades, and increased graduation rates and the number of college credits earned in high school. Prior to leading Chicago’s schools, Mr. Martinez was superintendent of schools in San Antonio, Texas from 2015 to 2021. From 2009 to 2015, he held education leadership positions at the district and state level in Nevada.
“I am thrilled to be coming to Massachusetts, the birthplace of public education in this country,” Mr. Martinez said. “I look forward to meeting the state’s students, educators, administrators and families and learning from stakeholders across the state.”
Mr. Martinez, who was born in Mexico, will be DESE's 25th commissioner and the first Latino to hold that position. He will oversee a department of approximately 450 employees that is responsible for educator licensure, setting state learning standards, administering statewide assessments, educating adult learners and administering funds for school meal programs, among other tasks.
Mr. Martinez and his wife and two children are looking forward to moving to Massachusetts.
Statements of Support
Governor’s Advisory Council on Latino Empowerment Chair Josiane Martinez:
“The Governor’s Advisory Council on Latino Empowerment celebrates the appointment of Pedro Martinez as the next commissioner of elementary and secondary education. He steps into this role at a critical moment — when communities across Massachusetts are calling for leadership that understands their lived realities and champions equitable opportunity. Mr. Martinez’s experience and perspective reflect the kind of representation our state needs to strengthen trust, close gaps, and drive meaningful impact for all students and families.”
Governor’s Advisory Council on Black Empowerment Chair Tanisha Sullivan:
“Pedro Martinez is a champion for young people and his selection to be the next DESE commissioner is an important step toward ensuring every Massachusetts student has the opportunity to access a public school education that prepares them for college and career. We look forward to working with him to ensure our schools are delivering for all children.”
Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Executive Director Mary Bourque:
“We look forward to working with the new commissioner to address the most critical issues in public education. We are encouraged that Mr. Martinez has more than 15 years of experience leading school districts and understands that superintendents are essential partners in charting a successful course for students and schools across Massachusetts."
Massachusetts School Counselors Association Executive Director Bob Bardwell:
“The Massachusetts School Counselors Association (MASCA) is excited to welcome Pedro Martinez to Massachusetts as the next DESE commissioner. His proven track record in Chicago, Nevada, and San Antonio shows his deep commitment and dedication to student achievement and well-being. He comes into this role at a critical time in Massachusetts where our students need strong visionary leadership now, more than ever before. MASCA looks forward to partnering with him to provide the very best resources and support that our students deserve.”
Massachusetts Association of School Committees Executive Director Glenn Koocher:
“As a member of the Preliminary Search Committee, I was able to learn a lot about Pedro Martinez and I’m very excited about his selection to be the next DESE commissioner. I anticipate he will bring a powerful voice for all of us as we confront unprecedented and complex challenges to public education in general and Massachusetts in particular.”
Latinos for Education CEO and Founder Amanda Fernandez:
“Latinos for Education, and I personally, would like to congratulate Pedro Martinez on his historic appointment as the new Massachusetts commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. As the first Latino to hold this position, his appointment is especially significant given a quarter of all students in the Commonwealth today are Latino. We look forward to collaborating closely to advance critical priorities such as implementing the Educator Diversity Act, expanding high-quality Early College pathways, increasing dual language programming, authentically engaging families, and advancing innovative K-12 redesign. It is our hope that his leadership will help ensure equitable and empowering educational outcomes for all students.”
Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education Executive Director Ed Lambert:
“Business leaders are excited about the appointment of Mr. Martinez, who has demonstrated strong leadership and a willingness to act first in the best interests of students, which are skills and priorities that are needed right now in Massachusetts. We believe he is someone who will articulate and implement a strong vision to improve outcomes for our students, and we applaud the Healey Administration and the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education for this exciting choice.”
Massachusetts Business Roundtable President & CEO JD Chesloff:
“Massachusetts employers must have the confidence that the state’s education system is providing students the foundation for success in college and career which is fundamental to a vibrant economy. The Roundtable was therefore pleased to serve on the Preliminary Screening Committee for the search for the new commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and could not be more delighted with the selection of Pedro Martinez. Throughout the process, he distinguished himself with his commitment to public education, to equity, and to ensuring a pathway to opportunity for children across the Commonwealth. It is a volatile time for public education, both nationally and here in Massachusetts, requiring a steady hand, a seasoned leader, and the conviction necessary to build upon our state’s education excellence to meet – and exceed – the moment. Pedro Martinez is the right person at the right time, and we congratulate Secretary Tutwiler, DESE Board Chair Craven, and the search committee and we look forward to working with the new commissioner.”