The Senate Rules Committee in a hearing this morning voted to confirm Dr. Kurt Steinhaus of Los Alamos as New Mexico Secretary of Education. Dr. Steinhaus (seated at right at the center table) is shown answering questions from senators during the hearing. A long line of individuals and representatives from organizations across the state shared their strong support for Dr. Steinhaus during the hearing. A sampling of those speaking includes Executive Director Joe Guillen of the New Mexico School Boards Association, American Federation of Teachers – New Mexico President Whitney Holland, Director Kristine Coblentz of Los Alamos Healthy Schools, former San Ildefonso Gov. James Mountain, his daughter and a former Los Alamos student Leah Mountain, Early Childhood Education and Care Department Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky. Senate Rules Committee Chairman Daniel A. Ivey-Soto described the incredible sense of relief he and many of his colleagues felt when Steinhaus was designated by the governor for the Secretary of Education position. Vice Chairman Leo Jaramillo also commended Steinhaus and mentioned having worked for him several years ago at Los Alamos National Laboratory, calling him a mentor and friend. The matter now heads to the Senate floor for final confirmation this afternoon. Post screenshot