Mack named Florida education commissioner after unanimous vote

Florida’s State Board of Education unanimously approved Henry Mack as the state’s education commissioner, following a recommendation from Gov. Ron DeSantis. Mack, a former senior chancellor at the Florida Department of Education and U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor, succeeds Anastasios Kamoutsas and interim commissioner Paul Burns, with a salary around $330,000. DeSantis said Mack shares the administration’s priorities on parental rights, school choice, and preparing students for the workforce, while supporters from Florida college system presidents and the Florida Chamber of Commerce touted his leadership. Mack’s background includes leading career and technical education initiatives and advocating for intellectual diversity and free exchange of ideas on campuses, per endorsements. His confirmation comes as Florida officials emphasize continuity and expansion of the state’s education policies.