On March 10, Kevin Dehmer was sworn in as commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education following a ceremonial swearing-in hosted by Gov. Phil Murphy at the State House, according to a news release from the NJDOE.
Dehmer has spent more than 17 years in public service with the NJDOE, previously serving twice as Interim Commissioner of Education and in other key leadership roles, including assistant commissioner for finance/chief financial officer.
“Kevin Dehmer’s steadfast leadership and commitment to education in New Jersey have been instrumental in advancing policies that support students, educators, and families across the state,” Murphy said. “His expertise in education finance and policy, along with his dedication to equity and opportunity for all students, make him an outstanding choice to lead the Department. I am confident he will continue to drive initiatives that strengthen our public education system.”
“I have spent my career ensuring that every dollar invested in our schools is used to create real opportunities for students,” Dehmer said. “New Jersey’s education system is one of the strongest in the nation, but we cannot rest on our successes. We must continue to innovate, support our educators, and ensure that every student — no matter their circumstances — has access to an excellent education that prepares them for the future. I want to thank the governor for this opportunity and I’m ready to build on the progress we’ve already made by working with educators, families, and communities to tackle the challenges ahead.”
Dr. Timothy Purnell, executive director and CEO of the New Jersey School Boards Association, said, “I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Dehmer on his swearing-in as our state’s education commissioner.” He added, “He has demonstrated quality leadership during his service at the New Jersey Department of Education, serving as a valued partner to the education community. He continues to be an effective advocate for New Jersey’s public education system. We offer our sincere congratulations — and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with him to ensure all students have access to a high-quality education.”
As commissioner, Dehmer oversees the state’s public education system, which serves over 1.4 million students across more than 600 local education agencies. He is responsible for guiding policy initiatives, overseeing school funding, and ensuring compliance with state and federal education laws. His leadership will play a crucial role in addressing key issues such as teacher recruitment and retention, student achievement, and equitable access to educational resources.
During his tenure at the NJDOE, he has been instrumental in developing and implementing the administration’s historic school funding policies, supporting districts in financial planning, and ensuring resources are allocated effectively to serve the needs of students statewide.
Others Applaud Swearing In
“Kevin Dehmer is a true public servant who has dedicated his career to strengthening our education system and improving opportunities for our children,” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “His deep institutional knowledge, experience working with the Legislature, and understanding of the challenges facing New Jersey’s educators, students, and families have already led to meaningful progress at the department. As commissioner, I am confident he will continue to drive forward policies that support our schools and uplift every learner in our state.” She added, “I am eager to continue working with Commissioner Dehmer to address learning loss and student literacy, expand early childhood education, and create a more equitable system so that New Jersey can be the first state in the nation to close the achievement gap.”
Sen. Vin Gopal, chair of the Senate Education Committee, said, “Kevin Dehmer’s swearing-in as commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education represents a significant advancement for our state’s schools, educators, and students. His expertise and dedication to education policy are crucial as we work to improve our school system, support our teachers, and guarantee that every child has access to a high-quality education.” He added, “As chair of the Senate Education Committee, I look forward to working together with him to tackle key challenges and seize opportunities in education across New Jersey.”
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds Jackson, chair of the Assembly Education Committee, said, “New Jersey’s students, educators, and families will benefit from Kevin Dehmer’s proven dedication to public education. His expertise in school funding and policy has already shaped stronger learning environments, and I am confident that under his leadership, we will continue to invest in the success of every child.” She added, “I look forward to working with Commissioner Dehmer to continue strengthening our education system and providing opportunities to all New Jersey students.”
Dehmer had been serving as acting commissioner since February 2024 and the State Senate unanimously confirmed his nomination Feb. 25, 2025. Prior to returning to the department, he served as executive director and senior researcher at the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University since October 2022.
Under his leadership, the department will continue to prioritize initiatives that address educational equity, enhance school safety, and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities.
Read more, including comments from other education leaders, in the full news release.
