Jim Rier, director of finance and operations at the Department, will take on the number 2 role.
AUGUSTA – Jim Rier, head of finance and operations at the Maine Department of Education since 2003, has assumed the position of deputy commissioner. Commissioner Stephen Bowen announced the move on Wednesday.
“Jim has a depth of experience at the Department, is an expert in school finance, and understands policy and the legislative process like few others in state government,” Bowen said. “I have known Jim since my days in the Legislature. We are lucky to have his experience working for Maine schools.
Rier will manage the day-to-day operations of the Department, with a focus on financial transparency and accountability.
In his time at the Department, Rier has been responsible for implementing the school funding law, all school facilities programs, the school nutrition program and data management and federal reporting.
Before coming to the Department, Rier served on the State Board of Education from 1995-2003, three of those years as chair. He chaired the Governor’s School Facilities Commission, which led to the development of the Revolving Loan Fund, and changes to the Leased Space and Major Capital Construction programs, leading to increased legislative and budgetary support for all three.
For more information, visit the Maine Department of Education
David Connerty-Marin | Director of Communications | 207-624-6880 | David.Connerty-Marin@Maine.gov
Congrats to Jim for all his hard work and will hope to see many great things happen in the days to come.