New Leader For State’s Education Agency

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Former Dallas school board member Mike Morath (muh-RATH') has taken over as head of the Texas Education Agency.

Morath was sworn in Monday as the state's education commissioner.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Dec. 14 appointed Morath to oversee the 1,200 districts and charter schools across Texas.

Morath replaces Education Commissioner Michael Williams, who led TEA since 2012 and cited family reasons for his resignation.

Morath's appointment is subject to Texas Senate confirmation during the 2017 session.