Penny Schwinn Named Deputy Secretary of Education by President-elect Trump
President-elect Donald Trump has announced Penny Schwinn as his choice for Deputy Secretary of Education, positioning her as a key figure in shaping and implementing the administration’s education policies. Schwinn will work alongside Linda McMahon, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Education, to drive reforms aimed at enhancing school choice and promoting state-centered education initiatives.
Schwinn’s Educational Journey
Born in Sacramento, California, Schwinn was raised in a family deeply committed to education. Her mother’s four-decade career as a public school teacher greatly influenced Schwinn’s path. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, followed by a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and a Ph.D. from Claremont Graduate University. Schwinn also holds certifications from Harvard Business School and the University of Southern California.
A Career Rooted in Education Reform
Schwinn began her career with Teach for America, teaching in Baltimore’s urban schools. This experience shaped her understanding of education inequities and inspired her to found Capitol Collegiate Academy, a charter school in Sacramento. Her administrative roles across different educational systems highlighted her ability to tackle complex challenges and implement impactful reforms.
Leadership in Tennessee
From 2019 to 2023, Schwinn served as Tennessee’s Commissioner of Education under Governor Bill Lee. Her tenure saw significant reforms, including overhauling the state’s school funding formula to prioritize equity. Schwinn also emphasized improving literacy rates by launching teacher training programs and expanding evidence-based practices.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Schwinn spearheaded initiatives to address learning loss and ensure resources reached underserved students. However, her tenure faced criticism over departmental turnover, legislative consultations, and her approach to sensitive topics like race and history in education.
Transition to National Leadership
After stepping down as Tennessee’s education commissioner, Schwinn briefly served as Vice President at the University of Florida. Now, as Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Education, Schwinn is expected to play a pivotal role in promoting school choice and aligning federal policies with state-focused education reforms. Her experience and commitment to evidence-based strategies make her a significant figure in Trump’s educational agenda.
Schwinn’s appointment underscores the administration’s focus on transformative education policies aimed at expanding opportunities and improving outcomes for students across the nation.
