Hasson confirmed as Maine commissioner of education

AUGUSTA — Robert G. Hasson Jr. is the commissioner of education, following a March 30 vote in the Maine Senate. Hasson had been acting commissioner of education since November 2016. A long-time resident of South Portland, Hasson has spent the majority of his career working in education.

He is a former principal, special education director and elementary school teacher, in addition to his 20-plus years of experience as a superintendent at School Administration District 51, in Cumberland and North Yarmouth, according to a news release from the state Department of Educaiton.

The 12-0 Senate vote was the final step in Hasson’s confirmation following his nomination by Gov. Paul R. LePage, an interview by the State Board of Education, and a vote of the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.

In a letter to department staff shortly after confirmation, he wrote, “I intend to use my time as commissioner to improve the experience of students, bridge the gap between teachers and administration, and provide support in as many ways possible to schools and districts throughout the state.”

Before he was named acting commissioner a year and a half ago, he was director of certification within the department. Before that, he served in leadership roles at both the Maine School Management Association and the Maine School Superintendents Association.

In presenting Hasson for confirmation before the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee, Senior Policy Advisor to LePage, Aaron Chadbourne said, “Bob Hasson is fervent about acting in the best interest of Maine students, which is the charge that Governor LePage believes is appropriate for all of us engaged in public education. Governor LePage has given Bob license not only to think outside the box but to disregard the box entirely in pursuit of supporting Maine students and teachers, serving their best interests.”