Salem Superintendent Steve Zrike Named MA Secretary Of Education

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll: "As a former mayor of Salem, I know firsthand what a strong partner he is for our students."

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Salem Superintendent of Schools Steve Zrike is leaving the district after six years to become the next Massachusetts Secretary of Education. Gov. Maura Healey announced that Zrike was chosen to replace departing Secretary of Education Patrick Tutweiler, effective on Friday.

Why it matters

Zrike has a proven track record of improving learning for students across Massachusetts and the country. His leadership as Secretary of Education is expected to strengthen education statewide and build on the progress made in the last three years.

The details

Zrike led the Salem school district through improvements in attendance and state test scores, and oversaw changes including the consolidation of middle school grades and the reconfiguration of elementary schools. He also championed the new $239 million Salem High School project. Zrike is expected to transition to the Secretary of Education role in March.

  • Zrike is leaving his position as Salem Superintendent of Schools.
  • Zrike will become the next Massachusetts Secretary of Education, effective on Friday.
  • Zrike is expected to transition to the new position in March.

The players

Steve Zrike

The outgoing Superintendent of Schools in Salem, Massachusetts, who has been chosen as the next Massachusetts Secretary of Education.

Maura Healey

The Governor of Massachusetts who announced Zrike's appointment as the next Secretary of Education.

Kim Driscoll

The Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, who previously served as the Mayor of Salem and knows Zrike as a strong partner for students.

Patrick Tutweiler

The departing Massachusetts Secretary of Education, whose position Zrike will be taking over.

Beth Anne Cornell

A member of the Salem School Committee, who said the Committee intends to name an interim superintendent as they search for Zrike's permanent replacement.

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What they’re saying

“I look forward to continuing to work alongside students, parents and educators across the state to ensure every student has the support and opportunities they need to succeed.”

— Steve Zrike, Outgoing Salem Superintendent of Schools (Patch.com)

“As a former mayor of Salem, I know firsthand what a strong partner he is for our students, teachers and parents, and I am confident his leadership will strengthen education across our state and build on the great work fro the last three years.”

— Kim Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts (Patch.com)

“Zrike has a proven track record of improving learning for thousands of students across our state and the country and has changed lives and inspired those he works with.”

— Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts (Patch.com)

What’s next

The Salem School Committee intends to name an interim superintendent at its next meeting as it begins the search for Zrike's permanent replacement.

The takeaway

Zrike's appointment as Massachusetts Secretary of Education is expected to strengthen education statewide, building on the progress made in the last three years. His leadership and proven track record of improving learning for students will benefit school districts across the Commonwealth.