CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has chosen two leaders for the state department of education with local connections.

The Governor-elect named Charlottesville City Schools graduate Jenna Conway to be the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the University of Virginia’s Director for State Government Relations Connor Andrews as state Deputy Secretary of Education.

Conway has been working in the state education department serving as Chief of Early Learning and Specialized Populations.

“It is an honor to serve under Governor Spanberger as Superintendent of Public Instruction, advancing her vision for excellence in public education. Together, we are committed to strengthening Virginia’s public schools and early childhood programs to prepare our future workforce, empowering and supporting educators, and building strong partnerships with families to expand opportunities for all learners, no matter where they live,” Conway said in a statement. “Throughout my tenure at the Virginia Department of Education, I have been inspired by the dedication of educators, stakeholders, and parents across the Commonwealth. While each voice is unique, a shared purpose unites us: we believe in our children and are determined to ensure every child has every opportunity to reach their fullest potential.”

The Spanberger release said she’s been “ensuring every child is prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Her leadership extends to overseeing special education, behavioral health and student safety, and adult education, with a steadfast commitment to supporting all learners regardless of ability, age or background”.

Over the past seven years, Conway has spearheaded Virginia’s efforts to strengthen its birth-to-five early childhood care and education system.

Andrews – a UVA graduate – served in the Office of Gov. Ralph Northam as a policy analyst and later as Deputy Policy Director.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as Deputy Secretary and honored to join Governor-elect Spanberger’s administration. The Governor-elect’s education plan recognizes the critical role that our education system and institutions of higher education play in expanding opportunity and preparing students for success,” Andrews said in a statement. “I look forward to collaborating with partners across the Commonwealth to ensure all Virginians have access to a world-class education.”

Andrews earned his undergraduate and Master of Public Policy degrees at UVA and is also a graduate of the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership, according to the release.

“Virginia parents and teachers deserve steady leadership that prioritizes the needs of students and ensures the Commonwealth’s next generation is prepared for long-term career success,” Spanberger said in a statement. “Ms. Conway and Mr. Andrews share my deep commitment to putting Virginia’s students first, attracting and retaining world-class educators, and making strong investments at every level of our education system. I’m proud to have them join my administration as we work to strengthen Virginia’s public schools across our Commonwealth.”