Search for education director down to 4

The search for a new commissioner to head up the state’s Education Department is moving ahead. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education began the search once Commissioner Bob Bartman announced his retirement in March. Department spokesman Jim Morris says Board members have narrowed the list of potential candidates to four. They hope to make an offer on the job before the end of September. Board member Kent King has been acting commissioner since July 1st, and is one of the four finalists.