The state board of education has completed its interview process and is now ready to choose from among three candidates vying for the position of Commissioner of Education. Acting Commissioner Kent King is among the finalists. He’s joined by Jere Hochman, Superintendent of Schools in Parkway, near St. Louis, and Dennis Bartels of San Francisco. There had been a fourth finalist from New York state. However, he has asked that he no longer be considered for the post. A final decision on the new commissioner is expected at the Board’s meeting three weeks from today.