Nebraska Department of Education
Dr. Matthew Blomstedt was named Commissioner of Education by the Nebraska State Board of Education on January 2, 2014.
Dr. Blomstedt led the successful development and implementation of a comprehensive state accountability system, AQuESTT, and positioned Nebraska to meet new federal requirements under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
AQuESTT ― Accountability for a Quality Education System, Today and Tomorrow ― is Nebraska’s next-generation accountability system. AQuESTT goes beyond test scores and graduation rates to classify schools and districts under a system that provides critical information for continuous school improvement. This forward-thinking system is expected to position Nebraska to not only meet new federal guidelines but to also empower the state’s excellent schools to become even better while helping schools needing improvement. AQuESTT’s goal is to provide the data and information needed to strengthen school and district support of student learning by focusing on every student every day. AQuESTT has earned the support of Nebraska educators, state education policy leaders and the State Board of Education.
To further develop and focus on improvement efforts, Dr. Blomstedt and the State Board of Education, jointly initiated a comprehensive strategic plan to guide their student-focused work and that of the Nebraska Department of Education.
Dr. Blomstedt serves on several boards and commissions in Nebraska. He was appointed to the national Board of Directors of the Council of Chief State School Officers in December 2017.
Dr. Blomstedt is a native Nebraskan whose career focuses on local, regional and statewide education issues. Blomstedt’s experience includes education finance and organization, assessment and accountability, professional development, and the development of systems to enhance blended and distance learning opportunities across the state.
Dr. Blomstedt earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Higher Education and a Master’s Degree in Community and Regional Planning from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.