EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) released the following statement as State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala’s announced her retirement:

“As chair of Education, it has been an honor to work with Dr. Ayala to better the lives of students across Illinois. Her knowledge and passion for education and students showed through her work. Dr. Ayala overcame numerous trials and tribulations, consistently doing what was best for students.

Illinois saw a decade-high in the state’s graduation rate under her leadership.

“I’m proud to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Ayala and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.”