http://www.gscschools.org/gsc/Announcements/1-14-10%20%27To%20lead%20schools%2C%20Christie%20picks%20voucher%20advocate%27.html NY Times on Bret Schundler, January 14 NY TIMES - January 14, 2010 To Lead Schools, Christie Picks Voucher Advocate By DAVID M. HALBFINGER TRENTON — The man once described by teachers’ union leaders as “the antithesis of everything we hold sacred about public education” was chosen to serve as state education commissioner by Governor-elect Christopher J. Christie on Wednesday....The nomination of Bret D. Schundler to the post underscored the governor’s determination to press ahead with his push for school vouchers, more charter schools and merit pay for teachers. “We agree on the type of significant reform that needs to happen in our educational system here in New Jersey,” Mr. Christie said in making the announcement at the State House. “I want a strong, reasonable, bold leader who’s going to help me implement those policies.” Still, some of the ideas that made him a polarizing figure to unions and Democratic leaders have become more mainstream, with even President Obama signaling interest in merit pay and promoting the expansion of charter schools. On Wednesday, the teachers’ union issued a statement that refrained from criticizing the choice. His nomination — made as the Rev. Reginald Jackson, director of the Black Ministers Council, looked on approvingly — captivated New Jersey’s political class on Wednesday. “Wow! Are you serious?” Senator Raymond J. Lesniak of Elizabeth said when told of Mr. Schundler’s selection. Mr. Lesniak said he was thrilled.Mr. Lesniak, a Democrat who has broken with the powerful New Jersey Education Association in sponsoring a bill to create a pilot school-voucher program, said Mr. Schundler’s fate would depend largely on the three Democratic senators from Hudson County. The nominee’s name is submitted to those senators, as a formal courtesy, but they could break with custom and block it if they choose..."