McKenzie Snow

Gov. Kim Reynolds appointed McKenzie Snow to lead the Iowa Department of Education beginning June 26, 2023. Director Snow is committed to ensuring all children have access to a high-quality education that inspires them and prepares them for the future. As director, her work is grounded in high-quality teaching and learning, family and teacher empowerment, evidence-based innovation, college and career pathways, transparency and student-centered funding and supports. She is a national education leader and dedicated public servant who has served students in the classroom, two states, and the federal government. Prior to serving as Virginia Deputy Secretary of Education over early childhood education through postsecondary pathways, she was confirmed and served as New Hampshire Division Director of Academics and Assessment, Special Education, Career Development, Adult Education, Wellness, and Nutrition. Director Snow has also served in the federal government as a Special Assistant to the President at the White House Domestic Policy Council, Senior Advisor at the Office of Management and Budget, and Policy Director at the U.S. Department of Education. In the classroom, Director Snow taught remedial courses at the University of the Free State in South Africa. She has been named a Fulbright grantee, Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar, and Bush Institute and Clinton Foundation Presidential Leadership Scholar. She is a proud fifth-generation Midwesterner.