Steve Dackin

Preparing students for success means understanding the connections between the classroom, real-world experiences, and the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed for a bright future. With more than 40 years working in multiple educational settings, Stephen D. Dackin has extensive experience in state education policy, instructional leadership, postsecondary education, and workforce readiness.

Director Dackin’s career has been guided by a personal focus to work in service to children and families. Prior to being appointed director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Director Dackin held roles as a classroom educator, school and district leader, and served at the former Ohio Department of Education, the State Board of Education, and in higher education.

At the local level, Director Dackin worked in central Ohio school districts to advance achievement opportunities for all students. During his time in Reynoldsburg City Schools, he worked as a high school principal, assistant superintendent, and the district superintendent. Under his leadership, the district markedly improved student performance, including performance among minority and economically disadvantaged students.  During his tenure, the district developed one of the nation’s largest science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs, which served more than a third of the district’s students.  

Director Dackin understands the challenges and opportunities our young people and their parents and guardians face in effectively navigating the educational and workforce systems. He brought this expertise to his position as superintendent of school and community partnerships for Columbus State Community College. He bolstered initiatives to grow a number of Columbus State Community College partnerships including a regional strategy initiative focused on a goal that 60% of central Ohio adults hold postsecondary degrees or credentials by 2025. He continues to elevate the role partnerships play in achieving statewide goals, and is a member of several education, community, and workforce boards.

Education is part of the fabric of the Dackin family. Director Dackin’s wife, Susan, is a retired educator and they are the proud parents of two daughters, one of whom is an educator and the other an attorney. Director Dackin enjoys golfing, cycling and spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.