As the new Deputy Secretary of Education, Dr. James Lane brings a unique perspective to the role. With a background in music and a career in education, Dr. Lane is well-equipped to tackle the challenges facing the education sector. We sat down with him to discuss his journey, his vision for education, and what he hopes to achieve in his new role.
Q: You’ve had a varied career, from musician to education leader. Can you tell us a bit about your background?
A: I’ve always had a passion for music and education. I studied music in college and went on to teach music in a public school. I realized that music education was just as important as any other subject, but it was often overlooked. That’s when I decided to pursue a career in education leadership to make a bigger impact.
Q: What inspired you to make the switch to education leadership?
A: My experience as a teacher made me realize that music education wasn’t just about teaching notes and chords, but about preparing students for life. It’s about developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. I realized that education is about empowering students to be successful, not just in academics, but in life.
Q: What do you hope to achieve in your new role as Deputy Secretary of Education?
A: I hope to bring a fresh perspective to the role and work towards ensuring that every student has access to high-quality education, regardless of their zip code or socio-economic background. I believe that education is a key to unlocking the potential of individuals and society as a whole.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing education today?
A: One of the biggest challenges is the persistence of inequality. Not every student has access to the same resources, nor do they have the same opportunities. We need to work towards creating a more equitable education system that supports every student.
Q: What’s your vision for the future of education?
A: I believe that the future of education is personalized, competency-based, and technology-driven. We need to tailor education to the individual needs of each student, allowing them to learn at their own pace. Technology can help us do this, but it’s not a replacement for human interaction. We need to find a balance between technology and human connection.
Q: What advice would you give to educators?
A: I would say that educators should be passionate about what they do, and not be afraid to think outside the box. Be open to new ideas and willing to try new approaches. Most importantly, remember that every student has a unique story and deserves to be heard.
