By Howard Riedel
Albany, NY – One of the most visible figures in New York State's push to raise academic standards is stepping down. Carl Hayden, chancellor of the state Board of Regents, will leave the board after serving as its head for the past seven years.
During his tenure, the Regents have boosted high school graduation standards and have implemented a program for measuring the progress of school districts.
Speculation has already begun on his successor. The Buffalo News reports Robert Bennett of the Town of Tonawanda may be a candidate. He's been a Regent on the board for seven years.
Bennett retired as president of the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County a few months ago.