By: Richard L. Smith
Dr. Lily Laux has been appointed Acting Commissioner of Education in New Jersey following the departure of former Commissioner Kevin Dehmer.
According to a statement released by the New Jersey Department of Education, the appointment took effect at the close of business on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, when Kevin Dehmer officially stepped down from the role.
Dr. Laux was nominated by Mikie Sherrill to serve as Commissioner of Education and will lead the department in an acting capacity while awaiting confirmation by the New Jersey Senate.
In her new role, Laux said she plans to visit schools across the state to engage with educators and families and gain firsthand insight into classroom needs.
State officials said her priorities will include improving student achievement from early childhood through high school, strengthening literacy instruction, expanding access to high-impact tutoring, and addressing New Jersey’s ongoing teacher shortage.
The department said Laux will also focus on stabilizing and modernizing the state’s school funding formula, expanding access to preschool programs, supporting student mental health initiatives, and enhancing online safety for children.
Dr. Laux brings extensive education leadership experience to the position.
She began her career as a middle school teacher in Tennessee and most recently worked as a principal at ILO Group, where she partnered with state agencies and school districts on large-scale education initiatives.
She previously served as Deputy Commissioner at the Texas Education Agency, where she helped lead major school finance reforms and statewide literacy efforts.
Former Commissioner Dehmer, who has served in multiple education leadership roles over nearly two decades, has been appointed by Governor Sherrill as New Jersey’s next Chief Technology Officer. 
The State Board of Education formally recognized his service during its February 4 meeting.
Dr. Laux’s nomination will now proceed through the Senate Judiciary Committee before being considered by the full Senate for confirmation.