Gov.-elect Tom Wolf picks Lancaster schools superintendent, ex-lawmaker for cabinet posts

Gov.-elect Tom Wolf has named Lancaster school Superintendent Pedro Rivera as his choice for secretary of the Department of Education and former state lawmaker Kathy Manderino to become secretary of the Department of Labor and Industry.

Rivera "has greatly improved student performances and college readiness, as well as the district's finances," Wolf said Monday. He said Rivera is nationally recognized for his work on urban education and implemented a community schools model that breaks down barriers to students' success.

"Pennsylvania schools are struggling. My top priority is making sure our schools have the resources to teach our children the skills they need to succeed," Wolf said.

Former Gov. Ed Rendell also tapped a head of the Lancaster district, Vicky Phillips, as his first pick to head the education department.

Manderino is a former House member representing Philadelphia, and her father was Democratic House floor leader in the 1980s. She also served as senior vice president at Intercommunity Action Inc., a human services agency, and is currently campaign manager for the Campaign for Fair Education Funding.

Wolf said Manderino would work with him "to reduce unemployment, provide adequate job training and improve Pennsylvania's economic development and business climate." He said the state's job training programs "need to be improved so we are providing people with the necessary skills to find sustainable, long-term employment."

Both nominations will require approval by the state Senate.