Dr. Andrew T. Melin, former Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) of Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), became the next Executive Director of Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC) on December 16, 2019.
His appointment follows the retirement of Dr. Kevin Caress who has served as CIESC’s executive director since June of 2014. CIESC serves 27 school corporations across central Indiana, providing high-quality, innovative programs and services that improve student achievement and create efficiencies for members.
“The Governing Board has selected Dr. Melin due to his rich background in leading educational change in Indiana as a result of his experiences at the state level, as well as his role as a district superintendent in various Indiana school systems,” said Dr. Caress. “I am confident he will bring his enthusiasm and dedication to this new position for the continued improvement of student education in Indiana.”
Dr. Melin brings 37 years of education experience to his new position, 30 of those years in Indiana PK-12 education. At his most recent post as CIO at the IDOE, he was responsible for four divisions focused on workforce, leadership, licensing, and higher education educator preparation. Primary initiatives focused on STEM, computer science, work-based learning, employability skills, digital learning, teacher and superintendent leadership, and teacher attraction and retention.
Dr. Melin’s previous school district leadership experience includes serving as superintendent of Greater Clark County Schools, Valparaiso Community Schools, and Peru Community Schools. His work background also includes a number of other administrative roles including assistant superintendent, principal, assistant principal, dean of students, counselor, teacher, and coach.
“I am very excited about being CIESC’s next Executive Director. CIESC is doing great work serving central Indiana educators and students,” said Dr. Melin. “I look forward to serving and supporting our members.”
“Dr. Melin came from a very strong field of candidates to continue the leadership that Dr. Caress has provided CIESC for the past several years,” noted CIESC Board Chair Dr. Matt Prusiecki. “Dr. Melin’s vast experience as superintendent of several school districts throughout the state, as well as his role at the Department of Education as CIO provides a well-rounded skill set to continue the great progress that CIESC has distributed to its member school districts.”
Dr. Melin earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Indiana State University, a Master’s degree from St. Francis College, and a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University.
