Bobbie Burnham Joins Perpich Board of Directors

Bobbie Burnham

July 23, 2021

Perpich Center for Arts Education is pleased to welcome Bobbie Burnham as an ex officio member of the Board of Directors. Burnham is Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Teaching and Learning of the Minnesota Department of Education.

As Assistant Commissioner, Bobbie Burnham oversees the divisions of Early Learning Services; Academic Standards, Instruction and Assessment; and Libraries and Out-of-School Time.

“As a former kindergarten teacher, I know how important it is to ensure students have opportunities to explore their artistic side as part of their learning journey. I strongly believe arts education is critical in helping children develop to their full potential,” said Burnham.

Bobbie’s skills and expertise focus on leveraging connections among early care and education programs and the K-12 system to create a comprehensive and inclusive early learning framework that spans birth through age 8. Bobbie has been committed to the implementation of innovative learning strategies and evidence-based practices as a teacher, coach, school administrator, and staff developer.

She started her career as a kindergarten teacher, worked with the Minnesota Center for Reading Research for eight years as a Reading First coordinator, and has been with MDE for over eight years. Bobbie holds a master’s degree in literacy education, a certificate in professional development, and a K-12 reading specialist licensure from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Burnham’s role on the Perpich Board of Directors is as a designee of the Commissioner of Education. The addition was recommended by the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor and authorized by the 2017 Education Omnibus Bill. The Board of Directors for Perpich Center for Arts Education manages the Perpich Center agency. The Board consists of 16 members, including the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education or the Commissioner’s designee, and 15 members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. At least one member must be appointed from each congressional district, and no member may serve for more than two consecutive terms.