Pedro Martinez is the Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, becoming the state’s 25th commissioner on July 1, 2025. A nationally recognized, data-driven education leader, Martinez brings more than two decades of systems-level experience, including serving as CEO of Chicago Public Schools and superintendent of the San Antonio Independent School District. Throughout his career, he has focused on raising academic expectations, expanding opportunities for students, strengthening district performance, and advancing college, career, and civic readiness. He holds degrees from DePaul University and the University of Illinois and is the first Latino to serve as DESE commissioner. Fun fact: His very first job was working at McDonald’s.