LINCOLN, Neb. -- A top figure in Nebraska education is stepping down.

Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matthew Blomstedt announced Friday that he is leaving his post, effective January 3, 2023. He has served as the Commissioner of Education for almost nine years since being named on January 2, 2014.

The 50-year-old central Nebraska native indicated that he intends to take a consulting job at a firm within the next year.

“There are many things I am proud of in my nearly nine years of service to the State of Nebraska, but I am most proud of the opportunity to have served with so many dedicated board members, staff, and partners in this work over the years,” Blomstedt said.

He has been at the helm as schools dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic and as school boards came under fire by parents and political groups upset over curriculum and content in schools.

“Commissioner Blomstedt has been a champion for all students and families, and a great leader of the Department of Education,” said State Board President Patricia Koch-Johns. “During his tenure, our state has become a national leader in education, and he inspired us to work in the best interest of all Nebraskans. We wish him well and thank him for his service.”

Blomstedt announced his resignation three months in advance, saying he did so to give the State Board of Education time to start the process to find a successor. The commissioner is chosen by the elected Board of Education.