Published: May 03, 2008 12:40 am      

Reed will not seek 5th term; Bennett only republican in race so far

After four terms in office as Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction, Suellen Reed has decided not to pursue a fifth term.

That clears the way for Greater Clark County Schools Superintendent Tony Bennett to win the Republican nomination, if no other candidates file before the May 18 deadline.

Bennett announced earlier this year he was seeking the position.

When asked for comment, Bennett referred calls to his campaign, which released this statement: “Dr. Suellen Reed is a thoughtful and dedicated public servant. She has served Indiana’s children not only in her four terms as Superintendent of Public Instruction, but also as a teacher and administrator. As a superintendent, I appreciate her leadership and wish her well in her future endeavors.”

His campaign also said they have not heard of any Democrats or Republicans who plan to file for the race. The nomination will be made June 2.