Under Dr. Mackey’s leadership, Alabama has seen measurable progress across multiple education benchmarks. Between 2019 and 2024, Alabama ranked first in Math Recovery and third in Reading Recovery nationally. The state also posted the largest gain in 4th grade mathematics scores, rising to 32nd on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)—its highest ranking ever.
High school performance has also improved, with a 92% graduation rate and 88% College and Career Readiness Rate—the highest in state history. Alabama now ranks fifth in the nation in key areas such as Computer Science education, Financial Literacy, and the number of newly certified National Board Teachers (NBCTs). The state has also earned recognition as the top-ranked state for workforce development in the South-Central region
Dr. Mackey holds leadership positions on more than 30 boards and commissions, including serving as President of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). He is also an active member of the Southern Regional Education Board, Education Commission of the States, Jobs for America’s Graduates,Alabama Public School and College Authority,Retirement Systems of Alabama, Interstate Military Children’s Compact Commission, and the Alabama Germany Partnership, among others.