Lawmaker renews resignation call for Mo. ed chief

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A Missouri House member has renewed her call for state Education Commissioner Chris Nicastro to resign.

Democrat Genise Montecillo, of St. Louis, addressed Nicastro during a hearing of the House Budget Committee on Wednesday.

Nicastro has faced criticism over various issues in recent months, including the award of a contract to a consulting firm to draft a turnaround plan for unaccredited school districts.

Montecillo urged Nicastro to step down last year. On Wednesday, she said the commissioner's resignation would be the responsible thing to do for Missouri's children.

Nicastro responded that she has a history with urban schools and that her record speaks for herself. She said others can do her job as well but that she's not sure the state could find anyone more willing and committed.