Ruth Ryder is the Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Policy and Programs – Formula Grants in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) at the U.S. Department of Education.  OESE implements programs to support underserved students under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).  In this role, Ms. Ryder oversees a broad range of management, policy, and program functions related to formula and discretionary grant programs under the ESEA. 

During her time in OESE, Ms. Ryder has sought to improve coordination across ESEA programs, increase communication with State customers and partners, and advance evidence-based practices to improve results for underserved students.  In addition, Ms. Ryder is leading an effort to improve alignment of technical assistance both within OESE, as well as across the Department.  These efforts have resulted in improved ability to meet grantee needs and more importantly the needs of children and families.  Ms. Ryder was previously the Deputy Director of the Office of Special Education Programs in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, which she joined in 1988. In that position, she provided national leadership for moving special education accountability to a more results-oriented focus.