What state was the first to organize a state board of education?

Answer 1

Massachusetts under the leadership of Horace Mann in 1837.

Further Info

Horace Mann was only Secretary of the board in 1837 and had little power. He stayed in the position until 1848 when he ran for congress.

Answer 2

In 1812 New York became the first state to appoint a state superintendent, Gideon Hawley. His tenure in office was filled with such controversy that in 1812 he was removed from office and the position was abolished and not recreated until 1854.

--Foundations of American Education, 7th ed.