Simonich: In Charge Of New Mexico Public Schools While Living In Philadelphia … A Touchy Subject msimonich@sfnewmexican.com Living in Philadelphia is a touchy subject if you’re in charge of the public schools in New Mexico. Ryan Stewart, Cabinet secretary of the Public Education Department, upset more than a few politicians, parents and grandparents last year when he worked remotely from Philadelphia for several months. Many wondered how he could guide New Mexico’s schools through a pandemic while he resided 1,900 miles away with his wife and son. Stewart returned to New Mexico in August, but the time he was gone is still an issue for legislators of both political parties.