As U.S. Commissioner of Education (1962–1965) he was instrumental in developing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and in overseeing enforcement of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the schools. In 1966, he became head of the General Learning Corporation.
As U.S. Commissioner of Education (1962–1965), he played a key role in developing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, and oversaw the enforcement of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 within schools. In 1966, he became head of General Learning Corporation.