A committee will begin reviewing applications for a new state education commissioner on May 9, the state Department of Education said Tuesday.

The position, which is being vacated by Andy Tompkins, has been advertised in newspapers and other publications since March 11.

The education department will appoint a committee, made of one person appointed by each state Board of Education member and one representative from the Department of Education, to review the applications.

Candidates will be interviewed during the third week of June, and the board will visit hometowns of the finalists during the fourth week of June.

Plans call for a new commissioner to be announced by the end of June and to start working Aug. 1.

The board will appoint an interim commissioner if needed.