(1) The commissioner of education shall be the chief state school officer. He or she shall possess the professional qualifications determined by the Kentucky Board of Education as appropriate for the office.
(2) The commissioner shall:
(a) Be appointed or reappointed by the Kentucky Board of Education, subject to Senate confirmation in accordance with KRS 11.160;
(b) Serve for a term not to exceed four (4) years, unless removed by the Kentucky Board of Education; and (c) Receive compensation as set by the board, the provisions of KRS 64.640 notwithstanding.
(3) The commissioner of education shall be the executive and administrative officer of the Kentucky Board of Education in its administration of all educational matters and functions placed under its management and control. He or she shall carry out all duties assigned to him or her by law; shall execute under the direction of the state board the educational policies, orders, directives, and administrative functions of the board; and shall direct the work of all persons employed in the Department of Education.
(4) The commissioner of education shall be reimbursed for all actual and necessary traveling expenses incurred by him or her in the performance of his or her duties.