Anthony DelMundo/News

Dennis Walcott talks to students as he visits his alma mater Francis Lewis High.

Mayor Bloomberg's pick to head the city school system just cleared his final hurdle after receiving a special waiver to serve from state Education Commissioner David Steiner.

Steiner signed off on Dennis Walcott's appointment as city schools chancellor a day after a panel unanimously found him "exceptionally qualified."

Walcott needed the waiver because he does not have a superintendent's license.

"Mr. Walcott has had a long and distinguished career as a leader in private not-for-profit organizations and in public service," Steiner wrote.

"Much of that leadership experience is education-related and demonstrates a deep knowledge of the New York City school system--its organization, governance, finances, politics, complexity and the challenges it faces."

Steiner cited the "depth and breadth" of Walcott's knowledge about the educational issues confronting the city school system.

He noted that the former deputy mayor is a graduate of the the city public school system and is a former kindergarten teacher.

Steiner also hailed Walcott's record of coalition-building in his professional career, and an expertise in policy analysis, and budgeting and fiscal accounting.

"There are many strengths in Mr. Walcott's leadership experience that would qualify him for school district leader certification in these challenging times."

"His resume is one of extraordinary accomplishment and demonstrates strong evidence of outstanding managerial skill in leading complex organizations," Steiner wrote.

klovett@nydailynews.com

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