Former Sandoval adviser seeks top education post

A former senior adviser to Gov. Brian Sandoval is applying for Nevada’s top education job.

The Las Vegas Sun reports that Dale Erquiaga submitted his application for superintendent of public instruction.

Erquiaga resigned from the Sandoval administration in May 2012. He moved to Arizona to be near his children.

He was Sandoval’s chief policy director between November 2010 and June 2012. Before that he was director of government affairs, public policy and strategic planning for the Clark County School District.

The state Board of Education is in the process of replacing James Guthrie, who resigned abruptly in March.

Interim superintendent Rorie Fitzpatrick reportedly is also interested in the position.

Applicants face a Friday deadline.