Karen DeWitt

Jean-Claude Brizard came straight from the airport to the WXXI studios this morning.

After asking him about the many challenges he faces taking over as Superintendent of the Rochester City School District, I asked him what he thinks the district's strengths are.

He talked about the outpouring of support he's getting from all corners - not just from people in the city, but from state representatives, suburban leaders, and local universities. Brizard says that's a good sign change can happen here.

While I was talking to Brizard, WXXI Capitol Bureau Correspondent Karen DeWitt was in Albany interviewing Governor Spitzer. She says he was more introspective than usual. We'll find out what she means on Friday.

"Today is the day when all of that changes - when we stop standing still and start moving forward once more." - Eliot Spitzer, Monday, January 1, 2007

A year and a day after Eliot Spitzer was sworn in as New York Governor, Jean Claude Brizard will take over as Rochester City School District Superintendent.

I was in Albany when Spitzer declared his first day on the job as one of "unbridled hope and possibility." I was there as he made his symbolic ascent to the top of the Capitol steps and - I kid you not - the thick clouds parted briefly for the sun to shine upon him. I was there to capture the optimism in the air.

But today, another gloomy Monday, the Siena Research Institute released a poll suggesting Spitzer's performance is falling far short of most expectations.