Dennis Walcott one step closer to becoming next schools chancellor

Dennis Walcott is one step closer to being the city's next schools chancellor, as a screening panel Wednesday recommended passing the waiver that would let him step into the job.

Walcott, 59, now only needs approval from the state’s education commissioner, David Steiner, to take the job, which Mayor Michael Bloomberg appointed him to last Thursday after media exec Cathie Black was booted after a disastrous three months in the position.

"It was clear to the entire panel that Mr. Walcott is, in fact, exceptionally qualified for the position," said Marilyn Terranova, chair of the panel.

Walcott needs the waiver because he lacks a superintendent's license, which the chancellor needs. The panel said his previous experience makes up for it.