Linda Simensky, head of PBS Kids content, left the network Oct. 1.
Simensky became head of animation and scripted content for Duolingo Studios. Television Business International was first to report Simensky’s departure. Duolingo is a publicly traded language-learning company headquartered in Pittsburgh.
Simensky will report to Timothy Shey, Duolingo’s VP of studios and content. Shey told Fast Company in August that he’s “trying to make Sesame Street for grown-ups.”
Simensky joined PBS in 2003 after working in animated programming at Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon. She had also served as VP of children’s programming.
“Throughout her time at PBS, Linda has collaborated with renowned producers to develop award-winning, hit shows that have impacted the lives of millions of children,” said a PBS spokesperson in a statement to Current. “Her efforts to transform the PBS KIDS lineup over the past several years have helped to position public media as the standard bearer for excellence in children’s media. We are grateful for all that she has done and wish her well as she begins this next chapter.”