School Reform in California: What Is It, How Is It Going, and Why?

Learn about the design and implementation of California State school reform since 2011.

The President of the California State Board of Education, Michael Kirst, will provide an overview of California State school reform. Using guiding words like patience, persistence, and humility, California systematically approached reform by aligning policies into a coherent framework supported by a broad political coalition. The result is seven years of sustained reform and continuous improvement.

In addition to being the President of the California State Board of Education, Mike Kirst is also Stanford Emeritus Professor of Education (and Business Administration by courtesy) Affiliated Faculty, Political Science.

A prolific writer, Dr. Kirst has authored ten books, including The Political Dynamics of American Education (2005). As a policy generalist, Professor Kirst has published articles on school finance politics, curriculum politics, intergovernmental relations, as well as education reform policies.

His recent book, From High School to College (2004), concerns improving student preparation for success in postsecondary education.

Dr. Kirst received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, his M.P.A. in government and economics from Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard.

Click here to watch a video of Dr. Kirst's talk.