ExcelinEd
Cara Stillings Candal has extensive experience in education policy and research. Cara currently works as the Vice President of Policy at ExcelinEd, where they have held multiple roles since 2019, including Managing Director and Director of Educational Opportunity. Prior to that, they served as a Senior Research Fellow in Education Policy at the Pioneer Institute from 2010 to 2023. Cara also worked as a Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Education Reform from 2017 to 2018. Additionally, Cara has teaching experience as a Faculty Lecturer in Education Policy at Boston University from 2009 to 2016. Cara has also served as the Director of Research and Curriculum at the National Academy of Advanced Teacher Education (NAATE) from 2011 to 2014, where they focused on improving teacher effectiveness and leadership skills. Earlier in their career, they worked as a Test Development Specialist at Riverside Publishing from 2002 to 2005.
Cara Stillings Candal obtained their Master's degree in social science/anthropology from the University of Chicago, where they studied from 2001 to 2003. Cara further pursued higher education and received their Doctorate in Education Policy from Boston University, completing their studies from 2004 to 2009.
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ExcelinEd
At ExcelinEd, we focus on education equity and quality—both inside and outside of the traditional public education system. Through customized support for state policymakers, reformers, educators, parents and communities, we are cultivating policy conditions to advance student-centered education systems, state by state. Launched by former Florida Governor Jeb Bush in 2008, the Foundation for Excellence in Education (ExcelinEd) supports state leaders in transforming education to unlock opportunity and lifelong success for each and every child. From policy development to implementation, ExcelinEd brings deep expertise and experience to customize education solutions for each state’s unique needs. Focused on educational opportunity, innovation and quality, ExcelinEd’s agenda is increasing student learning, advancing equity and readying graduates for college and career.