On Tuesday, March 23, 2016, David L. Dunn, Executive Director of the Texas Charter Schools Association led a class on public policy making at the University of Texas.  The class, comprised of about 15 undergraduates, is part of the Plan II Honors and Urban Studies program within the College of Liberal Arts.

At the invitation of Jill Kolasinkski, founder of KIPP Austin, Dunn led an interactive discussion with students on the components of public policy including identifying desired outcomes, meaningful data, and the drivers to achieve outcomes.  As part of his lesson, Dunn focused on the policies behind the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law, as well as a discussion on school choice.  He emphasized that both standards-based accountability and relevant data are necessary to equip parents in making informed choices.  This resonates with many of the students who mentor students at KIPP Austin as part of their course work. 

“I love teaching and engaging with bright young minds,” Dunn commented. 

Dunn also occasionally serves as a guest lecturer to students at the University of Texas’ LBJ Graduate Public Affairs School.  This includes courses for professionals who are working on their Masters of Public Administration.  

Dunn has more than 30 years of experience in policy making to draw from in both K-12 and postsecondary education, and currently serves as the lead authority on charter schools in Texas.  Prior to this, Dunn was the Chief of Staff to the U.S. Secretary of Education and led efforts to implement NCLB, as well as managed a federal agency of more than 4,000 employees.  He was also a Special Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy at the White House advising on all education policy matters.  Dunn was the Associate Executive Director and chief lobbyist of the Texas Association of School Boards conducting education and fiscal policy analysis for the state of Texas.