Director, California Department of Education – Expanded Learning Division

Michael Funk, Director of the Expanded Learning Division for the California Department of Education, led the development of “A Vision for Expanded Learning in California, Strategic Plan 1.0: 2014–2016” which resulted in numerous successes in embedding quality, systems, and technical assistance to support programs and elevate expanded learning as a key partner in the K–12 education system. The plan created a California statewide system of support. Michael led the second iteration, “A Vision for Expanded Learning in California, Strategic Plan 2.0: 2019–2023”, to sustain California’s momentum and innovative path to support quality expanded learning programs across the State. Through the Compassionate Systems Framework, the System of Support for Expanded Learning works with the Center for Systems Awareness to support staff and students. One of the many passionate reasons Michael joined the CAN Leadership Team is to see that California’s Expanded Learning Programs be an integral part of young people’s education, engaging them in year-round learning opportunities that prepare them for college, career, and life.