As WestEd’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jannelle Kubinec brings over 24 years of experience transforming outcomes for children, youth, and their families through research, policy, and technical assistance. The past 12 years in various leadership roles at WestEd supporting growth, innovation, and impact. Prior to becoming WestEd’s CEO in October 2023, Jannelle served for 12 years in various leadership roles at WestEd that included leading major federally funded centers, driving major policy changes related to early learning and K-12 funding and accountability systems, and building and strengthening operational systems at WestEd.
She has dedicated her career to social and public good with experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. She is nationally recognized for her work related to school finance and effective resource allocation. Notable contributions include guiding California through a once in a generation redesign and transformation of its K-12 funding formula and accountability system and serving as principal architect and manager of a diverse team of researchers and policy experts to craft the California Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which has guided historic increases in funding, improved support for the workforce, and expansion plans to include all 4-year old children in Transitional Kindergarten.
She brings a deep commitment to WestEd’s mission to promote excellence, achieve equity, and improve learning and education and human development, motivated by experiences working alongside young children, teachers, and leaders.
She received her BA and Masters of Public of Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley.