Chrisanne Gayl is an education leader with over twenty years of policy experience at the federal, state, and local levels. Serving as one of Trust for Learning’s co-directors and Chief Strategy and Policy Officer, Chrisanne uses her knowledge and experience to guide the organization’s grant-making efforts and lead its national policy strategy to accelerate access to ideal learning programs. Prior to joining the Trust, Chrisanne served as a Senior Policy Advisor at the U.S. Department of Education, where she was responsible for developing new policies and programs to expand high-quality learning opportunities for the nation’s children. She played a key role in the Obama Administration’s focus on universal preschool and supported efforts to strengthen social emotional learning throughout the early grades. Chrisanne has also worked as the Director of Federal Programs for the National School Boards Association representing the interests of local school districts, and as an education advisor to the governor of California. She has testified in front of Congress and has authored numerous publications. Chrisanne holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Georgetown University and received her undergraduate degree from Colby College in Waterville, Maine. Chrisanne is deeply committed to strengthening public education for all children and is a mother of two teenage boys who attend local public schools. She lives in Alexandria, VA with her family.
