Kate Barnes
I’m a PhD candidate and Doctoral Academy Fellow in the Department of Education Reform at the University of Arkansas. I study school calendar reform—particularly the adoption of four-day school weeks—and how structural shifts in education impact students, teachers, and communities.
Through my work with the Office for Education Policy, I have partnered with Arkansas school districts to conduct applied research and translate findings into clear, valuable insights for decision-makers. My research has informed legislative conversations, been featured in the media, and presented at national conferences.
Before graduate school, I taught middle school math and science in Arkansas public schools. My teaching experience shapes how I approach policy questions—with a deep respect for those working in schools every day.
Thanks for stopping by and feel free to reach out with any questions!
Ph.D. in Education Policy, University of Arkansas
Expected 2025
M.S. in Educational Leadership, Arkansas State University
2019
B.A. in Environmental Studies, University of Tennessee
2014