Kate Barnes, Ph.D.
I'm a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Education Research Center housed in the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University.
My work focuses on various topics in public education, with a particular emphasis on school calendar reform—especially the adoption of four-day school weeks—and how these structural shifts impact students, teachers, and communities.
I'm dedicated to conducting applied, empirically rigorous research and translating those findings into clear, valuable insights for practitioners and decision-makers. My research has informed legislative conversations, been featured in the media, and presented at national conferences.
Before joining Texas A&M, I earned my PhD in Education Policy at the University of Arkansas, my MS in Educational Leadership at Arkansas State University, and my BA in Sustainability and Environmental Studies from the University of Tennessee. I am a former public school teacher. My teaching experience shapes how I approach research 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!