ABOUT DAVID

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With almost THREE DECADES experience working with schools and school districts at the state education agency level David Cook, CEO of Learning Ecosystems Design, is an expert on what it takes to make change happen in education systems. In particular, he thrives in the space of helping systems shift to an ecosystem culture with an asset mindset rather than a deficit one. He has done this by navigating the waters of every possible political current and led major efforts to create innovative learning ecosystems. David is s a nationally respected voice in the transformation conversation. He recently retired from the state agency level after 14 years as Director of Innovative Learning for the Kentucky Department of Education. During his tenure he:

• Authored Kentucky's award-winning Education Recovery Program (2010).
• Designed and implemented the longest continuously operating statewide remote learning system in the country, Kentucky's Non-Traditional Instruction Program (2011),
• Co-authored and implemented the first district level innovation zone program in the country, Kentucky's Districts of Innovation Program (2013). 
• Has authored and co-authored numerous pieces of legislation and Kentucky Board of Education administrative regulation. 
• Directed Kentucky's development of a competency-based education system including the initial efforts in developing a Portrait of a Learner
• Oversaw a statewide initiative to shift assessment, accountability and the credentialing of learning from a one size fits all state level approach, to one where communities have a greater say in what learners are held accountable for, how they are measured on mastery and where and when the credentialing of learning takes place.  

In addition, David is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and has, with other Gallup ® Certified Strengths Coaches, developed a model to assist school systems in creating a "strengths-based culture".