Dr. Herrera to Head Kern Regional K-16 Education Collaborative

Dr. Krista Herrera was named executive director of the newly formed Kern Regional K-16 Education Collaborative, a partnership between Kern County Superintendent Of Schools, institutes of higher education including the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium and business partners to significantly expand Kern County’s workforce development efforts.

Dr. Krista Herrera
Kern K-16 Regional Collaborative

Dr. Herrera, who was also appointed administrator of Instructional Services by KSOS Superintendent Mary C. Barlow, will provide leadership for the implementation of over $18 million in state funds awarded to Kern.

The grant is aimed at improving student progress from high school to postsecondary education and ultimately into the Kern County workforce.

The Kern Collaborative will support numerous efforts that will streamline pathways in three occupational areas, including healthcare, education and engineering/computing. The initiative will focus on first-generation college students, those from low- income families and students of color to improve preparation for college and career access and success.

CVHEC is a partner in the collaborative with its $1.7 million project, the CVHEC/Kern Dual Enrollment Teacher Up-skilling Program for English and Mathematics, to provide master’s degrees for up to 96 South Valley high school teachers that achieves state qualifications for teaching community college dual enrollment English and math courses on a high school campus.

In addition to the Kern Collaborative, Dr. Herrera will provide oversight for several instructional programs within KCSOS, including the development of the statewide High Quality Online Instructional Materials initiative and the district’s equity work, including the annual Equity Symposium.

“We look forward to the success of this initiative under Krista’s capable leadership,” said Lisa Gilbert, deputy superintendent of KSOS Instructional Services.

Dr. Herrera brings nearly 15 years of experience working in education including the past four years serving as administrator of Professional Learning & Student Support for KCSOS. She earned degrees at San Diego State University, Point Loma Nazarene University and the University of LaVerne. Among her professional affiliations is serving as facilitator and coach for the California Coalition Dedicated to Dual Enrollment (CCEMC).

SEE:

CVHEC Master’s Upskilling Program press release