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Kessa Early
Kessa Early, EdD, brings 23 years of distinguished experience in education, transforming schools into award-winning institutions. As a principal of alternative education in California, she has successfully overseen multiple schools, each achieving remarkable success under her leadership.
Kessa Early
Kessa Early, EdD, brings 23 years of distinguished experience in education, with a proven track record of transforming schools into award-winning institutions. As a principal of alternative education in California, she has successfully overseen multiple schools, each achieving remarkable success under her leadership. At a continuation school, where 70 percent of students are identified as socioeconomically disadvantaged, Dr. Early spearheaded a transformation that saw attendance rates soar from 80 percent to an impressive 99.9 percent—all within her first year.
Her leadership also stabilized staff retention, shifting from annual turnovers to a dedicated team that has remained for over a decade. The school culture—often described as the “gold star” of the county—thrives on collaboration, clear goal-setting, formative assessments, data-driven instruction, robust intervention strategies, and successful enrichment programs, all of which contribute to significant student achievement gains.
Under Dr. Early’s guidance, the continuation school was twice recognized as a Model Continuation School for the state of California—and received the highest accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges three consecutive times. It has consistently ranked as a top-performing continuation school for over a decade. Additionally, NOVA Independent Study, a K–12 student-centered independent study program, earned the 2022 Pivotal Practice School award for the state of California.
Acknowledged through numerous accolades—including Outstanding High School Administrator in her county (2011), District III CCEA Administrator of the Year (2016), and ACSA Region 4 Administrator of the Year (2019)—Dr. Early’s commitment to student success is evident.
Dr. Early holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in psychology from Sonoma State University; a master’s degree and an administrative credential in educational administration from Sonoma State University; and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of California, Berkeley.
Transforming School Culture
Transforming School Culture experts will help you examine the assumptions, beliefs, expectations, and habits that comprise your school’s culture, to ensure a productive and functional environment. Work with our experts to develop the ability to properly respond to challenges and adversity.
