Jon Becker is co-founder of VER. He is an assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University where he teaches school law and educational research methods. From 2002 to 2007, Jon was an assistant professor in the Department of Foundations, Leadership and Policy Studies at Hofstra University. Prior to beginning his professorial career, he served as Research Director at Interactive, Inc., an educational research and consulting company, where he directed and was involved in a number of research projects focused on the achievement and equity effects of educational technology. Jon earned a Ph.D. in the Politics of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. He received a law degree and masters degree in curriculum and instruction from Boston College and graduated cum laude from Duke University with a B.A. in Public Policy Studies. Email: jbecker@virginiaedreport.org

Chad Ratliff is co-founder of VER. He has broad experience across the education sector, including consulting and was honored for his work as a teacher and coach in one of Virginia’s most high-poverty school districts. He was also recognized for his efforts in business and as a private sector entrepreneur before returning to education as a school district administrator. He serves on the board of directors for several nonprofits and is an appointee to a Virginia Board of Education advisory committee. He has been quoted on educational matters in TIME, The Washington Post, Converge, T.H.E. Journal and other national media. Chad also teaches undergraduate courses in Social Entrepreneurship and Business. He holds a masters degree from the University of Virginia’s Curry School of Education and an MBA from Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business. Email: cratliff@virginiaedreport.org

 

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