Tom Vander Ark

Tom Vander Ark is a partner in Learn Capital, a private equity investor focusing on companies that improve educational engagement, access, and efficiency.  He is also a partner in Vander Ark/Ratcliff, a public affairs firm advocating for innovation and entrepreneurship in learning. Previously he served as President of the X PRIZE Foundation, which creates prizes that drive innovation.  Vander Ark also served as Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where he implemented $3.5 billion in scholarship and grant programs.   Vander Ark was the first business executive to serve as public school superintendent in Washington State.

Tom is chairman of the International Association of K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) and is a board director at several nonprofits including MLA Partner Schools and Strive for College. Tom advises Communities in Schools, ConnCan, Democrats for Education Reform, and National Association of Charter School Authorizers. He also blogs at EdReformer.com.