Overview
Mitch Herz is a national expert in school accountability system design and implementation with a focus on strengthening data systems that can drive school improvement and improved student outcomes. Herz helps states and districts create relevant, meaningful, and coherent accountability systems that communicate key information about student outcomes.
In his current role, Herz provides technical assistance to state education agencies in developing, implementing, and revising statewide accountability systems. In conjunction with fellow WestEd researchers, Herz also assists states in conducting research and program evaluation on the effectiveness of school improvement resources and strategies.
Before joining WestEd, Herz served as Director of Accountability for the New Mexico Public Education Department. He also served as a program evaluator and policy analyst for the New Mexico Legislative Education Study Committee. The central focus throughout his career has been helping leaders at the state, district, and school levels use data to improve processes and systems that directly impact student learning.
Education
- MPP in public policy, University of Michigan
- MUP in urban and regional planning, University of Michigan
- BA in psychology, Grinnell College
Select Publications
Herz, M., & Wylen, M. (2025). Learnings from state-level school accountability system innovations under ESSA. WestEd.
Herz, M., & Crane, E. W. (2024). Focusing the conversation: Developing and using guiding principles to strengthen school accountability systems [Webinar]. WestEd. https://www.wested.org/event/focusing-the-conversation/
Herz, M. P., Johnson, L. L., & Crane, E. W. (2023). Accountability for postsecondary readiness: A 50-state analysis. Region 15 Comprehensive Center at WestEd. https://www.wested.org/resource/accountability-for-postsecondary-readiness-a-50-state-analysis/