Tara Kini serves as Chief of Policy and Programs at the Learning Policy Institute. In this role, she works in California and nationally to bring high-quality research to policymakers and the public to inform evidence-based policies that support empowering and equitable learning for every child. Her work includes issues related to the educator workforce; meeting the needs of the whole child; equitable school resources; college, career, and civic readiness; and early childhood education. 

Kini has more than two decades of experience working in public education as a civil rights attorney, classroom teacher, and teacher educator. Previously, she was a senior staff attorney with Public Advocates, where she represented community-based organizations, students, and parents in education impact litigation. Kini taught English and history for 6 years in Bay Area public schools and served as a faculty supervisor with the University of California, Berkeley teacher education program. 

Kini holds a JD from University of California, Berkeley School of Law; an MA in Education and teaching credential from the Stanford Teacher Education Program; and a BA from Stanford. She is a member of the State Bar of California.