F. Chris Curran, Ph.D.
Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy
College of Education
School policies shape the daily experiences of millions of students, influencing not only how they learn but also how safe and supported they feel. F. Chris Curran’s research emphasizes improving those experiences, examining how education policies work in practice and how they can be redesigned to better serve students, teachers and schools.
Curran studies a range of K–12 education issues, including school safety, discipline and teacher labor markets. His work is grounded in the goal of linking research to real-world decision-making, ensuring that findings are not only rigorous but also useful for educators and policymakers. His research aims to translate research to practice, helping schools develop environments where all students can thrive.
A defining feature of Curran’s work is its direct impact. His research has informed policy discussions at the local, state and national levels, including providing testimony to policymakers and contributing to decisions that shape how schools operate. He has also worked closely with practitioners, helping to design tools and systems that schools can use in real time. One example is a statewide school safety data dashboard used by districts across Florida, offering educators and families a clearer picture of conditions in their schools.
This emphasis on practical application reflects a broader commitment to public impact, with Curran consistently working to ensure that his research translates into public impact and reaches the people who need it most, according to Corinne Huggins- Manley, director of the School of Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education. His work extends beyond academic journals to public-facing platforms, including media engagement and widely read commentary, bringing research findings into broader conversations about education.
Curran’s research also addresses emerging challenges in education. His recent work explores how new technologies, including artificial intelligence, shape student behavior and school discipline, as well as how data can be used to improve safety and accountability. These efforts reflect his broader focus on adapting education policy to a rapidly changing world.