ARLINGTON, Va. — yes. every kid. (Yes) today announced that Tom Newell, a former Oklahoma state representative, has joined the organization as its first vice president of government affairs.
As vice president of government affairs, Newell will help lead Yes’ government affairs team as it advocates for meaningful education policy solutions across the country, including creating greater access to education options and resources for families.
“Every child in our country deserves access to an educational experience that is as unique as they are,” said Newell. “I am excited to collaborate with policymakers across the country to implement bottom-up education approaches and provide innovative solutions to today’s education challenges. As a father and grandfather, I cannot imagine a more worthwhile cause; every kid deserves the best possible education, regardless of their family’s zip code or income.”
In 2010, Newell was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives where he served on the leadership team for the Oklahoma speaker of the House and on House committees including Children, Youth & Family Services; Higher Education & Career Tech; and Government Oversight & Accountability, which he chaired during the 2015 legislative session. Newell was recognized as an emerging leader by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Newell has also served as a senior fellow and government affairs director for the Foundation for Government Accountability, as CEO for Salt and Light Leadership Training (SALLT), and as an adjunct business and economics professor at Seminole State College.
“Tom’s extensive experience working with lawmakers to advance family-focused education solutions will make him an incredible asset to our team,” said Craig Hulse, executive director of yes. every kid. “I look forward to working alongside him as we build on and create new policy approaches that value the dignity and individuality of every student.”
