David D. Marsh
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David D. Marsh
Former Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Rossier School of Education,
University of Southern California
David D. Marsh served as associate dean for academic programs in the Rossier School of Education at the University of Southern California (USC). He held the Robert A. Naslund Chair of Curriculum and was a professor of curriculum theory while directing the Center for School Leadership and Transformation at USC. Marsh contributed to many California state education initiatives, serving on the California High School Task Force and co-chairing the California High School Exit Exam Task Force for the California Department of Education. Marsh earned his PhD in curriculum and instruction from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
updated 2025
Publications by David D. Marsh
Lessons from the California School Leadership Academy
American education reform stresses the importance of principals as instructional leaders, but most are not effective in this role. Research suggests that innovative administrator training is needed to transform the role of site administrators.…
This article examines whether state-level initiatives for school reform can improve local schools. California's comprehensive reform legislation, SB 813, aimed to alter curriculum and instruction in almost every school in the state. The effects of…
Study Findings
In 1983, California's Senate Bill 813 aimed to improve the education system by proposing a large number of reforms. However, it lacked a cohesive strategy and proven philosophy. The bill's impact on school districts and schools was unknown, and this…
Background and Technical Appendices
California's education system faced a decline in the early 1980s, prompting reforms such as a common core curriculum, higher graduation requirements, and tougher academic standards. A Nation at Risk report further pushed for nationwide school…