Mark Balch

Mark Balch has dedicated 29 years to education, with 23 years serving in various administrative roles. His career has focused on enhancing student well-being, academic achievement, and social-emotional growth. Mark has created environments where students and educators can thrive by fostering community engagement and promoting instructional change.

Leadership Role in the Kern High School District

In 2023, Mark was appointed Director of New Teacher and Migrant Support at the Kern High School District (KHSD) in Bakersfield, California. KHSD is the state’s largest K-12 district, with more than 43,000 students. In this role, Mark has been instrumental in leading programs supporting new teachers and migrant students. His efforts have significantly impacted the district, helping ensure that students and teachers have the resources and guidance they need to succeed.

Academic Background and Early Career

Mark earned his doctorate in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne, a master’s in Educational Administration from California State University, Bakersfield, and a bachelor’s degree in History from The Master’s College in Newhall. With a strong academic foundation, Mark transitioned from teaching roles at Highland High School and Fruitvale Junior High School into educational administration, where he broadened his influence and drove positive changes.

Key Achievements at KHSD

Under Mark’s leadership, the Kern High Teacher Residency program, collaborating with CSU Bakersfield, has grown significantly. By 2024-2025, the program will include 40 teachers and 40 mentors, making it one of the largest in California. This expansion demonstrates Mark’s ability to foster teacher development and retention.

Mark also played a key role in the success of the Migrant Support program. With a graduation rate exceeding 98%, the program serves more than 200 students and their families through biweekly Saturday academies. This initiative has made a lasting difference in the lives of migrant students and their families, helping them overcome challenges and succeed academically.

Previous Experience in School Leadership

Before his role at KHSD, Mark was principal at North High School in Bakersfield, where he served for nearly eight years. During his tenure, Mark developed a career-based pathway program that included one of California's first high school aviation programs. He also worked closely with local community leaders to create opportunities for students in a high-poverty area.

Mark’s leadership at North High School led to the implementation of data-driven decision-making, which earned the school a Platinum Award from the California Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Commission in 2022. His efforts were also recognized with the 2018 Regional Star Administrator award from the California Future Farmers of America (FFA).

Administrative Experience and District-Wide Impact

In addition to his work as principal, Mark G. Balch, Ed.D., served as Instructional Services Director at KHSD from 2011 to 2015. In this role, he focused on district-wide training for assistant principals and aligning instructional practices across schools. He also worked to improve the district’s reclassification rate for English Learners, achieving a 12% increase in student reclassification.

During this time, Mark helped expand the AVID program, which focused on preparing students for college and career success. His work in instructional design, professional development, and assessment practices helped improve the overall quality of education within the district.

Community Engagement and Volunteering

Mark’s dedication to service extends beyond his professional life. For the past seven years, he has volunteered with City Serve Bakersfield, which supports migrant families in the community. He is also a table leader in the Armor Up men’s ministry and is involved in various leadership and service teams at Canyon Hills Assembly of God in Bakersfield.

Additionally, Mark was a founding member of the Oildale Community Action Team, working to improve the quality of life and reduce poverty in the area. His commitment to service also includes his involvement with the Bakersfield Rotary and Lions Club, where he has promoted leadership and ethics within the business community.

A Legacy of Positive Impact

Mark Balch’s career reflects a strong commitment to education and community service. Through his leadership in the Kern High School District and his broader community involvement, Mark has made a significant and lasting impact on the lives of students, educators, and families. His efforts to improve educational opportunities and support students in need continue to shape the future of education in his community. Mark remains dedicated to creating positive change and ensuring that all students have access to the opportunities they deserve.