David M. Toston, Sr.
Senior Advisor, Strategic Initiatives
California Collaborative for Educational Excellence
David M. Toston, Sr., is a Senior Advisor at the CCEE. In this role, David leads programs assisting local educational agencies through collaboration with the California Department of Education and the State Board of Education to improve educational outcomes. At CCEE, his responsibilities encompass the state-wide system of support, program evaluations, community engagement initiative, 21 CSLA, literacy initiatives, internal operations, and direct technical assistance. Before joining CCEE, David held executive positions at large complex public agencies in Washington State and California. He brings experience in organizational and instructional leadership, policy formulation for underserved learners, and systemic improvement. During his time in California, he has supported small rural communities, oversaw a 450-member consortium of charter schools, and launched the System Improvement Leads and Supporting Inclusive Practices programs. Recognized for his expertise and communication skills, David has contributed to numerous state committees and professional organizations. As chair of a statewide nonprofit organization, he led the strategic planning and advocacy for increased funding and policies for students with disabilities. He has been appointed to roles by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. In 2017, the State Senate appointed him to the Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE), and was elected to Chair ACSE in 2023. David has completed School Leadership and School Psychology graduate programs and holds advanced certifications in leadership, school finance, continuous improvement, and family engagement. He is currently working towards his doctoral degree in organizational leadership at the University of La Verne.
