The four pillars of his educational agenda included Academic Recovery and Excellence, Improving Conditions for Educators and Mental Health, Global Competitiveness, and College Affordability and Accessibility.

Cardona led the successful reopening of America’s schools after a pandemic, oversaw the efficient distribution of $190 billion dollars to accelerate academic recovery and mental health support, led unprecedented federal efforts to transform the country's student loan system which resulted in greater accountability in higher education and over $185 billion dollars in debt relief to 5 million Americans.

Under Cardona’s leadership, the United States saw the greatest one-year growth in reading achievement for lower performing students since 2009. It also an increase from zero to 48 states initiating to pay student teachers while they learn through apprenticeships, an additional 16,000 school counselors and mental health experts, and over 1 million public servants earning debt relief.

Federal Student Aid (FSA) awarded Federal College Grants to 10% more students in 2024 compared to the previous year due to a transformational overhaul of FSA, the first in over 40 years. More students in America have affordable access to college and career pathways due to the efforts under Secretary Cardona’s leadership.

Prior to becoming U. S. Secretary of Education, Secretary Cardona served as the Commissioner of Education in Connecticut, District Leader in CT, University Instructor, National Award-winning School Principal, and classroom teacher. Secretary Cardona's approach to leadership, at the local, state, federal, and international level, has been grounded in intentional collaboration and lifted by a bold vision for improvement from Pre-Kindergarten through college, to adult learning. His work has sought collaboration from local leaders, Governors, Philanthropists, Entertainers and artists, Industry executives, and International Leaders.

A first-generation college student who celebrates bilingualism and biculturalism as a superpower, Secretary Cardona’s story embodies the American dream and the power of public education. Through an acknowledgement of how arts and culture have shaped his accession to the highest education position in the country, Secretary Cardona prides himself in staying true to his passion and values, from the Barrio to the Briefing Room.

Secretary Cardona earned a bachelor's degree from Central Connecticut State University, a master's degree, two additional advanced leadership certifications, and a doctoral degree from the University of Connecticut. His greatest source of pride is his family. Secretary Cardona and his beautiful wife Marissa, also an educator, are the proud parents of two children in college. Read Less ^