The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) has announced the addition of Max Eden and James Paul to its education policy team. Both are recognized figures in the field of education reform, bringing extensive experience in research, policy development, and implementation.
Max Eden will serve as Director of Federal Education Policy at AFPI. He previously worked on the Domestic Policy Council in the White House and has over ten years of experience in education research and policy. In his new role, Eden is expected to focus on federal-level reforms that include efforts to reduce the influence of the U.S. Department of Education and promote policies that give more control to states and parents.
James Paul joins AFPI as Director of State Education Policy. Paul was the first Executive Director of the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board and has conducted academic research on topics such as school choice, parental rights, and diversity programs in schools. His work at AFPI will center on advancing state-level initiatives that increase educational options for families.
“AFPI is laser-focused on restoring excellence and liberty to America’s education system,” said Erika Donalds, AFPI Chair of Education Opportunity. “With Max and James, we’re adding two warriors for education opportunity and academic excellence—leaders who understand both the policy battlefield and the power of parents. We’re not just ready to reform the system—we’re ready to rebuild it for the people it serves: American families.”
Eden described his motivation for joining AFPI: “President Trump’s vision for education—rooted in parental empowerment and educational excellence—is the foundation of a new Golden Age. After serving in his White House, I am honored to join AFPI and work alongside champions like Linda McMahon, Erika Donalds, and others to put parents back in charge and education back where it belongs: in the hands of the people.”
Paul also expressed enthusiasm about his new position: “I’m honored to join the America First Policy Institute and build on the many successes AFPI has made to empower parents with educational options that reflect their values. I look forward to advancing policies that expand educational freedom, shifting power away from bureaucracies and toward families.”
According to AFPI, these appointments reinforce its leadership role in shaping national discussions around education reform by advocating for policies focused on parental empowerment and student outcomes.
