Technical Assistance

How can policymakers and other leaders in education and related fields know whether a proposed policy or strategy is likely to result in the desired outcomes? How can they find out what others are doing to address challenges similar to the ones they face in their own locale?WestEd's researchers provide policymakers and other leaders at the national, state, district, and local levels with the information, analysis, and other support they need in order to make well-informed decisions.

Providing Leaders with Trustworthy Information from a Nonpartisan Partner

WestEd staff bring the best knowledge from research and practice to bear on key policy issues so clients can thoughtfully consider the potential impacts of different choices they might make and can understand what decisions are most likely to yield positive results — and why. In doing so, WestEd:

• Distills and shares relevant research findings
• Conducts scans of policy or practice
• Carries out regional or state-specific studies on key topics of interest
• Analyzes current or pending legislation

WestEd staff respond to direct requests from federal, state, and local policymakers and leaders, including state legislators and legislative staff, as well as state education agencies and other state agencies. Other education stakeholders include:

• School boards
• Governors and gubernatorial staff
• Officials at institutions of higher education
• Foundations
• District leaders
• Regional consortia
• Business roundtables

Given the range of requests received and the scope and relative immediacy of the needs they represent, our staff are prepared to deliver its findings in any of a variety of formats— from basic data tabulations and internal memoranda to more formal reports and presentations.

Convening Policy Leaders

WestEd staff organize one- and two-day conferences, symposia, and group meetings around key policy topics, allowing leaders to learn together about research and best practice. We also convene and support longer-term learning communities for local leaders (e.g., elected officials, business leaders) who are committed to understanding the common education challenges experienced in their locales and to working with their school districts to tackle those challenges over an extended period. One example of this work is the statewide Arizona Mayors Education Roundtable, whose members work in partnership with their local school district to lower dropout rates. Because our policy services are customized to fit the needs and goals of the client, cost varies. Use the form below to let us know what you need, and we will get back to you.