about the project

WestEd's Policy Center regularly conducts analyses of current issues, trends, and legislation on behalf of education stakeholders in the region. Often building upon recent survey results or the most current state and local data, the resulting materials update stakeholders with concrete findings and policy implications.

A recent example of this work is the Policy Center's synthesis of several key 2007 research reports on California K-12 education. Carried out via a grant from the Stuart Foundation, this effort is helping the Governor's office, policymakers, and other stakeholders access the collective knowledge that has been generated and identify key barriers and leverage points for action.

Previously, in 2006, the Pima County (Arizona) Business and Education Roundtable commissioned a Policy Center report to assess the level of Pima County student preparedness for higher education and the 21st century workforce. The resulting report gave an overview of the Pima County context, identified effective reform strategies and targets of opportunity, and offered insight and guidance for the Roundtable to develop its strategic plan.

In 2005, the superintendents representing Arizona's Joint Technological Education Districts (JTEDs) contracted the Policy Center to analyze the JTED program — its functions, authorizing legislation, regulations, and effectiveness. That report involved a review of related research literature as well as interviews with Arizona legislators, legislative staff, JTED superintendents, and CTE experts.

The Policy Center is available to replicate these types of state and regional analyses on contract.