The inequities that exist in education adversely affect individuals over the course of their lives and lead to fractured, less prosperous societies. Unequal access to high-quality instruction and a diverse array of post-secondary options not only lead to vast inequities in the labor market, but ultimately to inequities in housing and health. By investigating strategies to improve educational outcomes and close racial opportunity gaps, the Social Policy Institute gives students, workers, and communities the tools they need to achieve upward mobility.
The Social Policy Institute seeks to understand how innovative policies, programs and practices can foster a more efficient, equitable, and excellent education system. Our education research focus areas vary from leveraging community-led neighborhood redevelopment initiatives that improve child outcomes to helping marginalized workers achieve upward mobility through reskilling programs. This research relies on robust public-private partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations to better understand and solve pressing social problems relating to education and youth. Our research utilizes multiple methodologies, including field experiments, survey research, administrative data analysis, and in-depth qualitative interviews. In addition to research, we also develop digital tools to increase efficiencies and reduce inequities faced by marginalized workers in the labor market.
Our Education Initiatives
Research Response to COVID-19
Socioeconomic Impact of COVID-19 Survey
COVID-19 has dramatically shifted the world, and applying lessons learned during the pandemic will be critical as we not only rebuild our economy, but make it more equitable, too.
Latest Publications
Can training and apprentice programs in STEM increase worker life satisfaction and optimism?
Tackling Disparities in Child Education Amidst COVID-19 Recovery: Lessons from Israel
