Research for Action

#ALERT - ?????????????????????????? ?????????????? ????????????????: ?????? ???????????????? ?????????? ?????????? ???? ?????????????? ???????????????? ???? ???????????????????????? Have you ever thought about what it takes for students to thrive in school? Stability in their learning environment is one of the most important factors. But for many English Learner (EL) students in large urban districts like Philadelphia, frequent moves are a common occurrence. A new study by the Philadelphia Education Research Consortium, a partnership of RFA and The School District of Philadelphia's Office of Research and Evaluation, dug deep into the numbers to understand what's happening and why. Covering data from the 2021-22 school year through the start of the 2023-24 school year, this research highlights the unique challenges EL students face and how schools can better support them. Here's what we found and the actions we recommend. https://lnkd.in/eBFqdQ_U

Are you ready to lead the financial strategy of a mission-driven organization making a real impact in education systems? Research for Action is in search for a Senior Director of Finance to join our leadership team and steer financial operations. About the Role As Senior Director of Finance, you’ll: ? Be a key advisor to the Executive Director and Board, shaping our financial strategy to align with organizational goals. ?Lead budgeting, financial planning, audit management, and compliance in a multi-revenue environment. ?Supervise a talented finance team, streamline processes, and enhance systems like Sage Intacct. ?Uphold integrity, transparency, and innovation in financial operations while supporting RFA’s mission to advance equitable education systems. Location We’re seeking candidates in the Philadelphia region for weekly in-office work. Remote candidates are welcome to apply if based in Colorado, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania (outside of a commutable distance to Philly). Compensation & Benefits ?Annual salary: $160,000 - $175,000 ?Low-cost health, dental, and vision insurance ?Employer-funded retirement plan ?Generous paid holidays and time off ?A collaborative, mission-driven culture grounded in social justice principles About Us RFA is an independent, nonprofit research organization. Our work is rooted in advancing education systems for more equitable and just outcomes for students, families, and communities. From teacher diversity to early education workforce stability, we tackle critical issues in the education landscape. How to Apply If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the anticipated start date is on or after July 1, 2025. Submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your fit for the role here: https://lnkd.in/dScveJwG

At the #StandUpforScience event in Philly, RFA’s Senior Research Director Alyn Turner emphasized the critical role that robust scientific research plays in shaping a healthy democracy. “I've seen firsthand how scientific research in schools and districts can drive innovation, inform policy decisions and ensure that progress in education is based on evidence, not ideology.” But recent funding cuts are threatening to undermine the integrity of scientific inquiry - and that affects us all. That's why it's essential for local leaders, educators, and scientists to come together and advocate for policies that support independent research, demand transparency in data, and provide every student the opportunity to thrive. Check https://lnkd.in/gKFfcDpK for her entire address. ?#StandUpForScience #EducationResearch #ScientificResearch

Five years ago today, COVID-19 was officially declared a pandemic. Many lessons were learned during the difficult years of the pandemic, including the importance of OST providers and coordinated OST systems in supporting children and families.?OST providers were on the frontlines for children and families when school buildings closed providing an array of supports. Research for Action, in partnership with Wendy McClanahan, examined the role coordinated OST systems played during this time and the lessons it suggests for the present.?The lessons learned about the power of coordinated OST networks are relevant today.??https://lnkd.in/ePV8smFw

?? ????'???? ????????????: ???????????? ???????????????? ???? ?????????????? Are you ready to make an impact in nonprofit financial leadership? Research for Action is seeking an experienced, strategic, and mission-driven Senior Director of Finance to join our leadership team. If you’re passionate about advancing education systems through research and have expertise in nonprofit financial management, this may be the opportunity for you! As the Senior Director of Finance, you will: *??Lead financial strategy to support RFA’s mission and strategic goals. *??Oversee budgeting, financial analysis, compliance, and reporting. *??Mentor and supervise a high-performing finance team. *??Enhance financial systems and processes to support growth. ?? Location: Proximal to Philadelphia, PA (remote candidates considered in select states) Salary Range: $160,000–$175,000 annually ?? Application Deadline: Rolling basis—apply today! Please share this opportunity with your networks!

As told to us by educators in our new limited-series podcast, the teaching profession for Black educators is 'more an act of social justice than it is something that garners you a check.' Listen to more of their powerful insights and learn more about our work with them. https://lnkd.in/gibnXirz

Alyn Turner: If we don’t stand up for science, critical funding for scientific research will be threatened and removed. The very systems that support our understanding of the world and our progress will be dismantled. https://lnkd.in/eFDmm3J2

?????????? ???????? ???????? ???????? ???????? ???? ?? ???????????? ?????? ???????? ??????'?? ??????????? You're not alone. Many organizations face challenges when it comes to making sense of their data. But here's the good news—you don’t have to tackle it alone. At Research for Action, we specialize in providing technical assistance to help organizations overcome their toughest "data puzzles." From identifying gaps to building capacity, our tailored solutions empower teams to unlock the full potential of their data. Check out our latest blog post by Senior Research Associate Molly Pileggi that dives into three common challenges organizations face when managing data and how our expertise can help solve them. Let’s turn your data challenges into actionable insights. Reach out to learn more about RFA’s technical assistance services.

RFA’s Dr. Alyn Turner will take the stage tomorrow at the Philadelphia Stand Up for Science event! This is your chance to hear one of the brightest minds in education research discuss the implications of cuts to research funding and the future of innovation. ?? When: March 7, 2025, 11 am?? Where: Philadelphia City Hall ?? Learn more about the event here: standupforscience2025.org #StandUpForScience #Innovation #SocialSciences #standupforscience2025

We are committed to transforming the landscape of education research by placing power back into the hands of those most affected by it. Our new initiative,????????????? ?????? ????????????: ?? ?????????? ???????????????? ???????????? ??????????????, exemplifies this mission through the implementation of Participatory Action Research (PAR). PAR is not just a methodology; it’s a movement that empowers Black teachers to lead their own research efforts. By allowing these educators to formulate questions, select methods, and interpret data based on their lived experiences, we are challenging traditional research paradigms that often marginalize their voices. Our first two cohorts have uncovered critical insights into the systemic challenges faced by Black educators. They have bravely shared their experiences with racism and inequity in the education system, highlighting the need for mentorship and safe spaces where they can thrive. The findings from these cohorts will not only inform our understanding but also drive actionable solutions. For instance, the Pilot Cohort developed a mentorship program that connects veteran Black teachers with new educators, fostering community and support. Meanwhile, our current cohort is exploring ways to create affinity spaces that cater specifically to the needs of Black teachers. We recognize that traditional research often focuses on deficits rather than strengths. Our work aims to reframe the narrative, showcasing Black educators as invaluable assets to their schools and communities, and co-creating rigorous research to effect the change they desire. Take a deep dive into this work. https://lnkd.in/gibnXirz