Michelle Flores is a Research Analyst at the Research Alliance for New York City Schools, specializing in qualitative research. She plays a pivotal role in the development and analysis of qualitative codebooks, recruiting participants, and conducting interviews, focus groups, and classroom observations for projects like Understanding the Unique Needs of Doubled-Up Students in NYC and Computer Science for All.
Before joining the Research Alliance, Michelle was a research assistant for several organizations, including the Center for Racial Justice in Education and ARCADIA (A Research Center for Adolescent Interconnected Approaches for Suicide Prevention). In these positions, Michelle conducted qualitative coding, developed analytical frameworks, and contributed to the creation of codebooks aimed at understanding race-related stressors among elementary school teachers and mental health support in schools. She also has experience assisting with racial equity audits and cleaning and analyzing interview transcripts.
Michelle's research interests center on racial equity, educational outcomes, and adolescent development, particularly the impact of stress and coping mechanisms on youth. She is committed to using participatory action and qualitative methodologies to uplift marginalized voices and foster resilience through storytelling.
Michelle holds a B.A. in Psychology and English, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of St. Thomas, and a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology from New York University.