What are we missing when we focus on the “average” student experience? How do students’ perceptions of school climate vary? And could a clearer picture of this variation inform efforts to develop more inclusive and equitable learning environments, within schools and across the system?

Design2Learn (D2L) is a NYC-based afterschool program aimed at increasing middle school students’ interest, engagement, and achievement in science. We examined D2L’s implementation, as well as its impact on various student outcomes.

The Research Alliance’s new policy brief outlines recommendations for how City and District leaders can take a more demanding approach to advancing equity, while sustaining the progress that has been made during the last 20 years.