Strengthening Systems That Advance Opportunities for Students with Disabilities

We host two federally funded technical assistance centers designed to deepen capacity for state leaders to implement the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) effectively—the National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI) and the Center for IDEA Fiscal Reporting (CIFR). Additionally, we partner with national organizations and directly with SEAs to shape policy and procedure development, evaluation and improvement activities, and accountability and support systems to improve the implementation of IDEA. 

We equip schools and districts with the tools to develop an aligned educational framework that ensures full participation in effective learning environments. We offer professional learning to facilitate collaboration through peer planning and observation and provide feedback to help teachers learn and improve their practice. 

We apply innovative, rigorous research methods to solve pressing challenges in learner variability and special education. Our research and evaluation team uses design thinking, systems frameworks, implementation science, and meaningful participation to identify and develop evidence-based solutions across a deep and broad range of content domains.