February 20, 2026
By Jannelle Kubinec, WestEd CEO
WestEd turns 60 this year, a proud milestone worthy of celebration and reflection. We came into being to conduct and apply research and offer support in addressing difficult challenges for our country’s education and learning systems. While there are many accomplishments to point to, it is also true that challenges abound for our colleagues; our partners; and, most of all, the learners and communities we serve.
Learning and Leading, Together
As we face these challenges, our mission to promote excellence, improve learning, and increase opportunity for children, youth, and adults matters now more than ever. Since our beginning as the Far West Laboratory for Educational Research and Development, we’ve collaborated with educators, families, and leaders worldwide and adapted to shifting realities with growth and innovation. Our strength lies in partnership; in our ability to listen; and in the collective effort to ensure every learner has the opportunity to thrive in school, career, and life.
Our flagship services, including Reading Apprenticeship (celebrating its 30th anniversary), Quality Teaching for English Learners (advancing excellence for 27 years), and the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (marking its 40th anniversary), continue to inspire and equip educators with the knowledge and tools necessary for helping all learners succeed. These offerings reflect our deep commitment to evidence-based practice, even in unpredictable times.
Adapting for Tomorrow
To better meet these complex needs, WestEd is launching initiatives designed to expand our expertise, enhance coherence, and build stronger partnerships in service of the educational and developmental goals of individuals at every age and every stage.
These initiatives show WestEd’s expertise in addressing the totality of the educational system, from academic achievement across the disciplines to student health and well-being and from strengthening and sustaining the educator workforce to preparing students to thrive in the workforce.
Here are the main areas we are focusing on to support our clients and partners nationwide:
- Our Early Childhood initiative helps state and local leaders build strong foundations for children from birth to age 5 by connecting research with practice. Our work supports early childhood leaders, early educators, caregivers, and families through technical assistance, professional learning, evaluation, and policy analysis.
- Our Education Systems initiative helps local, state, and national partners (a) understand the factors that influence student outcomes and (b) design and implement meaningful and sustainable improvements. It combines coaching, professional learning, technical assistance, and research to support evidence-based practices and stronger education systems.
- With our Mobility and Measurement initiative, we work to strengthen the systems that promote lifelong learning, opportunity, and well-being. Through rigorous assessment, evaluation, and data analytics, we help align educational institutions, employers, and communities to support pathways that advance safety, resilience, and economic mobility.
- Our Teaching and Learning initiative engages educators, curriculum developers, and professional development providers to improve how instruction is designed, delivered, and measured. The work centers on research in learning sciences and on the dynamic relationships among teachers, students, and content.
We’ll share more updates about our initiatives, resources, and partnerships in the coming months, and we look forward to engaging with you on these exciting developments.
As we face these challenges, our mission to promote excellence, improve learning, and increase opportunity for children, youth, and adults matters now more than ever.
Innovation for a Changing Field
WestEd continues to respond creatively to the evolving education landscape. Our AI in Education initiative, for example, supports leaders in using technology wisely, with an emphasis on human-centered, safe, and responsible learning.
Our Research–Practice Partnership Network connects WestEd researchers with education agencies to bridge the gap between research and practice. These partnerships help keep educators informed and support them in making decisions that improve outcomes.
Gratitude and an Invitation
As we commemorate our 60th year, I want to express my gratitude to our amazing staff, partners, and Board of Directors. Your commitment, collaboration, and trust make our work possible and drive us forward.
I invite you to celebrate WestEd’s 60th anniversary with us. Please connect with us throughout the year and take part in our upcoming anniversary activities. Together, we can pursue a shared vision of promoting thriving learners and empowered communities.