We Know Schools

Our deep knowledge of school practices and culture is built on two decades of experience studying schools and working with stakeholders at all levels of our education system.

Informed Communities = Better Schools

A strong civic dialogue and buy-in from community stakeholders are keys to sustaining educational reforms and supporting our schools. At RFA, we are committed to ensuring that the facts about schools and school reforms are part of the conversation and accessible to all stakeholders.

From Pre-K to Post-Secondary

Supporting our students and our communities requires a coordinated effort across all levels of education. At RFA, our work informs and improves educational programs serving students of all ages. We strive to provide research and strategic advice that will create stronger linkages across educational sectors and ensure strong, clear pathways to educational attainment.

Partnering for Better Schools

Researchers and practitioners can, and must, learn from each other. Our research is built on strong partnerships with a range of stakeholders. We build relationships to expand knowledge, foster collaboration, increase capacity, and provoke public dialogue.

Commitment to Supporting All Students

At RFA, our work is rooted in our core belief that high quality education opportunities should be available to all, including those traditionally disadvantaged by poverty and racial discrimination. We partner with practitioners and advocates to support that mission in Philadelphia and nationwide.

Our Research Leads to Action

At RFA, we don’t do research for its own sake, and we don’t let our work sit on bookshelves collecting dust. Our publications are packed with practical questions and actionable recommendations, and we work hard to ensure that our research is accessible to all parties and bolsters civic dialogue.