Using evidence to propel American education past extreme polarization to a new era of opportunity.
Despite the divisive rhetoric of the culture war era, Americans may agree more than we realize on what they want from schools.
Through this initiative, the Brookings Institution is listening to Americans to understand their priorities for America’s education system at a time of significant change in our society and economy. We are building tools that school district leaders can use to expand opportunities for their students and bringing together leaders with diverse perspectives to shape an evidence-informed education policy agenda.
Jon Valant, Nicolas Zerbino, Emma Mills
October 16, 2026
We are conducting nationally representative surveys of students, teachers, parents, and the public to learn about the challenges they see and hopes they have for U.S. schools.
We are building customized tools for school district leaders to help them diagnose problems and identify research–informed solutions.
We are bringing together experts with diverse perspectives to create local, state, and federal policy playbooks.
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