Policy Studies Associates (PSA) conducts research in education and youth development. Founded in 1982, PSA believes in the importance of using accurate information to guide decision making about education and youth development.

The studies PSA conducts for its clients span evaluation, policy analysis, and many other forms of systematic inquiry. In these studies, PSA’s trained researchers integrate information from many sources to examine the operations and effects of programs to improve schooling and other services for children and youth. They draw upon their expertise in research and evaluation design, data collection (using surveys, interviews, and observations), analysis, and reporting.

PSA’s clients include federal, state, and local government agencies, foundations, and other organizations that aim to use high-quality data to make policy decisions. PSA’s evaluation and research studies have helped these organizations to:

• Measure program outcomes
  
  
• Inform policy and program improvement
  
  
• Share lessons learned
  
  

PSA's studies have involved evaluation, research, and policy analysis in:

School Improvement

PSA's evaluations give educators and policymakers information on the implementation of new programs and practices in schools and classrooms.

Youth Development / After-School Programs

The growing popularity of after-school programs and other youth development services has made the evaluation of these programs a major PSA focus.

Professional Development

PSA's evaluation and research studies in professional development seek to find out what promotes educators' professional growth.

Community Involvement

PSA's evaluation and research services are working with local communities and organizations to examine the efficiency and effects of their operations and resources.

Technical Assistance and Scale-Up of Innovative Programs

Technical assistance and scale-up of innovative programs explore the support and assistance offered educators as they implement school improvement.