CER has evaluated over 200 school-based programs. CER staff have served in a variety of roles such as superintendents, principals, teachers, and program directors. CER staff have served in several accreditation and school improvement initiatives. Dr. Matthew Russell and Dr. Thomas Forbes have also served as graduate level faculty in schools of education. This firsthand knowledge of how K-12 schools work is reflected in evaluations and research studies that are useful and ultimately leads to positive outcomes for students.

A major focus of CER’s work has been with low-performing, at-risk student populations. CER is currently participating in the state-wide evaluations of programs targeting English language learners, migrant, and low-income families. CER evaluation findings are being used by policy makers to re-focus resources on making a difference for students, schools, and districts.