In the West Region and beyond, educators are searching for evidence-based programs as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). REL West, in collaboration with the other nine RELs, developed two new tools to support education decisionmakers as they build their own and others’ knowledge about the evidence requirements and consider research alongside local contexts to select appropriate interventions.

Accessing & Assessing Research and Evidence This clickable guide provides a curated list of resources related to accessing and assessing evidence and research. Organized around six questions (such as “How can I use the What Works Clearinghouse to determine ESSA evidence tiers of an intervention?"), the document links to lists of related resources for each question. It is intended to provide a one-stop shop for state education agency staff and technical assistance providers to build their knowledge and understanding about the ESSA evidence provisions and in turn support districts with their ESSA-related needs.

Applicability of Evidence-Based Information This tool provides a set of seven considerations to determine if an intervention is suited to one's local context. It will help those tasked with selecting evidence-based programs or strategies, especially those serving rural, small, and Native-serving schools that historically have not been included in education research, to screen research and determine applicability to their settings. It encourages educators to look more deeply at research evidence and interventions that could meet their needs.

Related Resources -The Evidence-Based Improvement Guide provides an initial set of tools to help states and school districts understand and plan for implementing evidence-based strategies. -The interactive video Defining Your Approach to Implementing ESSA Evidence Standards is designed to help SEAs and their partners define their specific approach to supporting LEAs as they identify and implement evidence-based practices. Follow along with the facilitator guide. Read our blog and listen to an audio interview on how ESSA is asking education decisionmakers to think differently. Learn about the evidence levels defined by ESSA and how leaders in Arizona are using them as a framework for guiding LEAs in their selection of literacy programs.

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