Our Approach
We describe our approach as data-informed, system-accountable
because we believe these two tenets are critical for developing research and policy solutions that get at the root of educational inequities.
Data-Informed
In order to build a truly liberative education system, we must hold political and educational institutions accountable for adequately serving all students. This approach challenges institutions to do the work necessary to ensure no student is left behind
System-Accountable
We believe that, when collected well, data doesn't lie. With this in mind, our approach focuses on using data to uncover suppressed narratives and focus on the experiences of students most impacted.
Our Mission
The Liberative Research Lab exists to serve Black students and students of color across California, to dismantle white supremacy throughout the educational pipeline, and to support community partners, educators, parents, and institutions.
Our Values
At the Lab, we know that the biggest obstacle facing all of California's students is the entrenched white supremacy within our education system. That is why we believe it is necessary to take a Pro-Black, Anti-Racist approach to create a transformative education system that serves all students
Our Services
Explore our range of services including program evaluation, mixed methods data analysis, and tailored policy recommendations to support your educational research needs.
Program Evaluation
We specialize in evaluating educational programs to provide key insights and data-driven recommendations for sustainable growth and development of equity initiatives. From assessing efforts to expand access to student support services, to evaluating teacher training programs aimed at increasing teachers of color, to analyzing scholarship initiatives for underrepresented students — our evaluations equip organizations with the information they need to drive meaningful, equity-centered change.
Research Consulting
We offer educational research consulting grounded in asset-framed, equity-minded methods. We support organizations in collecting and making sense of their data, translating findings into actionable strategies, and building stronger data literacy across their teams. Our goal is to help you harness your data to tell a more complete story of impact, opportunity, and areas for growth.
Landscape Scans
We help organizations better understand the educational landscape so they can make informed, equity-focused decisions. Whether you’re developing a new policy initiative, seeking to deepen field knowledge of existing programs, or mapping partnerships across your region, our scans identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities to build systems that truly support all students.
Meet Isaac
Our Founder and Director of Research
A researcher, organizer, and advocate, Isaac has worked for nearly a decade to better educational outcomes for California's students. Working with elected officials, universities, advocacy groups, non-profits, and community groups across the state, Isaac has developed critical research and policy solutions that have expanded educational access for thousands of students. His research focuses on the manifestation of anti-Blackness in education and using this approach to develop policy solutions that ensure California's classrooms enable the success of all students.
