Research has always been central to school integration advocacy. NCSD is committed to ensuring that current research more systematically informs policy development, particularly at the state and local levels. While the evidence supporting the effectiveness of integration has strengthened over time, it is still not influencing decision-making as widely as it should.

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NCSD’s research efforts aim to foster authentic, reciprocal partnerships between scholars, stakeholders (students, parents/caretakers, and educators), and grassroots advocates; make academic research relatable and accessible by grounding it in the lived experiences of those directly impacted; and present research creatively to engage broader audiences and inspire action.

 

A key focus of our work is building robust scholar-activist partnerships that emphasize collaboration, mutual respect, and shared goals.

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Key Research Activities

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Through our research initiatives, NCSD:

• Engages a Research Advisory Panel (RAP): Collaborating with scholars and advocates to develop joint research projects, promote evidence-based policymaking, and elevate integration-related research to inform and strengthen the movement.

• Supports emerging researchers: Connecting researchers with advocates and practitioners, providing youth mentorship and technical guidance, and facilitating intergenerational dialogue about the role of research in activism.

• Leverages historical research: Using lessons from past integration efforts—both successes and shortcomings—to inform advocacy strategies and acknowledge and repair/redress historical harms.

• Makes research accessible and impactful: Translating complex findings into relatable, actionable formats through fact sheets, case studies, storytelling rooted in lived experiences, arts and culture, and advocacy-focused talking points.