Research matters– but many district leaders lack the time, tools and support to find and apply evidence effectively. As LCAP requirements for research-based justification continue to grow, county offices of education can play a unique role in bridging the gap between research and practice. This session highlights a workshop created by the Alameda County Office of Education for the 2026 LCAP Institute to help district leaders find, evaluate and apply research in planning and funding decisions. The workshop introduces a research repository and guidance on identifying strong evidence aligned with federal standards. Through this case study, participants will explore how county offices can build district capacity for evidence-based decision making ultimately leading to better plans, smarter investments and improved student outcomes.
