#United States #Boston #Education Policy #American Institutes for Research #APPAM

AIR Experts to Present at APPAM Fall Research Conference

The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is set to participate in the highly anticipated APPAM Fall Research Conference, occurring from November 5-7, 2026, at the Marriott Copley Place in Boston. Experts from AIR will present their findings across various sessions, aiming to tackle pressing state policy challenges under this year's theme, "Fifty States, Fifty Systems: State Policy Variations and Impacts."

Conference Highlights

This year’s conference promises a rich exchange of ideas among education researchers, policy makers, and practitioners from all over the nation. Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into emerging state policy challenges and the vital evidence required for developing effective solutions. As a Gold Conference Sponsor, AIR will not only present research but also host a booth at the Exhibitor Hall, offering insights into its latest projects and initiatives.

Noteworthy Sessions by AIR Experts

• - Career and Technical Education and Work-Based Learning - On November 5 from 2:45 PM to 3:15 PM, AIR Chair Kelly Reese will lead a panel discussion on the importance of career and technical education across three states.

• - Gun Violence Interventions - On November 6 from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, Candace Hester and Bryant Crubaugh will discuss both the opportunities and hurdles in implementing and evaluating gun violence interventions in various state and community contexts.

• - Addressing Educational Freedom Tax Credit - Another roundtable discussion on November 6 will prepare leaders and researchers for the implications of the Education Freedom Tax Credit, featuring insights from Christopher Brooks, Stephanie Levin, and Susan Therriault.

• - Methods and AI Tools in Education - Ruhan Circi will present a paper exploring innovative methods in educational settings, comparing semantic ranking with local LLMs in a session scheduled for November 6 from 10:15 AM to 11:45 AM.

• - English Learners and Their Outcomes - On November 6, AIR co-author Preeya Mbekeani will examine the contexts, policies, and outcomes for English learners, highlighting the pressing need for targeted research in this area.

Networking Opportunities

With a dedicated table at the APPAM Career & PhD Program Fair, AIR invites aspiring researchers and professionals to learn more about potential career paths in the public policy sector on November 6 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Gloucester Meeting Room.

AIR’s Legacy in Research

Established in 1946, AIR has built a strong reputation as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research in health, education, and workforce development both in the U.S. and internationally. By fostering collaborations and providing actionable insights, AIR aims to enhance educational outcomes and support effective policy-making.

To discover more about the conference and the presentations slated for the event, participants can visit the APPAM conference website.

Engaging with AIR’s experts at this prestigious conference promises to be an enlightening experience, providing valuable knowledge and networking opportunities for those committed to improving educational practices and policies nationwide.