Student success is shaped by a multitude of factors, both within and beyond the walls of the classroom.
At the Johns Hopkins School of Education, we are dedicated to transforming learning environments through cutting-edge, evidence-based research. As part of this effort, our faculty and research scholars explore the intricate interplay of social dynamics, political forces, economic disparities, and cultural influences — which together shape our educational settings.
Understanding student achievement requires a holistic perspective. With expertise and unwavering commitment, our researchers delve into the complex web of social and economic factors within the educational landscape. From geographical considerations to the dynamics of family life, we meticulously examine the social context of education and its profound impact on student success. Then, utilizing data-driven insights, we develop practical strategies and actionable recommendations that empower schools and communities to drive improved outcomes for all students.
Championing Equity and Inclusion
From educational policy and practice to school climate and culture, we translate our findings into actionable insights that help strengthen schools, communities, and student outcomes.
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Academic Programs
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Centers and Institutes
Academic Programs
Centers and Institutes
PEOPLE OF SOE
Robert Balfanz, PhD
School of Education Distinguished Professor; Director, Everyone Graduates Center
"Advances in learning science tell us that to maximize student learning, we need to recognize that the learning process is driven by an integration of academic, social, and emotional skills."
Backed by a five-year, $5.8 million federal EIR grant, Robert Balfanz and his team are refining and expanding an innovative curriculum to give eighth graders the critical social-emotional learning skills they need to navigate the transition to high school and succeed in the critical ninth grade year and beyond. The project will transform an existing, multiyear middle-grades advisory curriculum into a high-impact course: “Skills for Secondary School Success.”
Our Social Context Experts
The Johns Hopkins School of Education is home to some of the nation’s top experts, thought leaders, and mentors in this field.
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Robert Balfanz, PhD
Professor
Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of SchoolsAffiliation
Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment, Social Context of Education
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Joyce L. Epstein, PhD
Professor
Co-Director, Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships
Co-Director, National Network of Partnership Schools (NNPS)Affiliation
Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership
Expertise
Administration, Organization & Leadership, Social Context of Education
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Yolanda Abel, EdD
Associate Professor
Affiliation
Advanced Studies in Education
Expertise
Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education
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Richard Lofton, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Center for Safe and Healthy Schools
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education
Robert Balfanz, PhD
Professor
Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools
Affiliation
Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment, Social Context of Education
Joyce L. Epstein, PhD
Professor
Co-Director, Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships
Co-Director, National Network of Partnership Schools (NNPS)
Affiliation
Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership
Expertise
Administration, Organization & Leadership, Social Context of Education
Yolanda Abel, EdD
Associate Professor
Affiliation
Advanced Studies in Education
Expertise
Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education
Richard Lofton, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Center for Safe and Healthy Schools
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education
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Rebecca Cruz, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, Innovative Teaching & Leadership
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education, Special Education
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Olivia Marcucci, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools
Expertise
Social Context of Education
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Stephen Morgan, PhD
Bloomberg Distinguished Professor
Expertise
Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education
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Eric Rice, PhD
Assistant Professor
Interim Director, Teacher Development ProgramsAffiliation
Counseling & Educational Studies
Expertise
Social Context of Education, Urban Education
Rebecca Cruz, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, Innovative Teaching & Leadership
Expertise
Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education, Special Education
Olivia Marcucci, PhD
Assistant Professor
Affiliation
Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools
Expertise
Social Context of Education
Stephen Morgan, PhD
Bloomberg Distinguished Professor
Expertise
Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education
Eric Rice, PhD
Assistant Professor
Interim Director, Teacher Development Programs
Affiliation
Counseling & Educational Studies
Expertise
Social Context of Education, Urban Education