PSBA's Education Research & Policy Center

The PSBA Education Research & Policy Center identifies existing and emerging critical issues affecting public education and public school governance, and then develops materials to build understanding of these issues across a broad group of constituents. Those materials include reports, white papers and other resources to advance public education and school governance.

David Davare Ph.D., director of Research Services for PSBA leads the center and is supported by his current team Todd Hosterman, senior research specialist; and Anne Herald, research supervisor. The center is housed within the existing PSBA structure, both from a physical as well as personnel basis.

Publications, reports and materials

"Pennsylvania Charter Schools:
A look at school and student performance" (October 2009)
There is minimal statistical difference between charter school performance and traditional public school performance in Pennsylvania. Download the PDF

"Merger/Consolidation of School Districts:
Does it Save Money and Improve Student Achievement?" (April 2009)
Merger or consolidation of school districts does not save money, and it has an adverse impact on academic achievement. Download the PDF