Policy Analyst, K-12 Education

Reports to: Senior Director, K-12 Education

Staff reporting to this position: None

Department: Education

Position classification: Exempt, full time; Union - Level 4

Compensation range: $62,000–$74,400 per annum

Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress has an immediate opening for a Policy Analyst on the K-12 Education team. The team is devoted to generating pragmatic and progressive new policy ideas to advance a new education agenda rooted in the principles of opportunity for all and equity in access. The successful candidate will be guided by American Progress’ mission, “to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country.”

The work of the K-12 Education team particularly focuses on achieving outcomes through the development of policies that apply an explicit resource and racial equity lens to education policymaking; strengthen and modernize the educator workforce; equip all students with the 21st-century skills necessary for success in college, in their careers, and in civic engagement; and ensure public schools are funded equitably so that all students receive access to a quality education. The Policy Analyst will join a dynamic team of colleagues working together to deliver high-quality, impactful, and timely education policy work.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct policy research on a range of topics related to K-12 education policy and interpret qualitative and quantitative research.
• Write and edit accessible op-eds, columns, briefs, and reports that translate complex policies and analyses into digestible information for a broad audience.
• Develop rapid-response materials, including talking points, social media content, and other messaging, on tight deadlines.
• Weekly tracking of federal, state, and local K-12-related legislative updates and news.
• Elicit and provide feedback on written materials.
• Assist in the coordination and planning of meetings, events, and issue-based coalition work.
• Develop rollout strategies for products to reach target audiences.
• Establish advocacy strategies supporting policy ideas being adopted and implemented.
• Build relationships with community-based organizations in alignment with the team’s community-informed policymaking structure.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• At least four years of relevant work experience.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a social science discipline, public policy, or education is required. An advanced degree is preferred.
• Excellent writing skills and a track record of producing written products on a short timeline.
• General understanding of federal and state education policy, including knowledge of federal policymaking and legislative and budget processes.
• Ability to conceptualize problems and develop analyses and policy recommendations.
• Strong ability to manipulate and analyze data. Experience using statistical software such as Stata is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to initiate projects and balance multiple projects at once.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well on a team.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals.
• Experience building relationships and collaborating with grassroots and/or nonprofit organizations is a plus.
• Experience engaging with state legislatures or Congress is a plus.

American Progress offers full and competitive benefits packages. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by IFPTE Local 70 and has a salary range of $62,000–$74,400.