As we continue our work to strengthen high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) adoption across K-12 schools, we at the EdSignals Studio are excited to share new research, practical resources for support organizations, and opportunities to engage with our community.
In this newsletter, you'll find:
Insights from our first annual report, with learnings on how to improve signals of quality for instructional materials.
An in-depth look at early purchasing signals in EdTech procurement.
The recording and key insights from our most recent webinar on quality in EdTech.
Compensated opportunities to contribute to our research on AI adoption, tools to support curriculum adoption, and shaping the future of student pathways.
Our Latest Perspectives
Report
The 2025 EdSignals Studio
Annual Report
In our first annual report, we break down our activities from the last year and the insights we've generated across partners. Read the report for a detailed discussion and concrete recommendations on what actors across the K-12 ecosystem can do to strengthen evidence-based decision-making in instructional materials adoption.
Article
Engaging Evidence in EdTech Purchasing: Strengthening Early Signals of Need and Quality
This article is the first in a series on decision-making in EdTech adoption. We'll break down the "needfind" stage, including the challenges unique to the EdTech ecosystem and concrete strategies for market actors and district leaders to consider when evaluating new products. Explore this piece and catch up on the rest of the series below.
Insights from the Field
Brookings | A new direction for students in an AI world: Prosper, prepare, protect.
An in-depth report detailing the current risks and benefits of AI in children's education, including recommendations on how to properly use AI to improve educational outcomes.
Springer Nature | Student and Staff Mental Health in a Post-COVID Era: Perspectives of Secondary Educators.
An analysis of interviews with educators in secondary-level schools on themes in adolescent mental health since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Technological Horizons in Education Journal | Education's AI Safety Blind Spot: Only 6% of Student-Facing Systems Are Tested.
A report on data security for AI in education, calling out the controls that are currently absent and the risks involved.
EdSurge | Lack of Guidelines and Expertise Prove Challenging for AI Use in Schools.
An article calling for more purposeful integration of standards for AI literacy in education.
Do you have work you’d like to see featured in this section?
Contact us at info@thedecisionlab.com to share your suggestions.
Connecting the Field
Bringing the HQIM ecosystem into conversation
Bridging the Gap: Connecting District Needs with EdTech Solutions That Work
We recently hosted our inaugural webinar featuring experts from ISTE+ASCD, the Stanford d.school, and Denver Public Schools to tackle the disconnects in the EdTech market. The discussion moved beyond high-level theory to offer actionable advice on navigating AI distrust, the curb-cut effect of inclusive design, and why third-party certifications are now a non-negotiable for district buyers. Watch the recording and read the full breakdown of key insights on our website.
The EdSignals Studio LinkedIn
The EdSignals Studio LinkedIn page is officially live! Follow us for a first look at our behavioral insights and timely updates on opportunities to participate in on Studio activities and supports. Join a growing network of district leaders and innovators who are already diving into our latest expert spotlights. Follow us to stay connected to the ecosystem.
Upcoming Events
Research Participation Opportunity (Honorarium Included)
Help shape national guidance on AI in K-12 education
EdSignals Studio is studying how district-level AI adoption varies across different policy contexts, district sizes, and local approaches. We aim to build a knowledge base that reflects the real-world complexities you face and translate them into practical resources that are helpful to professionals like you. Use the link below to find out if you or someone you know is eligible!
Research Participation Opportunity (Honorarium Included)
Help Improve Curriculum Adoption in California
Choosing the right curriculum gives every student the tools they need to thrive, but the selection process is a massive undertaking. CalCurriculum, a non-profit partnership that provides curriculum adoption guidance to California districts, is launching two new tools to support the process: Math List Hub and Between the Greens. We need your expertise to ensure these tools hit the mark! If you are a California district leader involved in math adoption, sign up below. If you know someone else who might like to contribute, please forward this email to them!
Research Participation Opportunity (Honorarium Included)
Shape the Future of Student Pathway Planning
We are looking for high school Counselors, College & Career Advisors, and Pathway Specialists in US districts to join an upcoming virtual focus group. Your expertise will directly shape how digital systems support student pathway planning, and ensure these tools work for you and your students! If you spend your days helping students figure out their next steps, we want to hear from you. Not an advisor? Help us spread the word! If you know an amazing counselor who fits this description, please forward this email to them.
Upcoming Webinar (April 2026)
Bridging Disconnects Between Educators and Vendors at Conferences
Join us this April for an evidence-based look at the disconnects between district leaders and vendors at major conferences. We’ll present new research and host a panel discussion on how to transform these interactions into high-impact partnerships. Stay tuned to our LinkedIn and future newsletters for the upcoming registration link!
EdSignals Studio will be at SXSW EDU Next Week
The EdSignals Studio is heading to Austin for SXSW EDU! We’re excited to connect with the community. Will you be there? Email us at info@thedecisionlab.com to let us know. We look forward to seeing you in the mix!