Rachel Lander specializes in evaluating literacy programs and interventions in urban school districts. Using mixed methods, she has researched several literacy programs in Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), including literacy coaches, direct instruction, and READ 180, providing both formative and summative evaluations. She is currently leading a study in MPS of two literacy programs for special education students: LANGUAGE! and Unique. Using a contextualized approach, Dr. Lander analyzes how the organization of schools and districts influences the effectiveness of teaching and learning. She is also working on a U.S. Department of Education Investing in Innovation (i3) grant with the Boys & Girls Club and MPS, evaluating the Milwaukee Community Literacy Project. This project intends to increase the reading proficiency of struggling readers in kindergarten through 3rd grade through support in school, community, and family spheres.

In addition to MPS, she has done extensive work in Chicago Public Schools and worked in the District of Columbia Public Schools. Dr. Lander also has expertise in qualitative research, strategic planning and logic models. During a multi-year project with the Chicago Community Trust Foundation, she has evaluated program effectiveness and worked with grantees on evaluation quality. She received her Ph.D. from Michigan State University in educational policy, curriculum, and teacher education. She began her education career as a middle school teacher in Phoenix, Arizona.

Contact Information

Completed Projects

Evaluation of the MPS Language! Program for Students with Disabilities

READ 180 Evaluation Project