CCS RPN Research Agenda - Further Research and Study of Community Schools Theme 5: Data Systems, Data Sharing, and Knowledge Mobilization

The following is a major theme of the Community Schools Research Agenda. Click here to return to the CCS RPN homepage.

Data Systems, Data Sharing, and Knowledge Mobilization

There is a strong need to strengthen the pipeline from evidence to action so research directly supports implementation decisions at the school, district, and policy levels. This includes producing practical products such as definitive research briefs on what works, implementation playbooks, and curated examples of high-functioning Community School practices, along with supports that help educators interpret and use findings. Building data infrastructure is essential, including clear workflows for collecting and reporting cross-sector outcomes and guidance for coordinators and leadership teams on how to use data for improvement rather than simply for compliance. Data sharing remains a barrier and requires proven agreement models and governance practices, such as templates for local data-sharing agreements that specify the purpose, limit access, address consent, and clarify how data will be used and communicated back to communities. Responsible data use also demands safeguards to prevent misuse of student information, especially when expanding shared platforms or technology tools. Technology and AI can help synthesize best practices, support knowledge management, and accelerate learning across sites. Future research should identify when these tools add value and establish guardrails that reduce privacy risks and perceptions of surveillance. Research-Practice Partnerships should serve as the primary vehicle for translation by shifting from transactional data requests to co-designed inquiries that help schools identify needs, set priorities, and test improvements.

Suggested research questions:

1. What formats and dissemination methods, including research briefs, tools, and curated examples, most effectively help practitioners apply evidence?
2. What district-level data infrastructures and processes are necessary for Community Schools to track cross-sector outcomes?
3. What helps coordinators and school teams use data for improvement?
4. What types of data sharing agreements allow partners to exchange information securely, and which governance practices ensure privacy protection?
5. How can research translation effectively connect evidence to policy and funding decisions?
6. What role can technology and AI play in synthesizing best practices and facilitating knowledge sharing, and what safeguards prevent misuse ?
7. How do university-supported pre-service experiences (such as coursework, practicums, and coaching) affect professionals’ data literacy, confidence, and real-world data-use routines once they are in the field?
8. How do university–community participatory research partnerships enhance implementation processes (such as inquiry cycles, interpretation norms, feedback loops) and improve the alignment of tools with practice contexts?
9. How can Community Schools responsibly integrate community-generated or “street” data into formal data systems to inform implementation, improvement, and accountability while maintaining trust and protecting privacy?