Posted on July 16, 2011

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Research and Policy Coordinator

The Los Angeles County Education Foundation (LACEF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1996 whose mission is to remove barriers that limit children’s futures. LACEF believes that all children, particularly those most affected by financial and social hardships, can thrive in environments that promote a curiosity for learning and promote self-sufficiency. LACEF organizes its work around three critical strategies to attain the necessary changes in systems to optimize the education and self-sufficiency skills of children and youth:

• Influence the allocation of resources
• Partner with others to develop new educational models
• Provide hands-on learning opportunities in science and environmental education

LACEF’s comprehensive agenda ensures that public and private investments are made that will have long-term impact on educational outcomes and change the life-trajectories of children and youth.

In the 15 years since its founding, LACEF’s reach has expanded to address some of the most pressing challenges facing kids and their families today, including issues related to school readiness, access to preventive health, parental involvement, inclusion in publicly-funded programs for those most in need, and access to engaging learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom.

LACEF is a small organization with a budget of $2.5 million. Adoption of a new five-year strategic plan means that LACEF is in a period of transition and growth and is looking for a committed and dynamic individual to serve as its Research and Policy Coordinator.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Education is universally recognized as the cornerstone for human development and increased opportunity. Recognizing the critical link between health and educational attainment, LACEF’s vision is that all students receive high-quality preventive and primary health care services in an appropriate, responsive setting. The Research and Policy Coordinator will provide the information, research and written materials that can formulate and implement strategies to advance LACEF’s Health-centered School’s Initiative and overall policy and advocacy agenda. The Coordinator will assess the current policy environment and identify critical issues through research, policy analysis and partner outreach. The Coordinator will act as a liaison between LACEF and its external allies, including advocacy groups, policymakers and their staff, education experts, superintendents and school boards and other key stakeholders, who work on issues focused on the link between education a nd health. This position reports to the Associate Directors.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead monitoring and tracking of policy and advocacy developments in the news, electronic and social media, as well as in professional journals, listservs, databases and other information centers
• Assist in developing a research agenda, identifying areas for detailed examination and analysis, perform research, and prepare reports, policy and position papers
• Prepare policy and advocacy materials, including issue briefs, action alerts and talking points, that clearly communicate education and health policy issues for educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders
• Disseminate reports and position papers, including making presentations regarding the research and findings
• Provide information and assistance to identified partners to improve existing efforts or develop new policy initiatives
• Assist in planning and coordinating the convening of panels, symposia and other discussion events
• Work with communications team to ensure that LACEF’s website/social media offer the most current information on public policy positions, legislation, funding and other policy related activities
• Support the Associate Directors and assist with the on-going work of the office as needed

REQUIREMENTS

LACEF is a small organization that relies on the flexibility of its staff but also tries to maximize the specific interests and talents of each. We seek someone who is team-oriented, willing to try new and different strategies and excited to help build the growing organization. Qualified applicants will possess the following attributes:

• Strong analytical skills, ability to identify policy issues, determine and articulate policy recommendations effectively to a variety of audiences
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, proven ability to multitask, prioritize, problem solve and meet deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A strong belief in LACEF’s mission and a desire to grow with the organization as it expands the breadth and depth of its work
• BA degree required; additional appropriate graduate level or legal training desirable.

COMPENSATION

LACEF is competitive in the nonprofit sector and is prepared to negotiate flexible work schedules, benefits and vacation to bring the right professional into the organization.

Application Instructions

Please submit a resume and cover letter that includes an overview of your work experience, highlighting positions related to health policy, strategic planning, and management of complex projects. All applications must be submitted by email to ltbustillos@lacefkids.org and will be received until the position has been filled. Anticipated start date is targeted for August 1, 2011.