Massachusetts Education Policy Fellowship

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***NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2023-24 SCHOOL YEAR***

The Massachusetts Education Policy Fellowship (MEPF) is a professional development program that brings together a diverse group of individuals from across the education landscape to understand the policy process and advance a more equitable education system. MEPF emerged from the longstanding Massachusetts Education Policy Fellowship Program (MA EPFP), a site affiliate of the Institute for Educational Leadership's Education Policy Fellowship Program™ founded in 1964.

Through this ten-month program, Fellows will: 

     -  Learn about the meaning of policy and how past and current policies have shaped the education system within Massachusetts and across the nation.

     -  Build a deeper appreciation of their own leadership strengths and skills.

     - Identify opportunities to improve the education system through policy, both as individual actors and as part of broader coalitions seeking change. 

The fellowship offers a unique opportunity for individuals interested in education to engage in discussions and activities focused on important national and state policy issues. The core of the program is a series of monthly seminars featuring an impressive array of guest speakers who introduce fellows to a range of perspectives on education policy.

Fellows also engage in a variety of other learning experiences throughout the year. The program begins in the fall with a retreat that promotes team-building and offers a chance for fellows to reflect on their personal leadership styles. A two-day tour of Massachusetts civil rights history offers fellows a chance to reflect on the roots of the current education system and efforts that have been made over time to advance equity in that system. An outing to the State House allows fellows to delve more deeply into the Massachusetts policy-making process. Participants also have the chance to look beyond the Massachusetts context during a spring visit to Washington, D.C.
 

Sponsorship

Fellows are typically sponsored by their employers, who play an important role in the success of the program. Participation benefits sponsors by exposing employees to networking opportunities and significant professional development experiences. Sponsors typically pay program fees and travel costs, as outlined below, and facilitate attendance by fellows at seminars and conferences.

The anticipated costs for the 2023-24 year are as follows:

$2,900 Program fee
$1,000 Estimated travel & lodging expenses [note that the actual amount may be lower than this estimate, depending on the availability of in-person events as well as your travel plans and preferences]

 

Application Process

We select up to 30 fellows each year to participate in the program. Bringing in fellows from a wide range of backgrounds and professional experiences enriches discussions and facilitates career development; therefore, applicants from a wide range of education-related positions are encouraged to apply. Successful applicants typically have some experience in the education field and are interested in expanding their leadership and policy knowledge and skills. 

Applications will be accepted through June 16, but we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. The application process is designed for working professionals and intended to take no more than an hour. If you would like to learn more before applying, reach out to Rennie Center Deputy Director Laura Cinelli.

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