Ashley Simpson Baird

Ashley Simpson Baird, Ph.D. is the founder and principal of Merit Research, Policy, and Evaluation which provides customized, equity-focused solutions for schools and educational non-profits. Formerly, she was a teacher at Briya Public Charter School and Board Chair at The Next Step/el Próximo Paso Public Charter School. Dr. Simpson Baird can be reached at ashley@meritrpe.com.

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Written By Ashley Simpson Baird

Articles | COVID-19 | Education | Student experience

D.C.’s adult learners during the pandemic: Results from a Fall 2020 survey

The disproportionate health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 health pandemic have been widely documented. In Washington, D.C., adult learners suddenly found themselves pivoting to virtual learning while simultaneously navigating heightened concerns about their employment, health, and housing. In May 2020, adult charter schools in D.C. conducted a survey of learners to…

May 4, 2021 | Ashley Simpson Baird
Articles | Education | Student experience

The impact of COVID-19 on D.C.’s adult learners: Results from a Spring 2020 survey

Washington, D.C. is one of the highest-earning, most educated cities in the country, yet almost 20 percent of families with children under 18 live below the poverty line and 45,000 adult residents do not have a high school diploma. Adult-serving public charter schools in D.C. reduce these disparities by working with adult learners to put them on a path toward economic prosperity.

September 30, 2020 | Ashley Simpson Baird