Jonathan Zaff, Ph.D Research Professor in Applied Human Development; Director of the CERES Institute for Children and Youth. Wheelock College of Education & Human Development
Do you want an empirical explanation for your work with at promise youth to use with funders, policy makers and potential partners? Join RAPSA’s June 28th webinar with Jonathan Zaff, Ph.D.
Jonathan has published more than 80 articles combining systematic, mixed methods social science methodologies and analysis with the authentic voices of young people to present an accurate depiction of who at promise young people are, what they can achieve, and what the most promising strategies are for providing supports for youth from historically disenfranchised communities, so that they emerge as thriving adults. If anecdotes aren’t enough to convince funders and policy makers, learn about the detailed research that Jonathan has undertaken to support students like yours.
His research focuses primarily on understanding how to create the conditions within which all youth thrive academically, socially, vocationally, and civically. His seminal work, “Don’t Call Them Dropouts” used rigorous mixed-methods science to survey and interview more than 3,000 out of school youth across the country about why they left school. The youth he surveyed rejected the dropout label. They perceived “dropout” as a sign of failure. Instead his work uncovered the adversities that young people faced and the strengths they expressed to meet life’s challenges. In short, Jonathan found at promise youth overwhelmed by “toxic environments”.
His follow up work has given an empirical basis to your at promise strategies. Success results from the supportive relationships in young people’s lives, a comprehensive approach to the needs and strengths of young people, and empowering young people to effect change over their own lives and the well-being of their communities.
Jonathan is intentional about presenting insights that are clear and actionable. He is passionate about informing, influencing, and inspiring those who have the courage and the power to act: public leaders, influencers, educators, and parents. You’ll find Jonathan’s research is particularly relevant to education leaders and advocates for the expansion and strengthening of youth-focused neighborhood assets – like dropout recovery schools, job training – and increasing the overall community’s capacity to support its young people.