AERA 2026 is just around the corner. We invite you to join us for the NAEP Studies SIG sessions — two opportunities to connect with colleagues, learn from leaders in the field, and engage in meaningful dialogue about how NAEP can become even more relevant to your work.

NAEP Studies SIG Business Meeting

Friday, April 10, 7:45–8:45 PM (PDT), InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, 6th Floor – Century

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Rebecca Norman Dvorak from the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB), who will share the latest updates on NAEP — including recent data collection efforts, evolving assessment frameworks, and emerging directions for research and policy — as well as the Governing Board's vision for the next generation of NAEP. This session offers a rare and direct opportunity to engage with the Governing Board. We will have dedicated time for open discussion, questions, and feedback on NAEP's future direction, uses, and role in national education policy. Please come prepared to share your perspectives — your voice matters.

We will also recognize this year's NAEP Studies SIG Outstanding Publication Award recipient, who will share their work.

All AERA members are welcome at the NAEP Studies SIG Business Meeting. SIG membership is not required. Whether you are a researcher, practitioner, policymaker, or student, we encourage you to attend and bring colleagues who may be interested in the nation's largest K–12 assessment program.

Deeper Insights Through NAEP Innovation 

Saturday, April 11, 3:45–5:15 PM (PDT), InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, 6th Floor – Broadway

This session features four papers showcasing innovative approaches that use assessment data to uncover disparities in opportunity, capture complex student experiences, and reveal patterns in achievement. By applying new methodologies to rich datasets, presenters demonstrate how NAEP evidence can inform more equitable policies and practices while pointing toward future directions for making NAEP even more relevant and practical for educators.

We hope to see you at both sessions. Come ready to connect, question, and contribute to the conversation about where NAEP goes from here.