Jim Soland

Jim Soland's projects emphasize collaborative solutions for enhancing educational outcomes through the lens of measurement and policy. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia's School of Education and Human Development, he delves into the intricate relationship between educational and psychological measurement, practice, and policy. His research is particularly focused on understanding how measurement decisions can influence the estimation of treatment effects and the growth of psychological and social-emotional skills. Additionally, he is keenly interested in the detection and quantification of test and survey disengagement, a critical area that impacts the validity of educational assessments. Soland's work has garnered attention and recognition from esteemed organizations such as CASEL, the Brookings Institute, and the New York Times, underscoring the significance and impact of his research contributions. His academic journey is marked by a Ph.D. in Education from Stanford University, where he honed his expertise in educational measurement and policy analysis. Before his tenure at UVA, Jim Soland accumulated a wealth of practical experience in various educational and policy-oriented roles. He began his career as a classroom teacher, which provided him with firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities within educational settings. His subsequent role as a policy analyst at the RAND Corporation allowed him to engage with complex policy issues, further enriching his understanding of the educational landscape. Additionally, he served as a senior fiscal analyst at the Legislative Analyst's Office, where he contributed to the development of fiscal policies impacting education. Jim Soland is also affiliated with the assessment nonprofit NWEA, where he collaborates with other experts to advance the field of educational assessment. His commitment to improving educational practices through rigorous research and policy analysis continues to drive his work, making significant contributions to the field of educational psychology and measurement.