District Interview Introduction Letter/Email

Evaluation of the Implementation of the Rural and Low-Income Schools (RLIS) Program

Introduction Letter for RLIS District Coordinator Interview

[to be sent in late January]

Dear [District RLIS Coordinator]:

We are writing to inform you that the U.S. Department of Education’s Policy and Program Studies Service is conducting an implementation study of the Rural and Low-Income Schools (RLIS) Program. The study is being conducted by Berkeley Policy Associates (BPA), under contract with the Department. Study findings will provide useful information on the RLIS program to the Department and Congress as we approach reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.

The study will identify how states and LEAs use program funds, assess the progress states and LEAs are making toward program goals, and gain insights into what factors act as facilitators and barriers to meeting state RLIS goals. In addition to analyzing achievement data, BPA is conducting telephone interviews in your state, one of nine selected for more in-depth analysis of the implementation of the RLIS program. As one of five districts in your state selected for a telephone interview, you will be contacted by BPA to schedule the interview. We estimate the interview will take about an hour, and will include the following topics:

• Program implementation;

• District priorities for RLIS;

• Uses of program funds;

• Use of guidance and technical assistance provided by the state to RLIS districts; and

• Suggestions for program improvement.

Responses to this data collection will be used only for statistical purposes. The reports prepared for this study will summarize findings across the sample and will not associate responses with a specific district or individual. We will not provide information that identifies you or your district to anyone outside the study team, except as required by law.

We thank you and your staff for supporting this study. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact Kay Magill, the study’s project director at Berkeley Policy Associates (510-465-7884 or [email protected]).

Sincerely,

Director Director

Policy and Program Studies Service School Support and Technology Programs