However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the value of working in partnership at all levels, and especially with school professionals, to address the complexity and range of issues and problems facing elementary and secondary education. At an institutional and senior policy level, the University collaborates with other segments of California education through the California Education Round Table and other voluntary associations to support statewide efforts for the benefit of students and teachers in the schools. At a local level, University personnel collaborate with educators, and community members to conduct research and address policy issues critical to teaching and learning, curriculum, and other school reform efforts. At both the systemwide and local levels, the University sponsors partnerships that support professional networks for teachers that facilitate their professional growth and enable them to work individually and collectively for change. In ways like this, the University is building on the existing expertise in schools and helping the state develop a more concerted and more comprehensive approach to school reform.
Partnership brings mutual benefits and support.
The University of California has been richly rewarded in significant ways from its involvement and collaboration with K-12. By allowing the vitality and wealth of challenges faced by schools and communities to influence the University's research and programmatic goals, the University community strengthens its capacity not only to serve schools but also the University's own students better. Collaboration with the schools brings an important source of perspectives that enhance our understanding of educational processes. It broadens our conceptions of teaching and learning especially in diverse settings, expands our views of research, opens new contexts for questions and understanding, and connects University faculty, staff, and students first-hand to one of the most pressing challenges of our society, our educational system. Educational Research, Policy, and Educational Decision Making that inform the field of education, the design of educational programs, and policy.