Dr. Beth Tarasawa

Dr. Beth Tarasawa is committed to using data-driven insights to transform education and eliminate structural barriers to achieve equitable outcomes for all students. Beth oversees the Center for School & Student Progress and Collaborative for Student Growth. These research teams are devoted to advancements in assessment and growth measurement, answering fundamental questions to inform policy and practice, and drive educational innovation.

Beth’s research focuses on issues related to educational equity, particularly those concerning social class, race, and linguistic diversity. Her work has been featured by PBS’s NewsHour, Children’s Institute, The Hechinger Report, The Atlantic, Education Week, and New America.

Prior to joining NWEA, she was a faculty member at Washington State University and St. Norbert College.

Beth earned her PhD and a master’s in sociology of education with a concentration in education policy at Emory University. Passionate about community engagement, Beth serves the region as a volunteer and advocate for Open School East, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, Friends of the Children, Resolutions Northwest, Portland Housing Center, and Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon.