THIS NEEDS TO BE A POLICY BRIEF. My topic is publicly funded preschool programs both nationally and locally (Indianapolis, Indiana). I have been focusing on lower income students and the disparities between socioeconomic status, race, rural vs. urban environments etc. in regard to preschool and long-term outcomes. A policy related to this topic must be identified. Below are the details of the requirements. Since policy briefs were not a choice in the dropdown box, I will upload example policy briefs.
Identify an existing federal or state policy that affects the service delivery system from a specific practice area. Then develop a 4- to 6-page policy brief that analyzes the policy and addresses implications in an effort to educate and influence decision makers. Keep in mind that it is critical to know the anticipated readers when writing a policy brief, so particular attention must be directed to the used of language and presentation. The completed brief should be visually and professionally appealing to a broad audience. Example policy briefs may be used as a framework, but these sources should be cited and referenced. The policy brief should incorporate at least four scholarly references and include existing data to support major assertions. Due to the unique structure of the policy brief, APA will only be required for formatting references.
Note: A policy brief will usually not include the author's name on the first page. Instead, put your name as an MSW Candidate, Indiana University School of Social Work in an appendix, along with a short bio of yourself. You must be sure that the policy brief does not appear to be a position of the university or the school.
As the signature assignment, your policy brief should incorporate the following components:
Executive Summary: Introduce the policy brief by clearly describing the focus and the purpose of the brief (why it is important); include a concise overview of what you are proposing
Identify and outline the policy to be addressed
Describe any relevant history and background of the policy, including past and current policies that have impacted the issue
Provide evidence that supports the policy analysis and position (use specific data to support your stance)
Discuss the policy issue from varying stakeholder perspectives as it relates to practice settings and other systems
Include what is working (strengths and opportunities) as well as potential or existing challenges related to the proposed policy position
Incorporate information on how the policy position promotes culturally responsive practice
Summarize policy recommendations based on the overall policy brief.
