Joy Lorenzo Kennedy, EDC senior research scientist, leads rigorous longitudinal and cross-sectional studies focused on identifying effective strategies to improve outcomes for preK-12 learners. Her current research includes program evaluations and focuses on educational technology, language and literacy development, STEM, family engagement, and play-based learning. A What Works Clearinghouse Certified Reviewer, she is highly skilled in cost analysis.

Kennedy is proficient in quantitative and qualitative research methods and develops innovative instruments such as child assessments, family engagement measures, and focus group frameworks. She leads La Fuerza-STEM—R&D to examine a strategy to support STEM learning at home—and an efficacy study of the Mission US online role-playing game.

Recently, Kennedy led two randomized controlled trials that found an intervention with videos and games increased children’s ability to use informational text to answer real-world questions. As a member of the REL Northeast & Islands team, she co-leads the U.S. Virgin Islands Partnership to Strengthen the Early Childhood Workforce.

Kennedy holds a PhD in Applied Psychology (Developmental Program) from New York University and an ScB (BS) degree in Psychology from Brown University.