A Word from the Directors,
At the Thompson Policy Institute (TPI), we seek to be a place where inclusivity flourishes and positive changes take root. Our unwavering commitment lies in advancing research, policy, and practice in the field of disability. With a heartfelt mission to foster inclusive communities, we strive to create spaces where individuals with disabilities can not only thrive but also fully participate. We firmly believe that every person deserves to be embraced and celebrated regardless of their abilities. Therefore we work alongside the disability community to promote understanding, support, and equal opportunities for all. At TPI, we are driven by the possibility of a society where individuals with disabilities can lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions.
Through our interdisciplinary approach, we strive to create meaningful change by conducting research, providing training and resources, and advocating for inclusive policies. As part of our core practice, we collaborate with educators, policymakers, researchers, and community members to foster a deeper understanding of disability and promote equity and inclusion.
Whether you are a student, professional, advocate, or simply someone interested in disability issues, we invite you to join us. Explore our work, engage with our resources, and engage with us in our efforts to create a more inclusive society. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities and access to all aspects of life.
Vision
We work towards a world in which all people in the disability community thrive.
Mission
We work alongside the disability community to develop and improve equitable, accessible, and nurturing learning and community environments for all through integrated research, policy, and practice.
Core Beliefs
• We believe in inclusivity for all, centering those with disabilities.
• We believe that the intersection of disability, race, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and other identities uniquely impacts how a person moves through the world.
• We believe that individuals with disabilities are experts in their own experiences, and must inform creating innovative and effective living, learning, and working environments.
• We believe in science and the systematic gathering and analysis of data to inform and improve our work.
• We believe in collaborative innovation as the means to adapting cutting-edge practices to the unique needs of schools, agencies, and families.
Funders
Community Partners
TPI is involved in many research and project-based collaborations and partnerships. These collaborative efforts are an important component of many TPI activities, including conducting research, disseminating critical information to key stakeholders, and supporting community-wide change.
Partners shown above: William & Nancy Thompson Family Foundation; Chapman University Attallah College of Educational Studies; The California State University; California Council on Teacher Education; Collaboration for Effective Educator Development, Accountability, and Reform (CEEDAR Center); Dayle McIntosh Center; Department of Rehabilitation (DOR); Regional Center of Orange County (ROCC); Orange County Department of Education (OCDE); Multi-Tiered System of Supports (OCDE); Goodwill of Orange County; Machine Learning and Assistive Technology (MLAT); Padres Unidos; Project SEARCH High School Transition Program; Marybelle and Sebastian P. Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University; IATSE Local 504; WestEd; Schoolwide Integrated Framework for Transformation Education Center (SWIFT); The Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Thompson Autism Center at CHOC Children's; Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders at University of Missouri; TLC Public Charter School; UCI Center for Statistical Consulting; Easterseals of Southern California; Children & Families Commission of Orange County; California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD)