About Geography of Education Policy Analysis Lab

Geography of Education Policy Analysis Lab at the University of Kansas is dedicated to supporting scholarship that explores the relationship between geography, education policy, and schooling practices. Our vision is to lead the way in applying geographic insights to educational policymaking, ensuring that spatial justice and educational equality are realities for all students and families.

GEPAL is founded on the premise that the physical and geographical context of education significantly influences policy outcomes and educational equity. By integrating geographic information systems (GIS), mixed methods GIS (MMGIS), and qualitative research, the Lab seeks to uncover how place and space shape—and are shaped by—educational policy. Our work aims to offer theoretical insights and practical solutions to make schools agents of spatial justice and equality.

Established by Bryan Mann and like-minded scholars, GEPAL emerged from a shared commitment to leverage geographic analysis for educational improvement. Recognizing the untapped potential of geographic perspectives in educational policy research, the Lab was formed to organize research efforts, foster collaboration, and advance understanding of how geography influences education policy and practice.