Alissa Rausch
Assistant Research Faculty
Associate Director
Professional Biography
| Alissa Rausch, EdD is the Associate Director and Associate Research Faculty at the Marsico Institute for Early Learning at the University of Denver. Her work in technical assistance and higher education is informed by over 15 years of practice as an early childhood educator and leader working in inclusive preschool classrooms serving young children and their families. Alissa has had the privilege of partnering with state and community leaders, providers, families, and children from diverse backgrounds in their homes and in community settings. Currently, she is a technical assistant specialist and leadership team member on the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA). Her work includes supporting leaders to build and transform state systems via PDG B-5 grant work and federally funded technical assistance. She has supported state and local capacity for high-quality early care and education services, sustainable systems, and grassroots advocacy. Previously, she worked as faculty in an early childhood education and early childhood special education graduate personnel preparation. |
Areas of Research
inclusion
Early social-emotional
early childhood education
Multi-tiered System of Supports
national and regional innovation systems
Systemic Barriers in Education
Students with disabilities
Featured Publications
Rausch, A., Villines, M., Soto-Boykin, Z. & Joseph, J. (2025). Elevating Equity: The ECTA Inclusion Indicators as a catalyst for social change. Young Exceptional Children Special, 28, 19-30.
Performances
Rausch, A., & Riepe, B. (2025, May). Transforming inclusive education through the Inclusion Indicators. Think Inclusive [Podcast episode].