Every data point tells a human story. And for too many students in Tulsa, housing instability is quietly standing in the way of their success. That’s why ImpactTulsa’s Research & Data Team, led by Dr. Delia Kimbrel, in partnership with TPS, Oklahoma Policy Inst., Asemio, BEST and Tulsa’s Eviction Data Working Group is transforming eviction data into a catalyst for change, connecting the dots between where families live, how often students are missing school, and what kind of support they need most.
When a family is at risk of eviction, the impact ripples far beyond the home. It often shows up in classrooms through chronic absenteeism, drops in academic performance, and higher levels of stress for students. But in order to intervene effectively, we first have to see the full picture.
Through innovative data, ImpactTulsa is making the connections between local eviction information and school attendance. This approach helps identify which neighborhoods and schools are most affected, and how systems can take earlier, more coordinated action to support families before learning is disrupted.
With timely insights, schools can proactively connect families to housing resources. Community partners can better target support where it’s needed most. And local leaders can advocate for smarter policies that help keep students housed, healthy, and in school.
This effort is part of a broader citywide vision: helping 100,491 young people in Tulsa reach economic mobility by the year 2030. Because we know that academic success doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It starts with stable housing, safe environments, and systems intentionally designed to support the whole child.
When we understand the real-world barriers our students and families are facing, we’re better equipped to build solutions that truly work and create a Tulsa where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Want to see how data becomes action in real time? Watch Dr. Kimbrel break down the findings—and the hope they spark—in her new vlog episode. She walks you through the arc of data-informed action for Tulsa’s student eviction prevention strategy, and invites you to join us and the partners working to improve housing-security.