REL Appalachia's mission is to provide high-quality research, analysis and technical assistance that help state and local education systems in the region achieve higher educational standards and close the achievement gap.

REL Appalachia will:

• Identify the region's ongoing research, training and technical assistance needs, including the effective dissemination of information (needs, research findings, etc.) to its prescribed audience
• Conduct research to address the needs of low-performing schools and student groups
• Strengthen the capacity of state and local education agencies in the region to identify and implement educational policies and practices that are supported by rigorous evidence