“Creating a STEM Focused School Part 2” IDRA Classnotes Podcast Episode 107
Does a teacher have to be a science whiz to be a leader in transforming a campus to be STEM focused? Apparently not. Meet Robert Dingenary, a ninth grade English teacher in a low-wealth, high minority school, who volunteered to lead a STEM club when no one else wanted to take it on. And with strong administrative support, his ninth-graders are building a model solar airplane. In this interview, Robert talks how he got this program started, the support he’s getting from the community and how his students have latched on.

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Science Instructional Strategies for English Learners ~ A Guide for Elementary and Secondary Grades
A practical resource with seven research-based strategies for instruction of English learners in science with teaching learning premises, research support, essential teacher competencies, and steps for strategy implementation – along with a matrix of techniques for implementation. Customized professional development also is available.

Fair Funding Now! for Texas Education
In 2011, the Texas legislature cut education funding for the first time in four decades. Instead of ending funding disparities, they walked away – pushing millions of Texas children aside. But communities across the state are taking action to make sure that schools are equipped to guarantee that all children graduate ready for college and career. Get tools, handouts, news and more resources at IDRA’s Courageous Connections – Fair Funding Now! website.

Two-Way Dual Language Immersion Programs
For English learners to have an equitable education, programs must be in place that value languages other than English as means for learning the academic concepts required of successful students. In this newsletter article, Kristin Grayson, M.Ed., outlines how a two-way dual language immersion program can help make this a reality for English learners.