Session 5 1:30 PM - Colorado Association of Science Teachers

Session 3 10:15—11:10Featured SpeakerJustin DarnellJustin Darnell has been teaching in Denver PublicSchools for the past five years. During his time inDPS he has utilized science inquiry and efficientlyembedded research-based instructional practicesto increase achievement for students from nondominantgroups. His school is highly impactedby classically described ―at-risk‖ populations (96%Hispanic; 95% free/reduced lunch), but he hasdemonstrated that identification within a nondominantgroup does not prevent success whenstudents receive a quality education. Justin alsohas extensive experience in designing and leadingquality professional development for teachers thathas immediate impact on their classrooms andstudents. Currently he is completing a doctoratein Leadership for Educational Equity at the Universityof Colorado Denver, and hopes to promotethe need to increase quality educational opportunityfor all students regardless of race, gender,ability, or economic status.Raising Achievement and Proficiency of Studentsfrom Non-Dominant GroupsThe number of students identified as ―at risk‖ has dramatically increased across our state.However, this term is unfair to these students who are only ―at risk‖ for receiving a lowerquality education. Justin Darnell, the 2010 Colorado Teacher of the Year, has demonstratedthat a student’s identification within a certain demographic does not prevent themfrom finding success when receiving an equitable education. He will discuss Colorado’scurrent trends and offer suggestions for altering perceptions within your classrooms,schools, and districts. Come prepared to share your thoughts and ideas about how we canwork together to meet the needs of our most underserved populations.36