Equity and Diversity

EDC is collaborating with three universities to study how classroom teachers in grades four through eight can provide access to a rigorous, standards-based curriculum to students with disabilities. Over five years, REACH is developing and studying instructional approaches that support all students as they engage in challenging content learning in language arts (EDC), mathematics (University of Puget Sound), science (University of Michigan), and social studies (University of Delaware). The project has a special focus on the discourse practices that students use in learning rigorous content.

Over five years, working with three school districts (New York Community District 15, Boston, and Albuquerque), the LINK-US Project developed, tested, and refined a model of professional development called STAR Tech (Supporting Teachers to Achieve Results by Integrating Technology into the Curriculum). The key components of the model include the STAR Cycle, in-class technical assistance, face-to-face workshops, and e-learning events.

Imagination Place! was a three-year project to develop an interactive, on-line design space for use in homes and informal settings by girls ages 8 to 14, although it is open to all. Using the latest Internet technologies, Imagination Place! engaged girls in collaborative design activities to explore the worlds of engineering and invention in their everyday lives.

In collaboration with community-based organizations, EDC improves the education and employment of Latina women and their families, and supports economic and community development in Waltham, Mass. Participants take courses in English, GED preparation, and computers, while developing life skills in the areas of child care, family advocacy, and community activism. They also explore career opportunities, moving into first-time jobs or improving their career prospects.

This project creates informal learning opportunities in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology, using the ancient African civilization of Nubia as the context. Components include an exhibit, educational materials (hands-on kits, videos, and discussion guides), a Web site, a CD-ROM, community outreach, and professional development programs for educators in museums, community groups, schools, and libraries.

CC&F/EDC used proven strategies to enhance Head Start’s efforts to include children with disabilities from birth to eight and their families. CC&F/EDC offered intensive consultation services, performed on-site interventions, provided college credit courses and skill-based training, and disseminated cutting-edge resources to Head Start programs across New England. Working with national, regional, state and community agencies and associations, CC&F/EDC built strategic alliances to support and maintain inclusive communities, while promoting the mental health of children, families, and staff.

This project designed a professional development model and materials that enabled teachers to successfully support students with disabilities in regular mathematics classrooms. The model included workshops, example lesson adaptations, and school-based planning groups. Project staff worked with schools in the greater Boston area that used standards-based middle school mathematics curricula, such as MathScape and Connected Mathematics.

In collaboration with EDC’s Center for Educational Resources and Outreach, EEC promotes and supports the Ford PAS program. Ford PAS includes an interdisciplinary high school curriculum that challenges students academically and develops their problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. We provide ongoing technical assistance for all schools and partners implementing Ford PAS by hosting an interactive Web site and toll-free hotline, designing and conducting an annual national networking and training conference, and offering professional development activities.

In collaboration with EDC’s Center for Educational Resources and Outreach, EEC has developed the Ford PAS program. Ford PAS includes an interdisciplinary high school curriculum that challenges students academically and develops their problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. The program links classroom learning to future opportunities in business, engineering, and technology, and motivates young people to succeed in college and careers. These links are forged through innovative partnerships with business, higher education, and the community.

In Phase 1 of this project, CC&F/EDC led the development of “Connections and Commitments: A Latino-based Framework for Early Childhood Educators.” “Connections and Commitments” identifies four key values in Latino culture and describes their implications for early childhood practice. In addition, CC&F/EDC designed an online bilingual resource to provide increased access to standards-based, culturally and linguistically responsive professional development materials and strategies for working with Latino children, families, and staff.