Free Dual Language Program Symposium Coming to TAMIU Saturday, Feb. 6

The P-16 Council for Educational Excellence will host a Dual Language Program Symposium on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Texas A&M International University’s Student Center Ballroom.

The Symposium is intended is provide information to Laredoans and surrounding community members about dual language programs—how they function and what benefits they offer children.

It is offered free of charge and Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available to those in the education field. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Advance Symposium registration is required. To register or receive more information, contact Martha S. Treviño at 956-326-2908 or e-mail martha@tamiu.edu. On-site registration is also possible, but the lunch serving cannot be guaranteed.

Symposium keynote speaker will be Dr. Elena Izquierdo, associate professor at the University of Texas at El Paso’s College of Education.

Parents, higher education faculty, dual language public school educators and members of the community will participate in panel discussions and provide perspectives on dual language programs.

The Symposium is designed to share best practices, present research data, and encourage discussion among parents, educators, practitioners, and community members. Breakout sessions will provide additional information on dual language programs at both Laredo Independent School District and United Independent School District.

The Symposium is open to parents, educational leaders, employers and practitioners from Webb, Jim Hogg and Zapata counties and throughout the State.

Texas’ P-16 initiatives are regionally based. Membership includes local and regional K-12, higher education, and business and community leaders. Regional P-16 Councils work to address the complex issues in local education systems, and promote a college-going culture intended to strengthen the states’ progress towards the goals of “Closing the Gaps.”

“Closing the Gaps by 2015,” adopted in October 2000 by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), targets closing educational gaps in Texas as well as between Texas and other states. Its four goals are to close the gaps in student participation, student success, excellence and research.

For additional information, visit the THECB Web site at thecb.state.tx.us

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu