About the PDI

The National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity (NAPE) is currently accepting proposals for its annual Professional Development Institute (PDI), April 21-23, 2015. The conference is being held at The Westin, 400 Courthouse Square, Alexandria, VA.

E2=P3 (Equation for Excellence=Partnerships, Policy, Practice

Focused on building the capacity, knowledge, and skills of both state education administrators and local educators, the PDI brings together the most current researchers and practitioners in educational equity to share best practices and build a learning community of professionals.

The globalization of the American economy has increased the need for a highly skilled workforce in new and emerging high-skill, high-demand careers. With the current focus on preparing students for college and careers, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, ensuring that every student is engaged in learning is critical. The current economic climate of the nation illustrates that many Americans are struggling to gain the necessary skills to enter high-skill, high-demand employment. For those facing multiple barriers to education and training—such as single parents, low-income individuals, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency—the path to economic security is proving to be ever more challenging.

To address these realities in a meaningful and effective manner, NAPE is requesting proposals for the 2015 PDI on the following themes:

1. Public and Private Partnerships to Advance Access, Equity, and Diversity in Education and the Workforce
2. New Research on Advancing Underrepresented Students in the K-20 Education Pipeline, Especially in STEM and/or in Career and Technical Education
3. Effective Practices, Programs, or Policies to Address Student Achievement and Outcome Gaps
4. Strategies for Increasing Access, Retention and Transition of Special Population Students in Education and Employment – College AND Career Readiness

Audience

This conference is designed for educators, workforce development professionals and advocates dedicated to removing barriers to equal opportunity in education and the workforce. The program will highlight strategies and solutions for preparing a diverse workforce for high-wage, high-demand careers. Proposals should be drafted to address the following audiences:

• School Counselors and Student Support Services Personnel
• CTE and STEM Faculty, Teachers, Administrators, and Researchers
• State and Local Special Populations, Nontraditional, and Equity Coordinators
• Workforce Development and TANF Staff/Community-Based Organization Staff
• Policy/Think Tank Advocates and Educational Equity Researchers
• Professional Development and Resource Project Staff
 

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