Latino Conference Thursday and Friday in Laramie |  
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April 17, 2007 -- Meeting the needs of Wyoming's Latino students is the focus of a free public conference Thursday and Friday in Laramie.
Nationally- and regionally-known presenters will share research and lessons learned from the field during "Latinos in the Diaspora: Education in Rural Settings." Leonard Valverde, executive director of Arizona State University's Hispanic Border Leadership Institute, is the conference's keynote speaker.
"The speakers' insights will provide a foundation for a more focused discussion on the issues facing Wyoming students and educators," says Francisco Rios, University of Wyoming professor of educational studies. "The primary focus really is what is going on here in the state of Wyoming -- how can we better serve these student populations."
Valverde will discuss "The Education of Latinos: No Matter Where They Reside, Their Education Must be Redefined." His talk is part of the conference's opening address Thursday, April 19, at 6:30 p.m. at The Library restaurant, 1622 E. Grand Avenue.
Claudia Peralta Nash of Boise State University will provide a general overview of rural Latino education.
"Redesigning schools must start with two human characteristics that fundamentally determine the effectiveness and success of educational programs -- a positive mind set and a collective effort," Valverde says. "This session will elaborate on these two key constructs and identify other important factors in the redefinition of today's schools for tomorrow's global multicultural workforce."
More presentations and discussions will be at the Ramada Center Hotel, 2313 Soldier Springs Road, beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, April 20. Among other regional speakers is Leticia Alvarez, UW Department of Educational Studies post-doctoral research associate.
A panel comprised of UW students, educators, community activists and parents will discuss specific ways to implement what participants have learned in Wyoming, says Rios.
A collaborative of UW and community groups interested in the education of Latino students hosts the public event, with support from a USA Funds grant. Among the sponsors are UW Chicano Studies Program, UW Department of Educational Studies, UW Hispanic Student Programs and La Radio Montanesa (KOCA 93.5 FM).
The program is available to 75 participants, meals included. To register e-mail susana@uwyo.edu or for more information about the event, contact Rios at (307) 766-4055 or frios@uwyo.edu.
Posted on Tuesday, April 17, 2007
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