STEAM Belongs to Us: Co-Constructing STEAM Identities with Families
STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts Math) learning is most powerful when students see themselves and their families reflected in the work. This session explores how to build inclusive student culture by engaging families as partners in school programming. Presenters will share strategies for co-creating culturally relevant, hands-on STEAM experiences that welcome all students—especially English Learners and underrepresented groups. Participants will leave with tools to honor families’ expertise, foster student identity, and connect STEAM learning to students’ lives, cultivating curiosity, and confidence.
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Presented by
Educator
El Sol Science and Arts Academy
Chief Academic Officer
El Sol Santa Ana Science and Arts Academy
Jenny Zavala is Chief Academic Officer at El Sol Science and Arts Academy, a Spanish dual immersion school in Southern California. With over 20 years of experience, she has taught elementary and middle school, mentored teachers in curriculum and instruction, and led initiatives advancing teacher leadership. A certified Tier III GLAD® Trainer, she presents nationally on dual language and early learning. She champions teacher growth and advocacy as essential to advancing equity and academic success for underrepresented and marginalized students.
Executive Director
El Sol Science and Arts Academy
Monique Daviss has been the Executive Director of El Sol Science and Arts Academy since 2005. During her tenure the school has grown in both size and achievement. El Sol has been named the Hart Vision Charter School of the Year, National Center for Urban School Transformation Best Urban School, a California Distinguished School, a Title I Academic Achievement Awardee, a California Association for Bilingual Educators Seal of Excellence Awardee, a Campaign for Business & Education Excellence (CBEE) STAR awardee among other awards and recognitions. The school is a destination for groups interested in dual immersion programs and community school initiatives.
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Chapman University