The increase in dual-language education
Alba discusses the growing popularity of dual-language education programs.
Providing support in the student’s strongest language
Alba discusses the importance of providing effective support in the student's strongest language.
Over-identification: Why ELLs may be referred to special education too soon
Alba explains why ELLs may end up in special education programs even when they need other kinds of support.
Making ELL parents a central part of the referral conversation and process
Alba offers ideas for welcoming ELL families into the referral process and prioritizing their feedback and concern.
Limited academic language in both languages
Alba discusses how having limited academic language skills in the primary language can look like a disability.
Just a kid from the south side of San Antonio
Alba talks about how and when she used Spanish and English at home and school while growing up in San Antonio.
Identifying student strengths
Alba discusses the importance of identifying student strengths as a step in addressing other needs.
How culture may impact behavior in the classroom
Alba discusses the ways that culture may impact behavior in a way that looks like a disability.
Dr. Alba Ortiz: Having enough data to look at progress over time
Dr. Alba Ortiz talks about the importance of having data that allows teams to examine student progress in different areas over time. You can see her complete video in our Meet the Experts section.
Gathering information for students who don’t have school records
Alba offers some ideas for gathering information about students who may not have prior school records.