Episode 107: Robert Dingenary
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(May 14, 2012) Does a teacher have to be a science whiz to be a leader in transforming a campus to be STEM focused? Apparently not. Meet Robert Dingenary, a ninth grade English teacher in a low-wealth, high minority school, who volunteered to lead a STEM club when no one else wanted to take it on. And with strong administrative support, his ninth-graders are building a model solar airplane. In this interview, Robert talks how he got this program started, the support he’s getting from the community and how his students have latched on. Robert is interviewed by Nilka Avilés, Ed.D. Send comments to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Sign up to receive free e-mail notices when new episodes are available.

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See resource links and show notes. (14.9 MB; 16:08 min.)

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Resources

The Need for Minority High Schools with a STEM Focus
by Nilka Avilés, Ed.D., IDRA Newsletter

Diversifying the STEM Pool – Revisiting the Recruitment of Underrepresented Students in STEM Careers
by Paula Martin Johnson, M.A., IDRA Newsletter

Expanding Underrepresented Minority Participation – America ’s Science and Technology Talent at the Crossroads
National Academy of Sciences

Engage to Excel: Producing One Million Additional College Graduates with Degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics 
President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST)

Prepare and Inspire: K-12 Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) for America ’s Future 
President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST)

IDRA South Central Collaborative for Equity 

Related podcasts

Creating a STEM Focused School Part 1 – April 13, 2012

Principal on Creating a College Going Culture – March 24, 2011

Creating Dynamic Math Classrooms – September 8, 2010

Teaching Opportunities through Discovery on Science – May 19, 2008

Fostering Gender Equity in the Classroom – March 23, 2007

Access to Higher Levels of Mathematics – May 30, 2007

Show Notes

* Robert offers an overview of his work with the students in the STEM club.

* Robert explains how the students are excited and inspired by their STEM activities, noting their “explorer-type attitude” and willingness to take risks.

* Robert considers how schools can increase the number of minority students in the STEM fields.

* Robert talks about the support that the faculty at his school, parents, nearby institutions, and community organizations have provided to the club.

* Robert shares his own motivation for getting involved in the club and encourages other educators to do the same, including those who -- like himself -- don’t have formal training in the STEM fields.

Show length: 16:08

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