Dr. Alba Ortiz

Professor Emeritus | University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Alba Ortiz

Dr. Alba Ortiz is one of the nation's leading experts on questions of special education for English language learners (ELLs).  In this in-depth interview with Colorín Colorado, Dr. Ortiz discusses challenges related to special education identification, ideas for making ELL families an integral part of all decisions related to students, and best practices for instruction. This interview is part of Colorín Colorado’s resource section on special education and ELLs, created in partnership with the National Education Association.

Biography

Dr. Alba Ortiz is Professor of Special Education and Director of the Office of Bilingual Education at University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Ortiz received her Ph.D. in Special Education Administration from the University of Texas in 1976. Dr. Ortiz is a nationally recognized expert on the education of linguistically and culturally diverse learners with disabilities. In 1992, she served as the President of the International Council for Exceptional Children. In 1994, she was awarded the President's Achievement Award by the National Association for Bilingual Education. She recently co-chaired the Exceptional Needs Committee for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and is currently a member of the National Education Research Policies and Priorities Board.

Acknowledgements

This video interview was made possible by a generous grant from the National Education Association.