This talk explores the journey of bilingual students facing neurobiological challenges, such as dyslexia, in their pursuit of literacy across languages. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and a resilient young learner named Maria, Usero-González delves into the complexities of the intersection of bilingual education and special education. The talk emphasizes the importance of tailored assessments and interventions, considering both the native and target languages, while championing a linguistically and culturally responsive pedagogy. By fostering awareness, equipping educators, and involving families, we can reshape the narrative and provide every student with the tools to shine in their educational journey.
Dr. Francisco “Paco” Usero-González, an Assistant Professor in the Bilingual Education Program at Sam Houston State University, has 15 years of diverse K-12 educational experience across Spain, the UK, France, and the USA. He holds multiple BA and MEd degrees in Education and a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction. He has garnered recognition and awards for his contributions to education, with a research focus on neurobiological specific learning disabilities and the needs of Spanish-speaking emergent bilingual students. His passion for multilingual and multicultural education is evident through innovative instructional technology exploration, family engagement, and the implementation of the Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) to empower Hispanic bilingual students. Driven by a dedication to advancing the field, he shares insights through publications in esteemed journals and presentations at national and international conferences. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx