David Stroupe to Receive Gloria J. Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award

(January 10, 2024, Washington, D.C.) – AACTE (American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education) today announced David Stroupe, Ph.D., associate professor of STEM education and director of research of the USTEM Hub at the University of Utah, as the 2024 recipient of the AACTE Gloria J. Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award for Growing and Sustaining Student-Centered Science Classrooms.

The Gloria J. Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award, named in honor of the prominent American pedagogical theorist and teacher educator, recognizes an author or book that significantly contributes to the knowledge base of educator preparation. The award, overseen by the AACTE Committee on Research and Dissemination, acknowledges those who offer a fresh lens on current assumptions or practices, reorient thinking in the field and show potential for significant impact on policy or practice in educator preparation. Stroupe will be presented with the award during AACTE’s 2024 Annual Meeting Feb. 16–18 in Aurora/Denver, Colo.

“It is my pleasure to present David Stroupe with AACTE’s Gloria J. Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award,” said Lynn M. Gangone, AACTE president and CEO. "His insights driven from years of experience and research poured into his book is sure to inform science education, which benefits both teacher education and students."

Stroupe’s research is multifaceted, primarily focusing on innovative and inclusive teaching methods. He advocates for transforming classrooms into dynamic science practice communities, leveraging insights from Science, Technology and Society (STS), as well as the History and Philosophy of Science (HPS), to explore how power dynamics, knowledge sharing and agency can address issues of epistemic injustice in education. Additionally, Stroupe delves into the professional growth of novice teachers, analyzing how they adapt to and learn from diverse educational environments. His work also includes examining the role of teacher education programs in fostering the development of these educators. Before his current role, Stroupe applied his biology background in secondary education, teaching life science for four years.

“This book is an accessible, insightful and needed contribution to the field of not just science education but to teacher education as a whole,” said Douglas B. Larkin, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Montclair State University.

“We’re incredibly proud of Dr. Stroupe’s forward-thinking new book and the national recognition it’s receiving, which only underlines how the University of Utah is emerging as a changemaker in cutting-edge, student-centered STEM education and curriculum development," said Frankie Santos Laanan, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Education at the University of Utah. "The STEM scholars of today and the STEM teachers of the future can be found here on our campus, and the College of Education is a synergistic and committed partner in preparing 21st century K-12 teachers to answer Stroupe’s call to create more just and equitable classrooms.” 

"This is the most practical how-to guide I know of for motivating change toward more equitable classrooms. With inspiring classroom examples and teacher reflections, the book dispels persistent myths and provides end-of-chapter tips to spark conversation and action," said Nancy Butler Songer, Ph.D., associate provost of STEM Education at the University of Utah. 

About AACTE 

Established in 1948, AACTE is the leading voice in educator preparation. AACTE’s member institutions and programs prepare the greatest number of professional educators in the United States and its territories, including teachers, counselors, administrators, and college faculty. These professional educators are prepared for careers in PK-12 classrooms, colleges and universities, state and governmental agencies, policy institutes, and non-profit organizations. The AACTE alliance of colleges and universities and educator preparation programs collaborates with members and partners to advance the field of education by prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and engaging in research-based inquiry, advocacy, and innovative practice. Learn more at aacte.org.