The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, or AACTE, has named University of Utah education professor David Stroupe its 2024 recipient of the  Gloria J. Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award for his groundbreaking “Growing and Sustaining Student-Centered Science Classrooms.”

An expert in STEM education, Stroupe is the research director of the USTEM Hub at the U. His multifaceted research focuses 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.

His book, “Growing and Sustaining Student-Centered Science Classrooms,” was published last year by Harvard Education Press.

“This is the most practical how-to guide I know of for motivating change toward more equitable classrooms,” said Nancy Butler Songer, the U’s associate provost of STEM education. “With inspiring classroom examples and teacher reflections, the book dispels persistent myths and provides end-of-chapter tips to spark conversation and action.”

The Gloria J. Ladson-Billings 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. Overseen by the AACTE Committee on Research and Dissemination, it 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 and Denver, Colorado.

“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,” said Lynn M. Gangone, AACTE president and CEO.

Stroupe’s research explores 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 as an academic, Stroupe taught middle school biology for four years.

“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 change maker in cutting-edge, student-centered STEM education and curriculum development,” said Frankie Santos Laanan, dean of the U’s College of Education. “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.”

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. Learn more at aacte.org.