Three Oklahoma educators were recognized for their contributions to multicultural education and diversity efforts in Oklahoma at the Multicultural Education Institute (MEI), hosted virtually by the University of Central Oklahoma, March 5-6.
Emily Stratton, executive director of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, was honored as the 2021 MEI Citizen of the Year. Stratton was nominated for her advocacy for Oklahoma teachers of English language learners through the creation of a professional development program. Through her work, the program now provides online resources, effective strategies and problem-solving materials for classroom teachers in an online community of educators.
Her award nominator wrote, “Ms. Stratton has helped the foundation create many programs to support education in Oklahoma. However, her leadership of the Teachers of English Learners Pilot Program is what makes her especially deserving of this award."
"Her commitment to multiculturalism in education and community is an inspiration to many."
Alfonso Lopez, a paraprofessional for Oklahoma City Public Schools, received the Multicultural Bilingual Paraprofessional of the Year award.
Lopez serves ninth grade students in an algebra/newcomer classroom at Northwest Classen High School.
Alanna Milligan, a second grade teacher from Northern Hills Elementary in Edmond, Oklahoma, was awarded the Multicultural Teacher of the Year. She was nominated for her efforts to recognize and incorporate cultural education elements into various classroom lessons and materials throughout the past year.
MEI is held annually to assist teachers, future teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, students and community organizations to understand and implement strategies and programs that build cross-cultural appreciation and academic success for all students. The institute was first co-sponsored by UCO and Oklahoma City Public Schools in 1983.
For more information about MEI, visit www.uco.edu/mei.