While serving in the Peace Corps and as an English-language instructor in Morocco, Brian Seilstad learned firsthand how difficult it can be to learn English as an additional language. Since returning stateside in 2014, Seilstad, of Denton, Montana, has dedicated his time to helping refugees navigate the American school system.

Today, the third-year doctoral student in multicultural and equity studies is conducting dissertation research with a local program that supports adolescent English language learners. A graduate research assistant, Seilstad also is working with Leslie C. Moore, associate professor of teaching and learning, on her National Science Foundation-funded project, “Exploring Repertoires of Practice: Improving Informal Science Learning for Preschool Dual Language Learners.”

They partner with the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) to raise awareness about science programming among preschool children who are learning both their first language and English.