IDRA

The Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to achieving equal educational opportunity for every child through strong public schools that prepare all students to access and succeed in college. Founded in 1973 by Dr. José A. Cárdenas, IDRA began with a singular focus on equitable funding for all public schools in Texas and has since broadened its scope to address excellence and equity in education across multiple dimensions.

IDRA is a recognized international leader in dropout prevention and research-based effective practice for emergent bilingual students. The organization works with thousands of K-12 educators, family, community and higher education partners to transform schools and change the face of education at the local, state, regional and national levels. IDRA propelled the reform of state funding systems, designed and implemented school-based programs that cut dropout rates by 98%, and developed programs that work for young learners. Everything IDRA does is built on its Quality Schools Action Framework, a comprehensive action model for graduating and preparing all students for college. In 2023, IDRA celebrated 50 years as a national pioneer in promoting excellent, equitable schooling for diverse students.