Institutional racism and white supremacy culture are embedded throughout our education system. Understanding how racism works can help us think systemically about making a difference. Participants will review the four levels of racism, explore how it is seen in education and labor, and identify ways to intervene for sustainable change in the lives of ourselves, individuals, schools, and communities.

Our core values are deeply held personal codes that reflect our ethics. Identifying and reflecting on our core values is an invaluable way to cultivate resilience and feel more effective and joyful in your work. Our sociopolitical identity is a central part of who we are and greatly influences how we move through the world. A transformational leader needs to start from a reflective space to effectively advocate for equitable systems. We will navigate several activities to encourage reflective practice that empower members as agents of change, to work towards strengthening racial and social justice in the classroom, workplace, and community.

This training introduces educators to the history of institutional racism and white privilege and explores how both have shaped and continue to affect society, including public education. During the training, participants work through scenarios that help them develop strategies for dealing with institutional racism. The course presentation and exercises help teach skills that, when applied in an education setting, contribute to a climate that encourages student success.

Of the many backlash that stemmed from the racial reckoning of 2020- none is as dangerous as revisionist history. Many states and school districts  have passed legislation banning what can be taught in public schools—from PreK-12 to Higher Ed. Participants in this session will learn the origin of the attacks and how to engage and respond. This session is for those who believe that all educators have a right to be honest on our history and those who want to make history.

Race has been an important factor in the way that institutions are designed and the work that they do as well as – either explicitly or implicitly – in many of our own personal and professional decisions. Engaging in transformative conversations about race allow us to have unifying – not polarizing – decisions, etc. and outcomes. Come learn and experience approaches and tactics to create a more race-centered, inclusive and equity-focused learning spacesfor peers and students.

Implicit bias refers to the attitudes, beliefs, or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner. These biases often manifest themselves in the forms of microaggressions and stereotypes. Everyone has implicit bias, but few of us are aware of it and how it impacts our daily experiences. This session will share real-life examples of different implicit bias, micro-aggressions, and stereotypes, how they impact our schools and locals; and provide practical strategies to address and confront them in ourselves and others.

Bringing together community stakeholders is important to identify inequities, address injustice and ensure the success of all children in a school or district. Come learn and share proven practices for establishing these partnerships and concrete steps to begin building those connections in their own communities back home.

Explore the rich history of LGBTQ+ culture and the barriers that have affected LGBTQ+ people’s love and expression. We’ll review basic terminology as well as discuss historical, current, and potential laws affecting LGBTQ+ adults and students. Session is facilitated by LGBTQ+ educators and will include interactive activities and space for discussion and questions. This session is appropriate for all members to come and learn, whether they are completely new to this topic or have experience.

Welcome to an intentional space created with you in mind to show up as all of who you are. We hope you find space to develop stronger relationships, get validation of your experiences and reflect. You will experience quality time to discuss impact of race and intersectionality on our lives and on the lives of educators.

An informal space and wonderful opportunity to reflect on on what you’ve heard, learned and feel emerging. Get comfortable… there might be games!

Making a difference in the lives of students and educators by organizing, bargaining, and advocating for equity in your district. Participants will be able to identify concrete action steps they can take to influence agreements, policy, and practices for their communities.