Whether you're looking to dive into collaborative discussions or engage in thought-provoking sessions led by experts, the network has tailored programs to suit your interests and professional development goals.

Benefits of Participation

Collaborate with colleagues from across the country on topics directly impacting student achievement.
Kick off the school year with relevant and impactful professional development.
Engage in meaningful collaboration and discussions on tailored topics.

Logistics

Groups meet 4-5 times during from Sep-Dec.
All session are 1 hr.
All sessions are virtual and content is managed through Canvas courses.

Communities of Practice	Impact Institutes
Join Leaders Connect's Communities of Practice, where educators collaborate on topic-based discussions addressing common instructional challenges. These groups, facilitated by educators from across our network, aim to generate meaningful solutions and insights. Logistics: - To participate, please complete the Interest Registration form below by Sept 13, indicating your preferred topics and available dates/times. - Groups will be assigned and scheduled by Sept 27 based on the topics you identify. - Groups will meet 5 times from October-December. - All sessions are 45 minutes.	The Impact Institutes feature interactive, hands-on sessions designed to enhance transformational practices in education. Led by experienced facilitators, these workshops emphasize collaboration and actionable strategies, equipping participants with the tools to drive impactful change in their schools and districts. Logistics: - Each institute meets between September-December. - All sessions are 45 minutes. - Participants can choose from 2 cohorts for each topic, based on the dates/times that best fit your schedule. See below for more details on this summer's Impact Institutes.

Communities of Practice

Impact Institutes

Join Leaders Connect's Communities of Practice, where educators collaborate on topic-based discussions addressing common instructional challenges. These groups, facilitated by educators from across our network, aim to generate meaningful solutions and insights.

Logistics:

- To participate, please complete the Interest Registration form below by Sept 13, indicating your preferred topics and available dates/times.

- Groups will be assigned and scheduled by Sept 27 based on the topics you identify.

- Groups will meet 5 times from October-December.

- All sessions are 45 minutes.

The Impact Institutes feature interactive, hands-on sessions designed to enhance transformational practices in education. Led by experienced facilitators, these workshops emphasize collaboration and actionable strategies, equipping participants with the tools to drive impactful change in their schools and districts.

Logistics:

- Each institute meets between September-December.

- All sessions are 45 minutes.

- Participants can choose from 2 cohorts for each topic, based on the dates/times that best fit your schedule.

See below for more details on this summer's Impact Institutes.

Communities of Practice Details

This fall, CoPs will be grouped based on topics chosen by participants. Interested colleagues should enter their information on this spreadsheet linked below identifying their interested topic(s) and other details.

Interest Registrations should be completed by Sept 13 and groups will be determined and scheduled by Sept 27.

Impact Institute Details

Please see below for more details on this summer's offerings. Click the button/link below to choose the topics and dates that work for you!

Topic and Session Details	Learning Objectives
New Teachers: Flourishing in the First Year Embark on your teaching journey with confidence through the New Teachers: Thriving in Your First Year Impact Institute. This session is tailored for educators new to the classroom, providing a supportive environment to connect with peers facing similar challenges. Participants will gain access to valuable resources, engage in discussions about building meaningful classroom learning environments, and explore best practices for effective instructional design. By sharing experiences and solutions, new teachers will build a foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in education. Cohort 1: R Oct 3, R Nov 7, R Dec 5 -- 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 10, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 4:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM CT	Identify and capitalize on strategies that foster a positive and effective learning environment. Design instructional plans that are engaging, inclusive, and aligned with educational standards. Develop a professional network with fellow new teachers to enhance ongoing collaboration and support.
Conditions for Collaboration: Cultivating Excellence in Teams Supporting the Conditions for Collaboration: Cultivating Excellence in Teams is designed specifically for school building leaders, district administrators, and instructional coaches. This Impact Institute focuses on the critical elements of building and sustaining collaborative environments within educational settings. Participants will delve into effective strategies for recalibrating Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), nurturing a culture of ongoing professional development, and fostering team effectiveness. Through interactive discussions and practical workshops, leaders will learn how to create conditions that enhance collaboration and drive collective success. Cohort 1: R Oct 3 , R Nov 7, R Dec 5 -- 2:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 10, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT	Develop and sustain a professional learning culture that promotes continuous improvement and excellence. Utilize leadership skills to foster an environment of collaboration and support among educational teams. Implement strategies to strengthen and recalibrate PLCs to ensure they are effective and goal-oriented.
Next-Level Facilitation: Designing Engaging Experiences for Adult Learners Next-Level Facilitation: Designing Engaging Experiences for Adult Learners offers a fresh perspective on engaging adult learners in educational settings. Aimed at professionals responsible for leading professional development and meetings, this Impact Institute explores the latest methodologies and strategies for effective facilitation. Participants will learn how to design and conduct sessions that not only convey information but also inspire growth and change. From dynamic meeting facilitation to crafting impactful professional learning experiences, this course provides the tools needed to enhance adult learning outcomes. Cohort 1: M Oct 21 , T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 2:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT	Design professional learning sessions that are engaging, interactive, and conducive to adult growth and development. Master cutting-edge techniques for facilitating meetings and workshops that maximize participation and outcomes. Evaluate and incorporate new trends and tried practices in adult learning to keep sessions relevant and effective.
Aspiring Leaders Academy: Preparing for Educational Leadership The Aspiring Leaders Academy: Preparing for Educational Leadership is designed for educators aiming to step into leadership roles such as principals, assistant principals, coaches, and teachers leader positions. This comprehensive Impact Institute provides the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of educational leadership effectively. Participants will explore core leadership principles, engage in scenario-based learning to tackle real-world challenges, and develop strategic thinking skills essential for leading schools successfully. This academy is an essential stepping stone for those committed to making a significant impact in educational leadership. Cohort 1: M Oct 21 , T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 3:30 PM ET / 2:30 PM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 2:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM CT	Understand the key responsibilities and challenges of school leadership roles and develop strategies to address them effectively. Apply leadership theories and practices in simulation-based activities to enhance decision-making and problem-solving skills. Build a network of peers to support ongoing professional growth and leadership development.
Coaching for Impact: Practices that Drive Success Coaching for Impact: Practices that Drive Success is tailored for instructional coaches, teacher leaders and school leaders focused on enhancing teacher effectiveness and student achievement. This Impact Institute explores advanced coaching techniques and strategies designed to build a robust coaching culture that drives significant improvements in instructional practices. Participants will explore how to provide feedback that is both actionable and supportive, facilitating meaningful change in instructional practices. The session equips coaches with the skills necessary to enhance teacher practices and promote a sustainable culture of growth and mutual support within their schools ted to making a significant impact in educational leadership. Cohort 1: M Oct 21 - 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT, T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 9:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 9:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM CT	Develop strategies to establish and maintain a coaching culture that prioritizes trust and collaborative growth. Master effective coaching techniques to enhance teacher performance and student learning outcomes. Utilize reflective feedback techniques to enhance teacher self-awareness and professional growth.
Marketing Your School: Strategies for Effective Communication and Engagement Marketing Your School: Strategies for Effective Communication and Engagement is designed for schools and districts looking to effectively promote their schools. This Impact Institute explores how to reach ideal candidates, articulate the school’s mission and vision in stakeholder-friendly terms, and leverage community support to reinforce this vision. Participants will learn practical techniques for crafting compelling messages and utilizing various communication channels to highlight their school’s strengths and successes, ensuring the “good word” reaches the right audiences and fosters positive perceptions. Cohort 1: M Oct 21, T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT	Define and communicate the unique mission and vision of your school to align with the expectations and values of prospective stakeholders. Engage community members and stakeholders in supporting and promoting the school’s vision through effective partnership strategies. Implement diverse communication strategies to effectively broadcast school achievements and positive news to a broader audience
Cultivating a School Culture of Continuous Improvement: Strategies for Success Cultivating a School Culture of Continuous Improvement: Strategies for Success offers school and district leaders actionable insights into fostering an environment of ongoing growth and excellence. This Impact Institute focuses on implementing sustainable practices to enhance clarity, consistency, and collaboration among staff. Participants will explore how to effectively use instructional frameworks to build collective efficacy, how to use instructional rounds to support instructional practices and how to lead through feedback and coaching. The session will provide practical tools and strategies for creating a culture that values and pursues continuous improvement, thereby driving sustained academic and operational success. Cohort 1: W Oct 23, W Nov 20, W Dec 11 -- 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT Cohort 2: T Oct 22, T Nov 19, T Dec 10 -- 1:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM CT	Foster a school culture that embraces continuous improvement through leadership, collaboration, and shared values. Lead and support instructional improvements through targeted feedback and coaching, promoting a culture of continuous professional growth. Utilize instructional support tools to foster collective efficacy and support consistent teaching standards across the school.
Leading with Empathy: Strategies for a People-First Culture Leading with Empathy: Strategies for a People-First Culture offers a deep dive into leadership practices that emphasize empathy, integrity, and resilience. This Impact Institute is designed for school leaders who aim to enhance their effectiveness by prioritizing the well-being of both themselves and their teams. Participants will explore strategies for maintaining personal wellness, building credibility, and managing difficult situations constructively. Through practical exercises and discussions, leaders will learn to lead with a people-first approach, fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and motivated. Cohort 1: W Oct 23, W Nov 20, W Dec 11 -- 1:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM CT Cohort 2: T Oct 22, T Nov 19, T Dec 10 -- 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT	Employ empathetic leadership practices to effectively manage and motivate diverse teams. Build and maintain credibility as a leader to inspire trust and respect among staff and students. Master techniques for personal wellness and resilience
Attracting and Keeping the Next Generation of Teachers: Strategies for Sustainable Recruitment and Retention Attracting and Keeping the Next Generation of Teachers: Strategies for Sustainable Recruitment and Retention focuses on the crucial aspects of recruiting and retaining enthusiastic and capable educators in today’s competitive landscape. This Impact Institute will provide school leaders and district administrators with practical tools and insights to appeal to a new generation of teachers. Participants will explore innovative recruitment strategies, understand the values and expectations of emerging educators, and learn how to create a supportive and engaging work environment that encourages long-term commitment and job satisfaction. Cohort 1: T Oct 1, T Oct 22, T Nov 5 -- 8:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM CT Cohort 2: W Oct 2, W Oct 23, W No 6 -- 8:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM CT	Identify and implement effective recruitment strategies that resonate with the values and expectations of the next generation of teachers. Develop and foster a supportive school culture that promotes professional growth, collaboration, and retention of talented educators. Utilize feedback and engagement techniques to ensure a positive work environment that attracts and retains high-quality teaching staff.

Topic and Session Details

Learning Objectives

New Teachers: Flourishing in the First Year

Embark on your teaching journey with confidence through the New Teachers: Thriving in Your First Year Impact Institute. This session is tailored for educators new to the classroom, providing a supportive environment to connect with peers facing similar challenges. Participants will gain access to valuable resources, engage in discussions about building meaningful classroom learning environments, and explore best practices for effective instructional design. By sharing experiences and solutions, new teachers will build a foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in education.

Cohort 1: R Oct 3, R Nov 7, R Dec 5 -- 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 10, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 4:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM CT

Identify and capitalize on strategies that foster a positive and effective learning environment.
Design instructional plans that are engaging, inclusive, and aligned with educational standards.
Develop a professional network with fellow new teachers to enhance ongoing collaboration and support.

Conditions for Collaboration: Cultivating Excellence in Teams

Supporting the Conditions for Collaboration: Cultivating Excellence in Teams is designed specifically for school building leaders, district administrators, and instructional coaches. This Impact Institute focuses on the critical elements of building and sustaining collaborative environments within educational settings. Participants will delve into effective strategies for recalibrating Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), nurturing a culture of ongoing professional development, and fostering team effectiveness. Through interactive discussions and practical workshops, leaders will learn how to create conditions that enhance collaboration and drive collective success.

Cohort 1: R Oct 3 , R Nov 7, R Dec 5 -- 2:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 10, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT

Develop and sustain a professional learning culture that promotes continuous improvement and excellence.
Utilize leadership skills to foster an environment of collaboration and support among educational teams.
Implement strategies to strengthen and recalibrate PLCs to ensure they are effective and goal-oriented.

Next-Level Facilitation: Designing Engaging Experiences for Adult Learners

Next-Level Facilitation: Designing Engaging Experiences for Adult Learners offers a fresh perspective on engaging adult learners in educational settings. Aimed at professionals responsible for leading professional development and meetings, this Impact Institute explores the latest methodologies and strategies for effective facilitation. Participants will learn how to design and conduct sessions that not only convey information but also inspire growth and change. From dynamic meeting facilitation to crafting impactful professional learning experiences, this course provides the tools needed to enhance adult learning outcomes.

Cohort 1: M Oct 21 , T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 2:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT

Design professional learning sessions that are engaging, interactive, and conducive to adult growth and development.
Master cutting-edge techniques for facilitating meetings and workshops that maximize participation and outcomes.
Evaluate and incorporate new trends and tried practices in adult learning to keep sessions relevant and effective.

Aspiring Leaders Academy: Preparing for Educational Leadership

The Aspiring Leaders Academy: Preparing for Educational Leadership is designed for educators aiming to step into leadership roles such as principals, assistant principals, coaches, and teachers leader positions. This comprehensive Impact Institute provides the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of educational leadership effectively. Participants will explore core leadership principles, engage in scenario-based learning to tackle real-world challenges, and develop strategic thinking skills essential for leading schools successfully. This academy is an essential stepping stone for those committed to making a significant impact in educational leadership.

Cohort 1: M Oct 21 , T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 3:30 PM ET / 2:30 PM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 2:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM CT

Understand the key responsibilities and challenges of school leadership roles and develop strategies to address them effectively.
Apply leadership theories and practices in simulation-based activities to enhance decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Build a network of peers to support ongoing professional growth and leadership development.

Coaching for Impact: Practices that Drive Success

Coaching for Impact: Practices that Drive Success is tailored for instructional coaches, teacher leaders and school leaders focused on enhancing teacher effectiveness and student achievement. This Impact Institute explores advanced coaching techniques and strategies designed to build a robust coaching culture that drives significant improvements in instructional practices. Participants will explore how to provide feedback that is both actionable and supportive, facilitating meaningful change in instructional practices. The session equips coaches with the skills necessary to enhance teacher practices and promote a sustainable culture of growth and mutual support within their schools ted to making a significant impact in educational leadership.

Cohort 1: M Oct 21 - 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT, T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 9:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 9:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM CT

Develop strategies to establish and maintain a coaching culture that prioritizes trust and collaborative growth.
Master effective coaching techniques to enhance teacher performance and student learning outcomes.
Utilize reflective feedback techniques to enhance teacher self-awareness and professional growth.

Marketing Your School: Strategies for Effective Communication and Engagement

Marketing Your School: Strategies for Effective Communication and Engagement is designed for schools and districts looking to effectively promote their schools. This Impact Institute explores how to reach ideal candidates, articulate the school’s mission and vision in stakeholder-friendly terms, and leverage community support to reinforce this vision. Participants will learn practical techniques for crafting compelling messages and utilizing various communication channels to highlight their school’s strengths and successes, ensuring the “good word” reaches the right audiences and fosters positive perceptions.

Cohort 1: M Oct 21, T Nov 12, T Dec 10 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT

Cohort 2: R Oct 24, R Nov 14, R Dec 12 -- 12:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM CT

Define and communicate the unique mission and vision of your school to align with the expectations and values of prospective stakeholders.
Engage community members and stakeholders in supporting and promoting the school’s vision through effective partnership strategies.
Implement diverse communication strategies to effectively broadcast school achievements and positive news to a broader audience

Cultivating a School Culture of Continuous Improvement: Strategies for Success

Cultivating a School Culture of Continuous Improvement: Strategies for Success offers school and district leaders actionable insights into fostering an environment of ongoing growth and excellence. This Impact Institute focuses on implementing sustainable practices to enhance clarity, consistency, and collaboration among staff. Participants will explore how to effectively use instructional frameworks to build collective efficacy, how to use instructional rounds to support instructional practices and how to lead through feedback and coaching. The session will provide practical tools and strategies for creating a culture that values and pursues continuous improvement, thereby driving sustained academic and operational success.

Cohort 1: W Oct 23, W Nov 20, W Dec 11 -- 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT

Cohort 2: T Oct 22, T Nov 19, T Dec 10 -- 1:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM CT

Foster a school culture that embraces continuous improvement through leadership, collaboration, and shared values.
Lead and support instructional improvements through targeted feedback and coaching, promoting a culture of continuous professional growth.
Utilize instructional support tools to foster collective efficacy and support consistent teaching standards across the school.

Leading with Empathy: Strategies for a People-First Culture

Leading with Empathy: Strategies for a People-First Culture offers a deep dive into leadership practices that emphasize empathy, integrity, and resilience. This Impact Institute is designed for school leaders who aim to enhance their effectiveness by prioritizing the well-being of both themselves and their teams. Participants will explore strategies for maintaining personal wellness, building credibility, and managing difficult situations constructively. Through practical exercises and discussions, leaders will learn to lead with a people-first approach, fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and motivated.

Cohort 1: W Oct 23, W Nov 20, W Dec 11 -- 1:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM CT

Cohort 2: T Oct 22, T Nov 19, T Dec 10 -- 11:00 AM ET / 10:00 AM CT

Employ empathetic leadership practices to effectively manage and motivate diverse teams.
Build and maintain credibility as a leader to inspire trust and respect among staff and students.
Master techniques for personal wellness and resilience

Attracting and Keeping the Next Generation of Teachers: Strategies for Sustainable Recruitment and Retention

Attracting and Keeping the Next Generation of Teachers: Strategies for Sustainable Recruitment and Retention focuses on the crucial aspects of recruiting and retaining enthusiastic and capable educators in today’s competitive landscape. This Impact Institute will provide school leaders and district administrators with practical tools and insights to appeal to a new generation of teachers. Participants will explore innovative recruitment strategies, understand the values and expectations of emerging educators, and learn how to create a supportive and engaging work environment that encourages long-term commitment and job satisfaction.

Cohort 1: T Oct 1, T Oct 22, T Nov 5 -- 8:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM CT

Cohort 2: W Oct 2, W Oct 23, W No 6 -- 8:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM CT

Identify and implement effective recruitment strategies that resonate with the values and expectations of the next generation of teachers.
Develop and foster a supportive school culture that promotes professional growth, collaboration, and retention of talented educators.
Utilize feedback and engagement techniques to ensure a positive work environment that attracts and retains high-quality teaching staff.

Impact Institute Book Clubs
At Leaders Connect, we realize there are many book club options for Superintendents and district-level leaders. Our goal is to create a community where superintendents and district-level leaders select and curate the book list as well as facilitate the sessions on each book. What makes this club unique is that the books are not directly related to education, but the lessons learned, and deep discussions can be impactful for district leaders both professionally and personally. Options: - Superintendent Book Club - District-Level Leader (e.g. Assistant Superintendent) Book Club *If you are interested in joining a book club, please complete the interest form linked below.*

Impact Institute Book Clubs

At Leaders Connect, we realize there are many book club options for Superintendents and district-level leaders. Our goal is to create a community where superintendents and district-level leaders select and curate the book list as well as facilitate the sessions on each book. What makes this club unique is that the books are not directly related to education, but the lessons learned, and deep discussions can be impactful for district leaders both professionally and personally.

Options:

- Superintendent Book Club

- District-Level Leader (e.g. Assistant Superintendent) Book Club

If you are interested in joining a book club, please complete the interest form linked below.

Book Club Interest Form

Don't miss out on these exciting learning opportunities!