Summer Learning Institute

Justice-Centered Education for a Changing World

July 22-24, 2026

The Summer Learning Institute, hosted by the School of Education, brings together Saint Louis University faculty, regional school teams and community organizations for learning that is reflective, practical and grounded in mission. The institute is designed for participants who want credible content, thoughtful facilitation and time to translate learning into action

Register for the Institute

This free professional development event is open to classroom teachers, instructional coaches, school and district leaders, higher education partners, nonprofit teams, grant writers and community collaborators invested in educational equity. The agenda is structured so school and community teams can attend together, compare learning across sessions, and leave with coordinated next steps.

All sessions will take place on Saint Louis University's campus. Specific building and location details will be available at a later date.

Agenda

July 22

Setting the Foundation

The institute begins by bringing participants together around the theme, Justice-Centered Education for a Changing World. Following the opening keynote, attendees will engage in breakout sessions that explore student-centered learning, culturally responsive teaching, restorative practices, family engagement, educational equity and building inclusive school communities. The afternoon continues with additional learning opportunities that encourage reflection, dialogue, and practical strategies educators can bring back to their schools and organizations.

July 23

Building Knowledge and Expanding Practice

Day two focuses on strengthening educational practice through leadership, policy, innovation and collaboration. A featured keynote examines the relationship between educational policy and student success, followed by breakout sessions covering literacy, mathematics, STEM, artificial intelligence, inclusive education, instructional coaching, grant writing, data-informed decision-making, student wellness and financial literacy. Throughout the day, participants will discover evidence-based approaches and practical tools that support meaningful change in classrooms, schools and communities.

July 24

Leading Change Forward

The final day emphasizes leadership, action and long-term impact. Participants begin with a panel discussion featuring leaders from education and community organizations who will explore whose voices are often missing from conversations about educational equity and opportunity. Breakout sessions throughout the day focus on justice-centered leadership, school culture, discipline, educator wellness, legal issues in education, partnerships, belonging, sustainability and creating systems that support every learner. The institute concludes by encouraging participants to leave equipped with new ideas, stronger professional connections and renewed commitment to advancing justice-centered education in their own communities.