Designing for Belonging: A Human-Centered Approach to Curriculum & Culture

What small shifts can you make to create curriculum and school culture where every student feels seen, heard, and valued?

The Designing for Belonging Institute is a hands-on, three-day experience designed for school teams—whether newly formed or well-established—who are ready to build classrooms rooted in belonging, representation, and inclusive practice. Through classroom observation, collaborative discussion, and practical planning time, teams explore how to:

1. Build a shared mindset around anti-bias teaching and cultures of belonging
2. Observe model lessons and real classroom moments that center identity and voice
3. Design and refine curriculum using the lenses of representation, critical literacy, and social action
4. Make small, meaningful shifts in practice that lead to more just and inclusive learning environments

You’ll leave with an actionable plan and a shared school-wide goal that can inform PD, curriculum design, and instructional strategies right away.

Find the general agenda here and note that day 3 will end at 2:15pm EST.

We understand that plans may change. If you are unable to attend, please note the following:

Cancellations made at least one week (7 days) prior to the start date can be transferred to the next available cohort/workshop

Cancellations made within one week of the event are non-refundable, but participants may choose to transfer their registration to the next cohort/workshop or donate their spot to support Roots ConnectED’s work.

If you wish to transfer your registration or offer it as a donation, please email program@rootsconneted.org as soon as possible.Thank you for your understanding and support!