Designing for Belonging Institute

Join our 2 day institute to jump start your sensational school year. Learn how to design inclusive spaces where all students can thrive.

By Agency by Design Oakland

Date and time

Location

The California Endowment Oakland Regional Office

2000 Franklin Street Oakland, CA 94612

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event.

Speakers

About this event

Event lasts 6 hours

Two Days to Build Belonging through Design of Space and Rituals

Ask yourself, are you building belonging—or allowing othering? Are your students shrinking back or shining bright?

With a focus on space and rituals, together we will reimagine and (re)design what belonging looks and feels like in our current landscape.

Institute Overview:

During this two day (August 4 & 5) institute, we will use Agency by Design thinking routines, principles of design thinking, and elements of the Design for Belonging framework, to design learning spaces that support our students thriving.

What moments shape our sense of belonging? What contributes to our feelings of being othered? Belonging is a fundamental human need and as educators, it is essential for us to create healthy opportunities for students to feel seen, heard, and valued.

What to expect:

🔹 Participate in a highly interactive and collaborative learning community

🔹 Engage in deep reflection

🔹 Experience and practice thinking routines

🔹 Design/redesign spaces and rituals for student thriving

🔹 Leave with practical tools and a renewed vision for belonging

Also Included:

Light breakfast, full lunch, and snacks daily
Resources & planning templates
Certificate of completion
Access to CEUs

"Having a dedicated space to think about the way my students experience my classroom and other folks to collaborate helps me stay focused on what's important and not get distracted by the minutiae of the job. Learning about the frameworks of belonging gives me a useful way to structure my attempts to grow my skills." -past Belonging Fellowship participant

Frequently asked questions

Who is this institute designed for?

This institute is primarily designed for K-12 educators, however anyone who is responsible for creating a positive workplace or learning culture can benefit from participating. This includes but is not limited to trainers, professional development providers, h.r., organizational leaders.

Are graduate level credits available so I can advance on my district's salary scale?

Yes, upon completion of the institute, you will receive information on how to register and pay for CEUs. These are provided by University of the Pacific. While most districts accept these units for advancement, you should check with your specific district to ensure they are acceptable.

Is this location accessible by public transportation?

Yes, it is one block from Bart and multiple bus lines are nearby.

Organized by

Agency by Design Oakland

At Agency by Design Oakland, we do the serious work of shifting mindsets and habits through a playful approach to professional development

By igniting curiosity and a sense of playfulness, AbDO provides professional and personal development that empowers educators to shift their teaching practices. Through maker-centered learning, inquiry and reflection, we allow educators to slow down and reconnect with their students and their own humanity.