Summer Learning Institute 2026

Chronic absenteeism is widely recognized, but many districts struggle to translate data into effective action. In this interactive session, participants will explore a small set of high-impact, research-backed practices that have helped districts improve attendance without adding unsustainable demands on staff. Through a guided discussion of a real-world attendance scenario, attendees will examine how to identify early warning signs, engage families supportively, and align efforts across teams. Participants will leave with 1–2 concrete next steps they can take back to their district.

Teachers have a lot on their plates and are constantly asked to engage in a delicate balancing act of “getting through” the curriculum and managing student behaviors. This session explains the Education Code’s disciplinary structure as it pertains to teacher rights, with a specific focus on the legal requirement to provide other means of correction prior to most disciplinary removals. Participants will also examine trauma-informed strategies to support students while reducing the need to remove them from class. Ultimately, teachers will leave this training with a clear understanding of how to implement the discipline code of conduct without violating the rights of their students.

Discover how Madera Unified School District is transforming classrooms through trauma-informed and healing-centered practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This session offers hands-on experiences from the district’s professional learning initiative, including calming station activities, peer coaching strategies, and tiered supports like Bounce Back and CBITS. Participants will leave with practical tools, classroom strategies, and guidance to create safe, supportive environments that promote emotional regulation, belonging, and academic success for all students.

This session will help school administrators distinguish between what constitutes a true student threat and what does not. Participants will explore the legal and practical responsibilities that follow when a threat is reported, including investigation, assessment, documentation, duty to inform, and potential disciplinary response. Through real-world examples, this session will provide guidance to help leaders respond in ways that protect school safety, support students, and remain legally sound.