Deeper Learning 2026

Place-based experiential learning or “fieldwork” sounds good on paper, but how do you implement a robust, meaningful fieldwork program without ample money, time, and people? In this session, we will venture off-campus to demonstrate how even a simple experience can spark learning, ground existing lessons, and support cross-disciplinary connections. Participants will be challenged to connect the experience to their own disciplines and communities, and to consider how low lift experiences can be just as impactful to students as elaborate ones. Hear directly from students about why fieldwork is worth it, and brainstorm with fellow school leaders and educators how to surmount real barriers. Teachers will leave the session with a draft of a fieldwork experience for their context. School/district leaders will leave with a plan on how to empower teachers to embed fieldwork in their courses.

Lunch is included in each deep dive.
LUNCH MENU
Greek Salad (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Cannelini Bean & Pasta Salad (Vegan)
Lemon Basmati Rice (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Tahini Dressing
Falafel (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Roasted Vegetables   Lemon Bars & Baklava

We often hear about hands-on teaching, but how do we actually put student-centered learning into practice? The session will focus on how you can design integrated, multi-disciplinary learning experiences in any classroom and any subject. This deep dive will strike a balance between being actively engaged as learners and pulling the curtain back to explain the ideas and research behind the learning. By the end of this session you will have concrete teaching strategies as well as an overall framework for lesson, project, or unit planning. Come be part of the Habla magic!

Lunch is included in each deep dive.
LUNCH MENU
Greek Salad (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Cannelini Bean & Pasta Salad (Vegan)
Lemon Basmati Rice (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Tahini Dressing
Falafel (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Roasted Vegetables   Lemon Bars & Baklava

When we think about Deeper Learning, we usually picture Project-Based Learning. Projects are one of the best ways to immerse students in Deeper Learning, but in most schools, projects are not happening all the time. Often, even in PBL schools, they comprise only a small part of the schedule. Students deserve Deeper Learning all day long.

In this workshop, we will dive into Deeper Instruction strategies—analyzing frameworks, models, and videos—to help us move toward schools where every lesson is a Deeper Learning lesson. We will consider together strategies for PreK-12 classrooms where students are active, independent, and collaborative thinkers throughout lessons, whether the lessons are a part of projects or not connected to projects.

Lunch is included in each deep dive.
LUNCH MENU
Greek Salad (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Cannelini Bean & Pasta Salad (Vegan)
Lemon Basmati Rice (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Tahini Dressing
Falafel (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Roasted Vegetables   Lemon Bars & Baklava

In this interactive deep dive led by Creating Creators, Santa Ana Unified School District’s Saintly Films, & What School Could Be facilitators, participants will reimagine a favorite lesson by embedding narrative filmmaking strategies aligned with academic standards. Using a PBL framework & AI tools, they will explore the creative process from brainstorming driving questions, scriptwriting, storyboarding, filming, & editing to produce a one-minute video artifact & lesson outline. The session offers firsthand experience with creative media to elevate learning, foster belonging, & engage diverse learners.

Participants will leave with tools, templates, & a replicable framework to integrate filmmaking into classrooms across grade levels & subject areas. This session is designed for teachers, instructional coaches, & school leaders seeking equitable, student-centered practices that make learning more meaningful & engaging.

Lunch is included in each deep dive.
LUNCH MENU
Greek Salad (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Cannelini Bean & Pasta Salad (Vegan)
Lemon Basmati Rice (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Tahini Dressing
Falafel (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Roasted Vegetables   Lemon Bars & Baklava

This Deep Dives experience includes visiting a local student at their internship to witness learning in action, while mentors reflect on the power of guidance and community experts share how they strengthen neighborhoods. Learners will engage directly with young people as they pursue passions, build mentor relationships, and take on impactful work. Participants will also explore a local organization doing meaningful community work. These authentic encounters highlight what’s possible when education extends beyond classroom walls. Afterward, participants engage in hands-on workshops to explore tools and strategies for building thriving real-world learning programs. They will leave not only inspired but also equipped with a practical plan to design infrastructure, systems, and supports that bring this vision to life in their own contexts.

Lunch is included in each deep dive.
LUNCH MENU
Greek Salad (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Cannelini Bean & Pasta Salad (Vegan)
Lemon Basmati Rice (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Tahini Dressing
Falafel (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Roasted Vegetables   Lemon Bars & Baklava