Learning Labs

Learning Labs Overview

Learning Labs serve as an on-ramp to Fund programming and provide professional development opportunities that don’t require a yearlong cohort or fellowship model to engage with. Sessions prioritize engagement and active participation over lecture-style learning, allowing leaders time to push one another on ideas and expand their networks. By including structured time for participants to process, collaborate, and apply learning individually, participants can leave with momentum, not just inspiration.

Sessions are accessible, practice-based professional learning experiences designed by current CPS school leaders, for current CPS school leaders, focused on the areas principals asked for most: chronic absenteeism, strong instructional systems, and the student experience. Leaders of these sessions receive mentorship and guidance from an external partner to ensure they are grounded in strong pedagogy, practical and applicable, and create tangible takeaways for attendees

The program is aligned to strong CPS principal practice, CIWP priorities, district leadership needs, and The Fund’s Principal Excellence Anchors. It also provides a space for school leaders to be in community with one another and to celebrate their work and that of their peers.

Outcomes 

Practical, immediately implementable tools and strategies that strengthen your leadership practice — plus a professional community of peer school leaders to problem-solve and grow alongside.

Who Should Apply? 

Principals and assistant principals in Chicago’s public schools who want accessible, practice-based professional learning without committing to a yearlong cohort or fellowship. Leaders who engage in Fund programming are more likely to outperform their peers in 5Essentials growth. Sessions meet you where you are in your day, week, and career, with dedicated time to plan, collaborate, and apply what you learn. If you’re ready to sharpen your practice and connect with fellow school leaders, click the button below!