Training Camp Brings Educators together at Chicago Botanic Garden and on Zoom
By: Jordyn Zimmerman
Masked attendees sitting around tables. Everyone is engaged in learning and positioned with their bodies towards the front of the room.
In case you missed it (ICYMI): The Nora Project’s annual educator Training Camp has made a triumphant, hybrid return this month! Through this month-long experience, educators engage in synchronous and asynchronous learning, deep thinking, and evaluation as they prepare for the school year ahead.
On July 12th, TNP educators filled the Chicago Botanic Garden and virtual Zoom spaces as they learned and unlearned about ableist systems within their Spheres of Influence — all the things they can do to create learning environments where all students are included and feel a sense of belonging. During this packed day, made possible thanks to the generous support of Jaclyn and Steve Maletzky, William Blair, and Mesirow Financial, attendees engaged with disabled leaders, fellow educators, the Board of Directors, and TNP staff.
Two masked TNP educators sitting at a table as they participate in the identity flower session. The table is crowded with materials.
Rebecca Cokley got the day started with her keynote welcoming everyone, regardless of where they are on their journey. She shared that whether disabled folx in the space self identify or not, the disability community is infinitely strengthened by their presence. She talked about the challenge of disabled students being taught by nondisabled educators, recalled personal stories of ableism, challenged folx to intentionally include the word ‘disability’ in conversations, and called for educators to meaningfully include and teach all students.
Folx stand in a circle engaged in conversation. Everyone is wearing masks and holding their belongings. There are glass doors and windows in the background, overlooking the gardens.
Other powerful sessions throughout the day included identity mapping, a brief overview of Universal Design for Learning, digging into what an anti-ableist classroom looks like, and sniffing out common ableist practices in schools. Learning ended with a compelling panel featuring four disabled leaders who shared stories and provided educators with explicit action steps for avoiding harm.
The day concluded with mocktails, cocktails, gratitude, and looking ahead to a month of deep learning and reflective spaces. If you weren’t able to join, virtual access can be purchased.
As the beginning of training camp marked my first six months with The Nora Project, it has been a privilege to organize this event, and engage with educators as they continue to unlearn and reflect on their practices.
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