We begin with an Indigenous Elder opening the gathering, grounding us in reflection and community. This is followed by a Conversation Circle centered on the questions: "What does belonging mean to you? And what does belonging mean to you in the context of your classroom?" Through this exchange, we will explore how different experiences of belonging influence our roles and how these shared stories can guide future practices. 

After the Conversation Circle, participants can enjoy a networking break with coffee, creating space to foster conversations, build connections, and share experiences informally. 

We will then transition into our Change One Thing session, designed to help participants embrace the message of progress over perfection. Have you ever thought of changing something in your course or teaching practice but felt unsure where to begin or how to prioritize? This experiential workshop offers the space and support to identify that first step to creating a great sense of belonging in your classrooms for us and for our students. Through guided brainstorming, you will reflect on actionable changes you can implement and develop practical plans to carry them forward, ensuring they are both measurable and achievable. 

In a time when the future, shaped by opportunities and challenges like AI, can feel uncertain, this session reminds us that we thrive when we learn from each other and work together. Let’s build lasting connections and discover how small, meaningful changes can create spaces where everyone belongs. 

 Tentative Schedule: 

• 1:00 PM | Opening by Indigenous Elder 

• 1:15 PM | Conversation Circle: What does belonging mean to you? 

• 2:00 PM | Networking Break with Coffee 

• 2:30 PM | Change One Thing Workshop: Fostering belonging in our teaching practice 

• 3:30 PM | Closing and Reflections 

Whether you join us in person or virtually, we look forward to connecting with you as we collectively build spaces where students, educators, and staff thrive together.