2026 ROE8 Summer Institute

This interactive workshop explores the science of brain development and how early experiences shape learning, behavior, and lifelong outcomes. Participants will learn how the brain builds itself over time, the impact of stress and trauma, and practical strategies to support cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Educators and caregivers will leave with research-based insights and actionable tools to create learning environments that foster resilience, curiosity, and thriving in every child.

Today’s students face rising anxiety and disconnection, yet they also hold incredible potential. Drawing on The Anxious Generation, The Amazing Generation, and Let Grow, this session explores how schools can balance connection and independence to support student well-being. Participants will learn relationship-centered, SEL-aligned strategies that build resilience, confidence, and essential life skills while still maintaining strong, supportive relationships.

This interactive, escape room-themed session tackles common challenges in family-school partnerships. As participants solve "clues," they'll unlock practical, adaptable tools that support students' social-emotional and academic growth both in the classroom and at home.

Need time to explore, try things out, or revisit ideas from earlier sessions? This flexible work time is designed for educators to dig deeper into tech tools, strategies, and resources at their own pace. Experiment, collaborate, ask questions, and build something you can actually use in your classroom.

We will explore ways to reinforce student learning by using a sketchbook as a tool in class. The sketchbook is used by many as a hands-on way to generate ideas, problem solve, and synthesize knowledge from a variety of content areas. In this session, we will discuss ways to implement sketchbooks as a creative, instructional tool across all age levels and content areas. We will also create our own sketchbooks out of commonly found materials at low or no cost. No artistic skill is needed!

Discover seven powerful, evidence-based strategies to help struggling students learn more effectively and retain knowledge longer. Based on the IES Practice Guide Organizing Instruction and Study to Improve Student Learning, this session offers practical methods grounded in cognitive science. Participants will explore techniques such as spacing instruction over time, using low-stakes quizzing, connecting abstract concepts to real-world examples, and promoting metacognitive skills. The presentation includes examples tailored for diverse learners, and easy-to-implement classroom ideas. Ideal for educators who want to boost student confidence, comprehension, and long-term success.

Discover the potential of mastering multisyllabic words! The Institute of Educational Science encourages refining decoding skills to comprehend complex words. Delve into a wealth of practical strategies and classroom routines tailored to conquer unfamiliar multisyllabic words, promoting confident reading and accurate spelling.