Join our Project-Based Learning Community of Practice! This collaborative group is designed to give educators practical strategies for creating engaging, real-world learning experiences. Together, we’ll explore best practices, share ideas, and provide dedicated time and support for you to design meaningful projects that you can bring directly into your own classroom to inspire curiosity and deeper learning

These events are open to select schools in Madera and Yosemite Unified School Districts as well as the district office leadership teams.

The Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Communities of Practice (CoPs) are funded through the 21CSLA Equity-Centered Leadership Grant, which supports professional learning that strengthens access, opportunity, and inclusion for historically underserved and marginalized learners. This grant prioritizes leadership and instructional practices that promote equitable outcomes across early learning systems. Through this grant-funded series, TK educators engage in collaborative professional learning focused on developmentally appropriate practice, play-based instruction, and intentional alignment with the California Preschool Learning Foundations and the P–3 continuum. Sessions emphasize reflective practice, peer collaboration, and practical strategies that can be immediately applied in TK classrooms. The TK CoPs are designed to build collective capacity, support equity-centered instructional decision-making, and strengthen TK’s role as a critical bridge between early education and the K–12 system.

Cohort 1

Join us for a monthly lunch and learn exploring the book "From Foster Care to College" by Royel M. Johnson. This book study will bring together regional education partners (TK–16) and community organizations that holistically support students in care. We will meet once a month to engage in shared learning, discussion, and reflection focused on improving educational outcomes and collaborative practices for this population. The monthly meetings will be facilitated by the Cabrillo College Guardian Scholars/NextUp lead and a Guardian Scholar/NextUp student. As an added bonus, all participants will receive a complimentary copy of the book and an invitation to our April culminating event, where author Royel M. Johnson will visit the professional learning community and deliver a book talk!

Through shared learning in this Community of Practice, and by drawing on the collective wisdom and insights of your colleagues, you will have the opportunity to: Gain an enhanced understanding of the research on personal growth & development Set personalized strategic goals that will make your life more fulfilling Practice implementing strategies and make progress towards your goals Develop a self-care plan that is specific to your needs Feel more agency and power in your life

Collaborate, share and grow together. Engage in discussions, share practices, and read excerpts to support your practice.