NorCal ELC (Shasta) Regional Academy hosts annual Summer Leadership Institute in hybrid-online format

September 3, 2024

The NorCal Educational Leadership Consortium (NorCal ELC) celebrated a significant milestone with its 4th Annual Summer Leadership Institute, held on June 13th and 14th, 2024, at California State University, Chico. This event marked the first hybrid gathering hosted by any Regional Academy within 21CSLA, making it a landmark occasion for NorCal ELC and all RAs. Themed "Transformation," the institute attracted over 200 educators, with more than 100 attending in person and many more joining virtually. This innovative approach allowed the event to reach a broader audience, allowing educators across Northern California to engage in meaningful professional learning, regardless of their location.

NorCal ELC featured a dynamic and engaging agenda that included a powerful keynote address by George Couros, the renowned author of The Innovator's Mindset. Couros inspired participants by emphasizing the crucial role of innovation in education and the importance of fostering a growth mindset among educators and students. In addition to the keynote, attendees participated in interactive workshops and breakout sessions that delved into inclusive classroom strategies, effective school leadership, and educational equity. 

A key highlight of the event was its hybrid format, which set a new precedent for how professional learning can be delivered.Dr. Michael Kotar, NorCal ELC Regional Director, emphasized the importance of this approach: “Hosting a hybrid institute was important to NorCal ELC so that we could provide our participating school and teacher leaders with an in-person experience as well as a virtual way to attend for those who were unable to make the trip to Chico. Part of the success of the NorCal ELC project is based on our ability to reach into every one of the eleven counties and reduce the barriers to participating in professional learning with colleagues who work in many places in our large region.” 

We are incredibly proud of NorCal ELC for leading the way with this innovative hybrid event, demonstrating what is possible when forward-thinking leadership meets a dedication to equity. As we continue to support and celebrate the transformative work being done across the RAs, NorCal ELC’s pioneering efforts serve as a shining example of how to engage and empower educators in diverse and widespread communities effectively.

Learn more about the NorCal ELC Summer Leadership Institute and access the event recordings