This session will offer perspectives on leveraging the Cultures of Thinking (CoT) Mindsets to inform instructional planning and organizational culture. Drawing upon ten years of experience at Mandela International Magnet School in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Principal Randy Grillo will engage participants in an analysis of street data and student work that illustrates how teachers are using CoT Mindsets to guide their instructional decisions. Participants will explore practical ideas for using these mindsets not just as a vision, but as an ongoing tool to illuminate next steps, drive professional growth, and shape a responsive and reflective learning environment.
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:25am - 11:50am PDT Room 108
We often use the word “training” when we talk about teacher professional learning. This connotes that there is some skill or practice that we merely want teachers to replicate or add into their practice. However, developing a culture of thinking goes much deeper than merely adding a set of practices. It requires a deep reflection on and understanding of one’s teaching as we engage in the ongoing practice of refining it. Such an inquiry provides a powerful example of in-depth, ongoing professional learning. In this session we will look at the Inquiry Cycle we have used to guide teachers around the world in the Cultures of Thinking Project and hear from local teachers about what this type of learning has meant to them.
Wednesday July 22, 2026 2:50pm - 4:15pm PDT Room 108
