Towards Just Learning Environments: Teaching and Learning With and About Native Peoples
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Fee: $20 per person.
Age: Ages 18 and older.
Contact: 815-722-9301
Event details
This training is a professional learning opportunity presented by the Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy and hosted by the Forest Preserve District of Will County. This daylong professional development training is designed to support teachers and non-formal educators across all academic disciplines and settings to gain a foundational grounding in the histories and contemporary experiences of Native Peoples with the goal of supporting the implementation of the Native American History teaching mandate in Illinois.
Educators will gain foundational knowledge and understanding of Native American history, cultures, perspectives and the importance of Tribal Sovereignty and its many expressions and manifestations. After examining Indigenous absence within the schooling system, participants will utilize resources and pedagogical shifts to incorporate First Voice perspectives in their classrooms. Educators can earn 6 CEUs for completing the professional development.
A catered lunch will be sponsored by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Event requirements
Registration required by Tuesday, Oct. 13: 815-722-9301.
Four Rivers Environmental Education Center is an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.