The Center for Educational Innovation & Opportunity offers professional learning events designed to support educators, administrators, and community partners in advancing student success. Through workshops, trainings, and collaborative programs, participants gain practical strategies, new perspectives, and opportunities for professional growth. Explore upcoming events and learning opportunities below to connect, engage, and expand your impact.
Leveling Up to Lead Change: Designing Professional Learning for Strategic Initiatives
When: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: ODU Innovation Lab, 600 Butler Farm Road, Hampton VA
Presenter: Alaina Trott
This hands-on design workshop, facilitated by Alaina Trott (Chief Strategy Officer, Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools), will focus on the question: How do you design professional learning so that specific initiatives take root and thrive?
During the session, your team will:
- Apply change theory to create a strategic professional learning plan tied to one of your 2026–27 initiatives.
- Explore nine design levers to differentiate professional learning for staff at all levels of skill, will, and thrill.
- Use the triple track planning template to design and evaluate professional learning experiences aligned to your division or school’s strategic goals.
Please come prepared with one initiative you’ll be leading in 2026–27. You’ll leave with a clear, actionable plan for professional learning connected directly to your 2026-2027 strategic plan.
Cost: $150 per person
Group Rate: Groups of 4 or more receive a discounted rate of $125 per person.
Payment Information:Payment is accepted online by credit card through our secure payment portal. Groups of 4 or more should contact Kaitlyn McCoy at k1mccoy@odu.edu to complete registration and receive the discounted group rate.
Sustaining the Work: A Workshop on Thriving in Teaching and Building a Career That Lasts
When: July 23 9am-2pm
Where: ODU Innovation Lab 600 Butler Farm Road Hampton, VA 23666
Presenter: Dr. Michael Cromartie
Teaching has always required dedication, heart, and resilience. At the same time, today’s educators are navigating increasing demands, expanding responsibilities, and systems that can make long-term sustainability feel difficult. This workshop creates space for honest reflection, practical strategies, and meaningful conversation about how educators can continue to grow, lead, and thrive throughout their careers.
Grounded in research-based practices and real-world educational experience, Dr. Cromartie’s workshop offers participants an opportunity to better understand the factors that contribute to stress and burnout while also exploring actionable tools for creating healthier, more sustainable professional practices.
Participants will engage in thoughtful reflection, collaborative discussion, and practical planning designed to support both personal well-being and professional purpose. Each participant will leave with a written professional sustainability plan that is authentic, individualized, and focused on long-term growth and impact.
Designed for teachers, instructional coaches, department heads, and school leaders at any stage of their professional journey.
Cost: $75 per person
Group Rate: Groups of 4 or more receive a discounted rate of $50 per person.
Payment Information: Payment is accepted online by credit card through our secure payment portal. Groups of 4 or more should contact Kaitlyn McCoy at k1mccoy@odu.edu to complete registration and receive the discounted group rate.
Register Here