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Schools to Watch

Schools to Watch Summer Institute

July 14-15, 2025, La Jolla, CA

Recharge, Connect, and Lead the Way

Join us in beautiful La Jolla, CA, for the 2025 Schools to Watch Summer Institute—a dynamic, two-day professional learning experience designed for middle-grades educators who want to strengthen their schools and elevate student outcomes.

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Schools to Watch (STW) provides a FREE assessment through its Self-Study and Rating Rubric, helping schools evaluate their strengths and identify areas for growth. 

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Whether you're exploring the STW program for the first time or already part of the network, you'll gain practical strategies, fresh inspiration, and valuable connections with other educators committed to middle grades excellence.

🧭 What to Expect

Featured Sessions Include:

  • Navigating the Schools to Watch Application Process
    Learn how to prepare your team, develop a timeline, and host a successful validation visit.
     

  • Recharging Educators: Overcoming Burnout Together
    Discover collaborative strategies to support educator well-being and renew your passion for teaching.
     

  • Schools to Watch Community: Connection and Collaboration
    Engage with current STW leaders to share ideas and address common challenges.
     

  • Leveraging Schools to Watch for Continuous Improvement
    Use the STW model to guide schoolwide growth and support all learners.
     

  • Building Systems for Positive School Climate
    Explore structures and practices that promote a healthy school environment and boost student success.

💬 What Educators Are Saying

Very good presenters with poignant and impactful message for leaders.

Chris Horton, Principal, San Gorgonio Middle School

Loved the breakout sessions and the support for schools who were thinking about applying. 

Jessica Riley, Principal
Waverly School

Everything was great! ... one of the best conferences I have been to! 

Science Teacher,
Simons Middle School

Institute Schedule

Monday, July 14

  • 8:00 am - Continental Breakfast

  • 9:00 - 10:30 am - Opening Session

    • Welcome

    • A Schools to Watch Journey, Terra Cotta Middle School

  • 10:45 - 11:30 am - How to Communicate for Influence & Impact

  • 11:30 am - 1:00 pm - Lunch Buffet

  • 1:00 - 1:45 pm - Leveraging AI to Battle Burnout

  • 2:00 - 2:45 pm - Breakout Session:

    • Understanding the STW Model & Rubric

    • LTW Capstone Presentations

  • 2:45 - 3:00 pm - Break

  • 3:00 - 3:45 pm - Breakout Session:

    • STW Panel / Discussions

    • LTW Capstone Presentations

  • 4:00 pm​ - Reception

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Tuesday, July 15

  • 8:00 am - Continental Breakfast

  • 9:00 - 9:45 am - Opening Session:

    • Transformational Leadership

    • LTW Presentation of Certification

  • 10:00 - 10:30 am - STW Success Stories / Q&A

  • 10:45 am - 12:00 pm - Closing Session

    • School Leadership: What's Your Why?

Location

La Jolla
La Jolla San Diego Marriott
4240 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037

A cliff-top community perched on the San Diego coastline, La Jolla, or Jewel City, may technically be considered San Diego, but this is truly a destination unto itself. Enjoy nearby dining, shopping, and coastal activities.

Just steps away from the Marriott, you'll find a convenient train/trolley stop, providing easy access to nearby San Diego—a world-class destination known for its vibrant culture, renowned attractions, and picturesque waterfront. Extend your visit and explore everything from the San Diego Zoo to Balboa Park and the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Special room rate:
$249 plus taxes & fees.

Reserve online or call 858-587-1414 and ask for the California League of Middle Schools rate.
Registration Rates
Schools to Watch*:
Through April 30, 2025   $419.00
After April 30, 2025   $479.00
*Must hold a current STW membership.
Non-Schools to Watch:
Through April 30, 2025   $479.00
After April 30, 2025   $539.00
Registration includes two meals and evening appetizers.
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