Educators across California are invited to attend the Model Curriculum Summer Institute, a four-day professional learning event hosted by the Orange County Department of Education.
Scheduled for July 28 through July 31 at the Hilton Irvine/Orange County Airport, the institute will support K-12 teaching teams in the implementation of three recently developed model curricula focused on Cambodian American Studies, Hmong History and Cultural Studies, and Vietnamese American Experiences.
The California Department of Education tapped OCDE to lead the development of three model curriculum projects in response to Assembly Bill 167. The 2021 law, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, called for the creation of instructional resources reflecting the histories, contributions and perspectives of Cambodian Americans, Hmong Americans, and Vietnamese Americans. Under the leadership of County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, the curricula were developed in collaboration with scholars, educators, historians and community organizations to deepen understanding of these communities and their heritage.
These resources are now being introduced to educators through conferences and professional learning events, including this summer’s institute.
Designed to support thoughtful and meaningful instruction, the institute will feature in-depth exploration of the projects, practical teaching strategies, dedicated team planning time and opportunities to connect with fellow educators and community partners.
Priority will be given to teams of up to five from the same school or district. Teachers who attend all four days are eligible for a $1,200 stipend, with lodging and travel support available for those commuting more than 50 miles.
The priority registration deadline is April 30, with final applications due by 11:59 p.m. on May 4. A team leader may register up to five members via the online application.
More information about the Summer Institute, including stipend logistics, curriculum resources and the full agenda, is available at tinyurl.com/OCDE-Model-Curricula and camodelcurricula.ucdavis.edu. For questions or support, contact Matthew O’Donnell at modonnell@ocde.us.