A three-session mini-course for K-12 teachers designed and led by Kara Louise Imm, PhD
Monday June 7, 2021; Monday June 14, 2021; Monday June 21, 2021; 4:30-6

In this interactive mini-course we will first unpack the ideas, key assumptions, history and implications of learning loss – a paradigm that is increasingly shaping teaching and learning across the U.S., especially in the “testing subjects” of Mathematics and ELA. Together, we will explore some of the following key questions: If learning loss is primarily about supporting kids and helping them “catch up,” why are we challenging it? Who is promoting/supporting the narrative of learning loss? Why might they have a vested interest in it? How do we acknowledge systemic equity issues within K-12 education without participating in systems that rank, sort and punish students (and their teachers)?
Throughout the course, Kara will support teachers to recognize how the ideas of learning loss might be shaping curriculum, instruction, identities and out-of-classroom activities for both kids and teachers. All participants will leave the course with some newly designed routines, rituals, assignments and artifacts to launch of the school year, moving away from learning loss and towards building joyous, welcoming, inclusive spaces for all kids to learn and thrive.