Join us this summer for hands-on, equity-driven professional development that equips educators to build stronger communities and more engaging classrooms.

NYC Outward Bound Schools’ Summer Professional Development program offers immersive, equity-centered learning experiences for educators who want to deepen their practice and build inclusive, relationship-driven school communities.

Whether you’re new to Crew or a returning educator seeking to reimagine classroom culture and strengthen student engagement, our workshops offer concrete tools, model strategies, and collaborative planning time—all grounded in our focus on social, emotional, and academic development (SEAD). These sessions are open to middle and high school educators, school leaders, and instructional teams from NYC and beyond. Join us this summer to build skills, strengthen your vision, and walk away with practical plans for the year ahead.

MULTI-DAY

Participants should be available to attend all dates listed. 

Leading Crew 

Dates: July 30 & 31 | 9:00–3:00
Location: NYC Outward Bound Schools, 29-46 Northern Blvd, LIC
Cost: $560

OVERVIEW: For Crew or Advisory leaders who are looking to deepen their understanding of Crew structures, core practices, and the impact of Crew on school culture. In addition to facilitation strategies, there is a focus on high-quality Crew lesson planning, and fostering student voice and leadership within the Crew model.

DETAILS: This two-day session supports educators in building and sustaining strong Crew programs. Day 1 focuses on foundational routines and values of Crew, while Day 2 builds toward facilitation strategies, student-led activities, and integrating SEAD into daily Crew practices.

Participants will explore the purpose of Crew, practice community-building routines, and reflect on how to build inclusive, relationship-centered school culture. Educators leave with tools, resources, and the confidence to implement or elevate Crew at their schools.

Deeper Learning Institute 

Dates: August 18, 19, 20 & 21 | 9:00–3:30
Location: West End Secondary School, 227-243 W 61st St, NYC
Cost: $1,300 (includes meals and materials)

OVERVIEW: Our onboarding experience for educators –  participants will engage in immersive learning and experience models of inclusive, challenging daily instruction that support students’ social-emotional and academic development. There will be an emphasis on the connection between unit planning and daily lessons, grounding all learning in our key practices.

DETAILS: Designed for educators new to NYC Outward Bound Schools, this four-day institute models our approach to deeper learning and equity. Through project-based learning, participants experience a “slice” of a unit and design their own culminating tasks. Daily workshops center on lesson protocols, student-centered assessment, and inclusive pedagogy including UDL.

Participants will engage in fieldwork, collaboration, and Crew, ending the week with a celebration of learning to present their designs. The experience emphasizes the connection between vision, planning, and classroom instruction.

ONE DAY

Introduction to Crew 

Date: August 25 | 9:00–3:00
Location: NYC Outward Bound Schools, 29-46 Northern Blvd, LIC
Cost: $280

OVERVIEW: For educators who are new to Crew or Advisory and looking to build a strong foundation in the purpose, structures, facilitation of relationship-centered activities. 

DETAILS: This one-day PD introduces the fundamentals of Crew: its purpose, design, and role in creating inclusive school communities. Educators will experience model Crew activities, practice key facilitation moves, and reflect on how to build belonging and student voice into daily classroom practice.

Participants will leave with a set of sample activities and tools to begin implementing Crew with confidence.

Community Building 101 

Date: August 27 | 9:00–3:00
Location: NYC Outward Bound Schools, 29-46 Northern Blvd, LIC
Cost: $280

OVERVIEW: For educators who are new to facilitating team-building activities and seeking to strengthen their ability to foster inclusive, connected learning environments.

DETAILS: This one-day session helps educators build skills in group development and inclusive facilitation. Participants will engage in icebreakers, greetings, and structured activities that promote connection, trust, and collaboration.

The day includes peer practice and feedback, with a focus on how to integrate community-building into daily routines. Participants leave with a ready-to-use toolkit and a deeper understanding of how to foster positive classroom culture.

Ready to learn more or sign up? Fill out the form below to let us know which sessions you’re interested in.