US/Global 
CAN
Transforming School Culture Institute
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois | October 27–29, 2026
Researchers and practitioners alike agree that schools will not achieve high levels of learning for all students until improvements are made to school culture. Recent events, including the global pandemic, teacher wellness, staff absence, and the national teacher shortage have made it crystal clear that people matter more than programs and systems.
Structural changes—policies, programs, schedules, and procedures—are critical components of school improvement, but their impact is limited if not implemented within the right culture. Achieving sustainable school improvement and increased learning for all requires educators to address long-held beliefs, habits, and expectations. Only after honestly and openly examining a school’s current reality can staff begin creating a positive school culture and climate and making improvements for students, the community, and themselves. Dr. Anthony Muhammad has been studying, writing, and training educators on this topic for 15 years and the time has never been riper for educators to examine the benefit of this body of research.
Participants will:
- Acquire practical strategies for improving inclusion for traditionally marginalized students (e.g., minorities, English learners, students with disabilities)
- Understand the role of teacher leadership in improving school climate and culture
- Learn how to create shared commitment for student success
- Explore the connection between a positive school culture and vital changes in teacher education and practice
- Investigate the principal as a moral leader and protector of culture
- Learn strategies for resolving personal and professional conflict in order to build and maintain positive culture
- Gain insight into developing better student relationships and building classroom culture
VenueDrury Lane Theatre and Conference Center 100 Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois |
Presenter slate coming soon
Schedule
On-Site Solution Tree Bookstore Open Throughout Event
Agenda and speakers are subject to change.
Tuesday, October 27th
| 7:00–8:00 a.m. |
Registration and Continental Breakfast |
| 8:00–9:45 a.m. | Keynote |
| 9:45–10:00 a.m. |
Break |
| 10:00–11:30 a.m. | Breakouts |
| 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. |
Lunch (on your own) |
| 1:00–2:30 p.m. |
Breakouts |
| 2:30–2:45 p.m. |
Break |
| 2:45–3:45 p.m. | Panel Discussion |
Wednesday, October 28th
| 7:00–8:00 a.m. |
Registration and Continental Breakfast |
| 8:00–9:45 a.m. | Keynote |
| 9:45–10:00 a.m. |
Break |
| 10:00–11:30 a.m. | Breakouts |
| 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. |
Lunch (on your own) |
| 1:00–2:30 p.m. |
Breakouts |
| 2:30–2:45 p.m. |
Break |
| 2:45–3:45 p.m. | Micro Strategy Sessions |
Thursday, October 29th
| 7:00–8:00 a.m. |
Continental Breakfast |
| 8:00–9:30 a.m. |
Breakouts |
| 9:30–9:45 a.m. | Break |
| 9:45–11:45 a.m. |
Keynote |
Accommodations
Events reach capacity quickly. Please confirm your registration before making travel plans.
In order to receive the discounted hotel room rate, please mention Solution Tree. After the deadline listed below, rates will be determined by the hotel. While discounted rooms in our hotel room block may be sold out, the primary hotel may still have rooms available at their standard rates. Please inquire directly with the hotel.
Parking information:
Hilton discounted to $5 daily self parking
Hotels
Primary Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago/Oakbrook Terrace
1000 Drury Lane
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois 60181
800-HILTONS
Discounted Rate: $136 per night
Deadline: September 25, 2026 or until group rate is sold out.
Parking Information: Hilton discounted to $5 daily self parking
VenueDrury Lane Theatre and Conference Center 100 Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois |
Hear from our attendees
Event Reviews
“I found all of the keynote sessions to be very engaging and relevant. Each of the presenters was knowledgeable about the content and shared tips and practical strategies to assist site administrators in building and sustaining culture. Thank you! ”
“The information was amazing. I left with a new drive to improve our school culture through PLC.”
“I appreciated the 'why' combined with the 'how to'—and I felt that the presentations were done in a way that demonstrated how we can present this information to our school site.”
More details
Additional Information
Product code: CFF886
Five Reasons to Attend a Solution Tree Event (PDF)
A Letter to Your Boss (DOC)
You will receive a certificate of participation 6 weeks after the event concludes. Please check with your department of education for CEU availability.
On-Site Solution Tree Book Co-Op Discounts
- Buy 5 or more Solution Tree titles or resources and receive 30% off and free shipping
- On-site book co-op open daily throughout the event
Discounts above are for on-site purchases only. Does not include any non-Solution Tree product, toolkit, or sale table items. Purchase orders and credit cards accepted. We now accept Apple, Google and Samsung Pay onsite. Continental US only.
Included with your registration
Anchor Your Vision
This book is for educators who have a strong desire to lead the type of change in districts and schools that impacts learning for both students and the adults who serve them. With practical action steps and tools, the book helps educators put their district’s or school’s mission into action to achieve their vision.
Event Journal
We’re enhancing your event experience. In addition to providing presentations in digital format, Solution Tree is publishing retail-quality, perfect-bound notebooks expertly designed to support your learning. Any printed handouts or worksheets integrated into your sessions will continue to be provided.
