The 2026 CA LMI Summer Institute will bring together labor-management teams from across California for two powerful days of learning, reflection, and joint planning. Designed for district and county teams that include superintendents, union leaders, HR directors, board members, and key central office and site staff, the Institute provides a space for collaboration that is both reflective and forward-looking.

Centered on the theme Meeting the Moment, Collaborating with Purpose, this year’s gathering continues CA LMI’s commitment to helping school, district, and county teams strengthen the relationships and shared leadership practices that sustain effective systems of teaching and learning. It supports teams that have participated in prior CA LMI learning experiences while welcoming new teams ready to begin their collaborative journey. Together, participants will engage in shared learning, problem-solving, and team planning that deepens understanding of how labor-management partnerships serve as a catalyst for lasting systems change.

What to Expect

• Learn from exemplar districts and partners who are advancing collaboration to strengthen teaching, learning, and workplace culture.
• Engage in role-alike sessions that connect participants with peers across the state to share strategies, reflect on leadership practices, and build lasting professional networks.
• Participate in cross-team collaboration blocks designed to spark innovative solutions to real challenges as teams plan for the 2026–2027 school year.
• Dedicate meaningful time to team planning built into both days so that each team leaves with concrete next steps tailored to their context.

Participants will strengthen communication, deepen trust, and expand their connections with peers, funders, and partners who are shaping the future of collaboration in California’s schools. The Institute also offers a forum for sharing lessons learned, showcasing exemplary district practices, and inspiring the next phase of labor-management work statewide.

Whether your team is just beginning or continuing its collaborative journey, the 2026 CA LMI Summer Institute offers the space, structure, and inspiration to meet this moment together with purpose.

GALLERY

Previous in-person CA LMI events (pictured above) have shown the impact of joint learning and team building.

Location Map

Countdown to the 2026 Summer Institute