Overview
How do we teach the skills of bridging and dialogue in U.S. classrooms and schools? What strengths or qualities can we draw on to communicate across differences? What are the protocols and practices that best support constructive dialogue—and kinder, happier schools where everyone belongs?
This community of practice for educators explores aspirational ways of bringing people together—in the spirit of connection, authentic listening, and healing.
This Summer 2026, we are offering a seven-session Greater Good Educators community of practice (CoP), “Bridging for Belonging,” centering on three key qualities: curiosity (“Tell me more; I want to understand”), intellectual humility (“I may be wrong, and I’m open to changing my thinking”), and empathy (“I feel with you–and your perspective”). Participants will have access to three self-paced learning modules on these three qualities, each featuring a mix of videos, short articles, and research-based practices that they can apply in their schools and classrooms.
Participants who fully engage in this summer learning program will have the opportunity to apply for the pilot of our Greater Good Schools Program, a year-long community of practice that offers a $350 stipend to alumni who apply what they learn in this Greater Good Educators CoP to a project in their teaching and learning context.
Logistics & Cost
Who Can Register?
Middle school teachers, high school teachers, and secondary school leaders are strongly encouraged to register. However, this community of practice is open to all U.S. educators, including:
- Classroom teachers (K-12)
- School site administrators
- School mental health professionals and counselors
- Pre-service educators
- Para-educators
If you are a non-U.S. educator looking for a community of practice, please consider one of our other CoP programs.
When and Where Will We Meet?
- Each Wednesday, July 8-August 19, 3:30-5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, on Zoom (July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19)
What is the Cost?
Based on the generous support of the Webber Family Foundation, we are able to make this program more accessible to educators at the following rates:
- Base Rate: $99 for seven 90-minute sessions
- Reduced Rate: $59
- This cost reflects our acknowledgment that there are people whose economic circumstances would prevent them from having access to this course if expected to pay the full amount. USE THE CODE “BRIDGING59” AT CHECKOUT TO APPLY THIS RATE.
- If the reduced rate is still prohibitive and you need additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at ggsceducation@berkeley.edu.
Clock Hours/Credits
- After completing this CoP, you will receive a certificate with 15 clock hours from UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. You will also be eligible to earn one unit of graduate-level credit from the University of the Pacific through Courses4teachers (additional fees apply). For more information about this option, visit Courses4Teachers and review their process for registration.
Learning Objectives
- Define curiosity, intellectual humility, and empathy.
- Reflect on the role of these three qualities in your personal and professional life.
- Consider how these qualities might help you to bridge differences and/or nurture a sense of belonging in classrooms and schools.
- Identify the benefits of these qualities to yourself and others—including students, colleagues, and school communities.
- Implement related practices (either a practice from Greater Good or something you create or are already doing) in your school setting and bring your insights and wonderings to each community of practice Zoom session.
- Share, ponder, question, and explore—in community—how these qualities can enhance learning, relationships, school culture, and well-being.
- Listen mindfully to your colleagues to promote understanding, connection, and belonging.
CoP Facilitators
Amy L. Eva, Ph.D.
Amy L. Eva, Ph.D., is the associate education director at the Greater Good Science Center. During her twelve-year tenure as a teacher educator, she became particularly passionate about educator resilience and self-care, and she loves to conduct workshops that focus on teacher well-being. More about Amy L. Eva.
Argos Gonzalez
Argos is an equity-driven educator and thought leader dedicated to fostering positive change through mindfulness and community engagement. More about Argos Gonzalez.