Preparing for a Strong Start: What to know about TLI 2026

Each year, DSST’s Teaching & Learning Institute (TLI) provides dedicated time for learning, collaboration, and preparation before students arrive on campus.

TLI is an important part of how we launch the school year and gives staff the opportunity to strengthen their practice, align on priorities and prepare for a successful year ahead.

TLI at a Glance

Dates: August 3-12

Most TLI programming will take place at your school and will be led by your campus leadership team.

School leaders will provide details about campus-specific schedules, activities, and expectations.

Network Content Days: August 5-6

As part of TLI, instructional staff will participate in Network Content Days, which bring educators together across campuses for content-specific learning and collaboration.

These sessions are designed to deepen practice, strengthen alignment, and provide dedicated time to collaborate with colleagues across the network.

• Daily Schedule: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Locations: Network Content Day locations are assigned by content area. Content sessions will take place at:
  • Elevate Campus
  • Aurora Science & Tech Campus
  • College View Campus
  • Cedar Campus

Note: Room assignments by site and content area are available on the Helix.

Important info

Lunch

While coffee and light snacks will be provided throughout the day, lunch will not be provided during Network Content Days this year.

Staff should plan to:

• Bring a packed lunch.
• Purchase lunch nearby during the one-hour lunch break.
• Visit one of the food trucks that will be available at each location.

Parking

Parking is available at each site, though availability may vary. If possible, please consider carpooling, as parking can be limited at some locations. Additional site-specific parking information will be shared in the Know Before You Go that will be emailed to you on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

What to Bring

To ensure you're prepared for a productive day, please bring:

• Laptop and charger
• Preferred note-taking materials
• Water bottle
• Additional snacks
• Packed lunch (if desired)

Attire

Dress for Network Content Days is casual. Feel free to represent your school, interests, college, or community. Because temperatures can vary throughout the day, consider bringing layers.

Session resources

Session materials and other important resources will be shared through:

• Helix
• Content leads
• Follow-up email communications

Attendance

If you are unable to attend TLI Network Content Days for any reason, please notify your manager and follow DSST's PTO policy.

TLI is an opportunity to learn from colleagues, strengthen instructional practice, and ensure we're ready for a successful start to the school year. We look forward to learning alongside you and kicking off another great year together.