2026 TEACH Academy, July 22-23, 2026

Presented by the Campus-Community Compact, the TEACH Academy is a 2-day interactive experience designed to strengthen instructional practices using a lens that focuses on student-centered educational practices. The TEACH Academy consists of two keynote presentations that are open to all Champaign County community members, educators and TEACH Scholars. A light breakfast will be provided for all keynote attendees. During the afternoon sessions, TEACH Scholars will have the opportunity to further engage with keynotes and other participants in a series of workshops and informational sessions.

2026 Keynote Speakers

Wednesday, July 22 | 9 a.m.

Thursday, July 23 | 9 a.m.

Location and Parking

The TEACH Academy will take place at the Campus Instructional Facility on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Free parking will be provided for all participants at the North Campus parking structure on Level 2 or above: 1201 W University Ave, Urbana, IL 61801.

TEACH Academy Schedule

8-8:30 a.m. Registration, sign in, and continental breakfast

8:30-9 a.m. Welcome and greeting from the university and participating districts

9-10 a.m. Keynote addresses

• Wednesday, July 22 — Jeff Spencer
• Thursday, July 23 — Yamiley Jean-Simon

10 a.m.-4 p.m.  TEACH Academy Scholars Program

• Conversation and discussion time with keynotes
• Breakout sessions bridging theory to classroom practice
• Identifying the components of a successful collaboration with the Center for Education in Small Urban Communities
• Networking opportunities with colleagues in other participating districts

Registration for TEACH Academy 2026 is now CLOSED