Institute for New Teachers of Color in Independent Schools

Our Story

This institute started with a social media post. In 2021, a group of administrators of color asked, “What professional development is out there for teachers of color who are new to independent schools?” We weren’t satisfied with the number of existing offerings.

So we created our own institute.

As faculties at independent schools become increasingly diverse, it is critical that new teachers of color receive the support they need to thrive in their roles. The Institute for New Teachers of Color in Independent Schools is an intimate, three-day conference for new teachers of color. Participants will be reflecting on where they are in their career journeys, learning about independent school culture, honing their craft as educators, and developing personal mission statements to ground them as they navigate the next year. Mentorship will also be an important piece of the conference. Participants will be matched with an advisor who will support them through the institute and beyond. Sessions will be facilitated by JohnEric Advento and Susan Yao, along with guest speakers.

Dozens of educators have participated over the past several years, from Georgia to New York, from Kindergarten teachers to DEI practitioners, from recent college graduates to experienced charter school teachers. We hope you join our 2026 cohort!