Welcome to the 2025 Pretzel Winter Institute! Please select sessions appropriate to your role! Most sessions will be held at Freeport Middle School and Freeport High School while a few will be at Empire Elementary School and Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School. Remember to check session descriptions the night before the Institute to confirm times and locations. If you have any questions, please contact Alex T. Valencic, our Professional Learning Coordinator, at alex.valencic@fsd145.org. Thank you!
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"Existence as Resistance" is more than a title—it’s a call to action for educators who wish to protect LGBTQ+ students and staff in today’s complex political landscape. Led by one of district's few Queer and Transgender educator, this session will provide concrete methods and resources for creating safe, inclusive spaces, navigating legal frameworks, and empowering our schools to be havens for all identities.
I will be outlining the challenges of working with our Gen Z / Gen Alpha students, and providing ideas on how to connect with those students rather than working "against" them.
Gain an introduction to the district’s Gender Support Plan, ensuring a supportive and affirming environment for all students. Must attend both sessions to receive credit.
Gain an introduction to the district’s Gender Support Plan, ensuring a supportive and affirming environment for all students. Must attend both sessions to receive credit.
