PRESENT AT BIG BANG
We at Big Picture Learning are truly excited and grateful for everyone who is considering lending their voice, experience, and creativity to Big Bang programming. Big Bang comes alive through the people who shape it—educators, students, leaders, and community partners alike. Our hope is to curate a workshop experience that reflects Big Picture Learning’s values in action: sessions that are interactive, grounded in real school and community needs, and enriched by diverse perspectives, especially youth voice. Together, we aim to create a Big Bang that feels energizing, meaningful, and deeply connected to what matters most for young people and the adults who support them.
​Please note that workshop submissions are by invitation only. In order for us to consider your idea, we ask that you complete our simple Workshop Interest Form no later than February 13. Selected submissions will be invited to present a more formal proposal starting on March 1, with the understanding that complete workshop applications are due by March 31. Click through below to access the Workshop Interest Form and scroll down for important elements to consider as you begin to craft your idea.
Interactivity and Engagement
Your session should be highly interactive, modeling the student-centered approaches emblematic in BPL network schools. Proposals should describe how attendees will actively participate (through discussions, small-group work, hands-on activities, etc.), engaging multiple learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.). An interactive workshop keeps people involved and honors that most people learn best by doing, not just listening.
Relevant Content
Big Bang workshops need to address real needs and/or opportunities faced by the communities we serve. Proposals should feature content that is relevant, current, and directly applicable to improving practice. Whether it’s a new advisory technique, a student internship model, or a leadership approach, the idea should help participants better serve communities. Reviewers will look for clear takeaways that indicate what practical skills, knowledge, competencies, and/or understandings participants will gain. Sessions should leave attendees with something they can use or implement.
Alignment to BPL's Mission
Proposals should align with Big Picture Learning’s core philosophy. This means the session should clearly tie into student-centered practices that BPL champions (often framed by the 10 Distinguishers or the Big Bang strands of Innovation, Learning Communities, Leadership, and Impact). This ensures workshops reinforce and deepen the conference’s focus on what matters most to our communities. Examples include: sharing an innovative method for building a stronger advisory, sharing leadership strategies that led to measurable student success, or infusing love and compassion through practices which embrace vulnerability.
Diversity and Inclusion of Perspectives
Big Picture Learning values diversity in both presenters and audience. The selection committee looks for proposals that honor diverse audiences and interests (e.g. students, leaders, educators, policymakers, etc.). Additionally, diversity in facilitators helps to ensure enrichment across the conference. You are encouraged to explain how the session content or facilitation team reflects diverse perspectives (for example, a panel including students or non-school voices).
Youth Voice and Facilitation
In line with the mantra “nothing about young people without young people,” workshops that center youth voice or are facilitated by or with youth are especially valued. Proposals should indicate how students or alumni will be involved – either as co-facilitators, panelists, or through sharing tangible examples of student-driven work. It is our intention to prioritize and incentivize proposals that include youth by providing registration discounts to young people who are part of selected workshops.
Creative Pedagogy & Format
Proposals should demonstrate thoughtful session design. Reviewers will ask: Is the workshop plan creative, well-structured, and pedagogically sound? Facilitators are encouraged to incorporate techniques like protocols, design thinking exercises, storytelling, or other dynamic methods to create a memorable learning experience.
Accessibility and Inclusion of Design
Big Bang workshops should be accessible to participants of all abilities and experience levels. Presenters should prepare to accommodate different needs such as using readable slides and handouts, describing visuals for visually impaired attendees, and being open to various forms of participation.
Important Dates