Breakout Sessions

INSPIRE offers students the opportunity to engage in interactive, discussion-based workshops led by experienced facilitators and youth advocates. Students will participate in two workshop sessions — one in the morning and one in the afternoon — and may choose a different session for each round. Students on the same team are not required to attend the same sessions. 

The session descriptions below are designed to help students select the workshops that interest them most. Please share these descriptions with your students so they are prepared to make their selections when registration opens. On March 9, you will receive a link to register your students and have them select their workshop sessions. Registration is first come, first served, so please encourage your students to make their selections as soon as possible after the link is sent. 

Please note: Community Schools is offered in the morning session only, and Understanding the Economy is offered in the afternoon session only. All other sessions are available during both the morning and afternoon.

  • Defining Your Leadership Style

    In this session, explore the different styles of leadership and discover what type best aligns with your strengths and values. You'll gain tools to define your personal leadership approach and understand how to leverage your unique abilities to inspire and lead others effectively.

  • Advocacy and Taking Action on Issues You Care About

    This session empowers students to turn passion into action by learning the fundamentals of advocacy and organizing. Participants will explore how to identify issues they care about, build coalitions, and mobilize support to create change in their schools and communities.  Students will leave with a practical framework and tools to speak up, engage others, and move ideas from awareness to meaningful action.

  • Truth in the Feed: Tackling Misinformation and Using Social Media for Social Change

    Social media is a powerful tool for activism, but it’s also a breeding ground for misinformation. In this workshop, learn how to identify misinformation and develop strategies to use your platforms for positive, informed social change.

  • Public Speaking: Tips and Techniques for Effective Public Speaking

    Public speaking is one of the most powerful tools you have as a leader. In this session, you’ll learn how to craft compelling messages, engage your audience, and deliver your speeches with confidence and clarity.

  • Building Stronger Communities: The Power of Community Schools in Shaping Our Future

    Morning Session 

    Explore how community schools serve as vital hubs that support not just education but the broader needs of communities. This workshop will focus on how students and leaders can collaborate to create more inclusive, supportive, and successful schools.    

  • Understanding the Economy Today: How Wealth Inequality Shapes Our Schools and Communities

    Afternoon Session

    This session breaks down how today’s economy works and why wealth inequality matters. Students will explore how economic systems impact schools, neighborhoods, and opportunities—and learn how understanding these connections can help them advocate for more fair and inclusive communities.