
The Second Annual
Cultures of Thinking Summit
Del Mar, California
Hosted by Del Mar Union School District at Pacific Sky School
January 30 & 31, 2026
Optional days for additional learning and classroom observations will take place on February 1 & 2.
Who are our students becoming as thinkers and learners as a result of their time with us?
Come join with us as we create a community of educators committed to developing their students as powerful thinkers and learners. This goal sits side-by-side with the support of students’ deep learning, academic preparation, feelings of belonging, and sense of agency. The Cultures of Thinking Summit is an opportunity to Immerse yourself in meaningful conversation, rich exploration, and joyous engagements that will equip you to better guide, support, and nurture a culture of thinking amongst the learners you lead. At the CoT Summit you will build a network of support for your ongoing efforts and gather the tools, frameworks, practices, and understanding that will sustain your journey over the long haul. Just like the work of creating cultures of thinking in our school, the CoT Summit is a transformative experience, changing and challenging our assumptions about what constitutes a quality education.
During this two-day conference we will build community around the practices, ideas, and mission of fostering students as powerful thinkers and learner ready to take their place in the world. Extend your learning with optional days of explorations at local museums and through structured observations in classrooms immediately following the main Summit days.
Read more about what past participants have to say about the Cultures of Thinking Summit experience.
“This was exactly what I needed to take my practice to the next level. I have returned to my school feeling inspired and excited to enact these ideas!”
“I loved everything about the event: the location, the themes, the plenaries, the workshops, the presenters, the participants. It was a great mix of people. I loved the duration of the workshops (short and sweet) and the overall schedule with built-in long breaks that allowed us to discuss with participants and explore the space.”
“Great venue. Well laid out in terms of sessions and activities. I learned a lot and I plan on attending again!”
“I really appreciated how often I got to mix and mingle with other participants to both share and learn.”
“It was wonderful to be thinking and talking about cultures of thinking with other people who have been working on it/ with it for some time.”
“The topics, presenters, the space, and the overall vibe of the summit was beyond special. I’d highly recommend this summit.”
“The speakers were engaging. The topics were relevant. The hands-on approach to experiencing routines and protocols was very helpful. The food that was offered was delicious and plentiful. The hosts were polite, gracious, and supportive.”