In today’s educational climate, disagreement can feel risky. Yet deep learning depends on our ability to engage across difference with curiosity and care.

In this pre-conference workshop, Dr. Andrew Westover (High Museum of Art, Atlanta) introduces ethical deliberation as pedagogy, practices that help learners clarify complex issues, surface differing perspectives, and connect through dialogue. Using works from the museum’s collection, participants will explore how art can serve as a powerful entry point for dialogue, slowing thinking and deepening interpretation in nuanced and charged conversations.

The session culminates in an intercultural dialogue experience, facilitated by Dr. Andrew Westover. Participants will leave with concrete strategies for integrating art and dialogue into classrooms and school communities.

Location: The High Museum of Art, located a 10-minute walk from The Starling Hotel
Date/Time: Thursday, April 9, 2026 // 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Cost: $85 per person (USD), limited spots available.

Jimmy Carter rose to the Presidency at a crossroads of diplomatic challenges for the United States. What life experiences can prepare a President to function effectively on the world stage? How does the Constitution equip our chief executive to engage other nations and resolve crises?

During a visit to the Carter Presidential Library, educators will participate in facilitated dialogue and primary source analysis as they review four case studies to engage students in civic literacy: The Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal Treaties, Diplomatic Relations with China, and the Hostage Crisis in Iran.

How do these examples of President Carter’s diplomacy in action influence our thinking about today’s international relations? How can we use historical documents and case studies to foster discussion and dialogue around current events with students?

Location: The Carter Presidential Library (transportation provided)
Date/Time: Thursday, April 9, 2026 // 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Cost: $85 per person (USD), limited spots available

Global education programs are most effective when they are grounded in a clear vision, aligned systems, and shared benchmarks for quality. As the field continues to evolve, the frameworks we use to assess and strengthen our work must evolve as well.

In this two-hour pre-conference workshop, we will introduce the newly updated and refreshed edition of An Annotated Guide to Global Education. Participants will be guided through the Institute’s Global Education Standards, including Vision and Purpose, Governance and Leadership, Teaching and Learning, Stakeholder Communications, Program Management, and Risk Management, and explore how the revised Guide can support schools in developing, reviewing, refining, or enhancing their global programs.

Drawing on updated benchmarks, expanded explanations, and current examples from member schools, the session will highlight how global education leaders have used the Guide to assess practice, set priorities, and strengthen programs over time. Participants will leave with an updated copy of the new edition of the publication An Annotated Guide to Global Education as well as practical strategies for applying them within their own school contexts.

Location: The Starling Hotel

Date/Time: Thursday, April 9, 2026 //  2:00 – 4:00 pm

Cost: $75, includes new copy of the updated Annotated Guide

Join us for a 45-minute informal pre-conference session to learn more about the many ways the Institute for Global Learning supports educators and schools. Meet fellow participants who are new to the IGL community, connect with Institute for Global Learning staff, and meet and chat informally with current and former Board members about the conference, IGL resources, and opportunities for ongoing professional learning, student programming, and networking.

This pre-conference gathering is a chance to get oriented, build connections, and feel grounded in the community before the opening session and reception.