Indiana Early College Summit 2026

Place-based education has a place in the rural classroom AND in dual credit classes. PBE provides opportunities to cultivate curiosity, promote community connection, and achieve rigor—all while having fun. In this session, teachers will learn about the history of PBE and how it connects to Universal Design for Learning. See real examples of PBE projects and receive guidance on local resources and partnerships you may not have considered in your own community.

As Early College programs work to bridge the gap between high school and higher education, Place-Based Education (PBE) offers a powerful way to make learning relevant, rigorous, and deeply connected to students’ lived experiences. This session explores how teachers from all disciplines can use local environments, community partners, and real-world contexts to strengthen academic learning while promoting a strong college-going culture. The workshop will highlight flexible, low-prep strategies for integrating place-based learning into English, math, science, social studies, arts, and CTE courses. Educators will explore practical examples such as local data investigations, community storytelling, neighborhood mapping, and partnerships with nearby institutions—activities that deepen critical thinking and make academic content feel purposeful.