In this video, Michaela Ross, an aerospace engineer, reflects on the experience of learning in a culturally responsive classroom and what she hopes readers will gain from the book The Magnitude of Us and its accompanying learning series.
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un/HUSH Framework - Lesson Plans & Curricular Resources
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About
Modules: An Overview with Dr. Marlee Bunch
This professional development series consists of four required asynchronous modules (modules one through four) and one optional module (module five). Each module is self-paced and includes an introduction, an overview of its objectives and clearly defined learning goals.
The modules combine essential content knowledge with opportunities for reflection, inquiry and analysis related to culturally responsive teaching practices. Through these activities, participants will develop actionable strategies for creating and sustaining culturally responsive classrooms and leadership. In addition, participants will engage in tasks such as constructing essential questions, analyzing and designing curricular materials and assessing existing curriculum and texts—all while reflecting on experiences and learning.
The professional development series can be navigated easily using the buttons below. We encourage you to complete each module in its entirety before moving on to the next one. Watch a brief overview with Dr. Bunch.
Questions? Visit our Module Learning Series FAQs or contact us at culturallyresponsive@education.illinois.edu for support or inquiries.
Educators and School Leaders:
Are you a K-12 administrator or educator looking for support to implement the ISBE Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading Standards? Then these professional learning opportunities are just for you. Please see the descriptions of each below. Feel free to email us with any questions. Registration links are below.
The Magnitude of Us Learning Series (101)
The Magnitude of Us Learning Series invites educators and leaders to reflect deeply on identity, positionality, and community as foundations for culturally responsive teaching and leading. This series centers on the belief that meaningful change begins with self-examination and collective responsibility. This asynchronous professional learning series supports educators in building a strong foundation in culturally responsive teaching and leading. Through guided reading, reflection, journaling, discussion, and practical application, participants examine how identity, power, and community shape classrooms and leadership spaces.
The series consists of four required modules and one optional extension and is grounded in the core text, The Magnitude of Us, which serves as the anchor throughout the learning experience. While the book is not required, it is strongly recommended.
Who This Series is For
This series is designed for teachers, school leaders, administrators, counselors, and pre-service teachers. No prior expertise in culturally responsive practices is required. Participants will build on what they already do well, naming, strengthening, and expanding those practices with greater intentionality.
What You Will Gain
Illinois educators and leaders: Micro-credential on your Professional Educator License and 42–50 Professional Development Hours. Non-Illinois Educators & Pre-Service Teachers: Letter of completion and a self-paced learning experience.
Register to be a part of the spring 2026 Magnitude of Us cohort.
Unlearning the Hush Learning Series and Microcredential (102)
About This Learning Series
The Unlearning the Hush Learning Series calls us to reflect on how history, advocacy, and storytelling continue to shape today’s classrooms and leadership spaces. The series delves into historical and systemic barriers, as well as focuses on the important role that our students have in creating culturally responsive spaces.
The Unlearning the Hush Learning Series is an asynchronous professional learning series consisting of four required modules and one optional extension. Each module blends history, oral storytelling, reflection, and practice, positioning you to connect past struggles with present possibilities and extending the learning from The Magnitude of Us Learning Series. If you have not yet taken The Magnitude of Us Learning Series, you are still eligible to enroll in Unlearning the Hush. We believe there is a benefit in grounding work with a text. Unlearning the Hush is the text that will anchor this learning series. You can order the book from the University of Illinois Press. The coupon code F25UIP will allow you to receive a 30% discount.
Who is This Learning Series For?
This learning series is designed for all educators — teachers, leaders, and lifelong learners — who care deeply about their students and communities. It will challenge you and introduce new ideas, but there’s nothing to fear. The truth is, good teachers are always learning. We know that becoming better for our students means stepping outside of our comfort zones and reflecting on what we already do well. This series simply helps name, strengthen, and expand those practices.
Which Learning Series Should I Take?
If you have not yet taken the Magnitude of Us Learning Series, we recommend starting with that one. However, if you have already taken that learning series, or feel as though you are a bit further along in your learning and knowledge regarding culturally responsive practices, you can start with the Unlearning the Hush Learning Series. You can register to be a part of the Unlearning the Hush learning series and cohort for spring 2026.
How the Unlearning the Hush Learning Series Differs from The Magnitude of Us Learning Series
While The Magnitude of Us Learning Series established a strong foundation through reflective practices, Unlearning the Hush Learning Series extends that work in several ways. This series was developed directly in response to participant feedback from The Magnitude of Us. Each module includes not only educator-facing content but also a student-facing tool or activity, providing optional resources that extend learning into the classroom and center student voice. The series builds beyond reflection, equipping educators with practices that acknowledge systemic barriers and create pathways for meaningful change. We hope that you will find this series worthwhile and in support of the important work you do for students and families.
What You Will Gain
- Illinois educators and leaders: A micro-credential (badge on your Professional Educator License), plus 40 professional development hours
- Non-Illinois educators and pre-service teachers: A letter of completion and a self-paced learning experience to deepen your practice in culturally responsive teaching and leading
What to Expect from Both Learning Series
- A synchronous check-in midway through the series, which could occur in the form of a PD, connecting space via Zoom, etc.
- Ongoing support and Q&A via email: culturallyresponsive@education.illinois.edu
- Discussion and reflection grounded in real teaching and leading contexts.
By participating in these learning series, you are part of a collective effort to shape learning spaces that affirm and empower all students. We are grateful and excited that you’re joining us on this journey.
Watch a brief overview about these series with Dr. Marlee Bunch.
For inquiries or support, visit our Module Learning Series FAQs page or contact us at culturallyresponsive@education.illinois.edu.
Professional Development Hours and Microcredential
Illinois teachers who complete modules one through four will earn 42 professional development hours. Those who complete all five modules (one through five) will earn 50 professional development hours and become eligible for an Illinois State Board of Education microcredential.
Microcredentials provide Illinois educators with a way to demonstrate specialized competencies. Upon completing this series, Illinois educators with a professional education license will be eligible for a permanent notation on their license, indicating to current and future employers that they have completed advanced and focused training in culturally responsive teaching.
Instructions on Accessing the Magnitude of Us Canvas Page
The professional development (PD) modules are now hosted on Canvas Free For Teachers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. This learning series will use a cohort model and run once every semester. Each cohort will cap at 100 in order to provide adequate support to participants.
Pre-registration for Spring 2026 Cohorts
Missed your chance to join the Magnitude of Us Learning Series this round? Don’t worry—registration is now open for the Spring 2026 cohort beginning January 15! More details will follow as the date for the start of the cohort draws closer. Reserve your spot today.
Dates for Cohorts
July 15 - Nov. 30
January 15 - May 31
Please note that the course schedule varies for teachers and leaders, and the course will close when it reaches capacity. You will need a Canvas account, which is free and accessible via the above link.