An Invitation to inspire
Genius & Joy in Your Curriculum

A free professional learning experience for NYC educators

Saturday, October 3, 2026

8:00 am to 3:00 pm

The Puente Educational Complex, 249 E 109th Street

Join us for a free interactive and invigorating professional development experience with award-wining education leader, Dr. Gholdy Muhammad. Dr. Muhammad will present her innovative Genius & Joy Curriculum, a comprehensive culturally and historically responsive Kindergarten–Grade 5 solution, that is built on the Five Pursuits Framework of Identity, Skills, Intellect, Criticality, and Joy. The Genius & Joy Curriculum features Literacy instruction while extending to Art, Mathematics, Physical Education/Health, Science, and Social Studies topics in every lesson.

This free event is open to New York City educators but space is limited!

The professional learning day will be full of student genius, interactive learning, wonder, laughter, inquiry, imagination, and . . . dancing! Educators will learn how the Genius & Joy Curriculum was designed, its unique features, and its alignment to the New York State Portrait of a Graduate that is grounded in Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education. Educators will hear from the Genius Garden writers and engage in a simulated, hands-on Unit Plan. The day concludes with a Joy Dance Party!

Principals, instructional leaders, and teachers are highly encouraged to attend as we together unlock our own genius and joy—and give children the learning experience they truly deserve.

Agenda

As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.

Check-In & Light Refreshments

8:00-8:45 am

Student Performance and Introduction

9:00-9:15 am

Gholdy's Talk: Introduction to the Genius & Joy Curriculum

9:15-10:00 am

Break

10:00-10:15 am

Panel Discussion and Questions with the Genius Garden Writers

10:20-11:15 am

Lunch

11:30 am-12:30 pm

Breakout Groups: Experience the Genius and Joy Curriculum

12:30-2:00 pm

Closing Activities and Joy Dance Party

2:00-3:00 pm

  • "What I love most is the flexibility. I can go at my own pace, revisit lessons, and keep learning whenever it works for me."

    Former Customer

  • "Even as a total beginner, I never felt lost. The step-by-step structure and encouragement along the way made all the difference."

    Former Customer

  • "This has been such a worthwhile investment in myself."

    Former Customer

How It Works

  • Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.

  • Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.

  • After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.

  • We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.

  • Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.