Executive function (EF) refers to the brain-based skills that help us plan, organize, regulate emotions and behavior, sustain attention, remember information, and reflect on progress. These skills are critical for accessing learning—yet they are often assumed rather than explicitly taught or supported. When executive function demands exceed a learner’s capacity, barriers to engagement, independence, and academic success emerge, even when content knowledge is strong.

Executive function learning, training, and ongoing support are foundational to creating inclusive classrooms where all students can access learning with dignity and success. Inclusive practices are not just about placement—they require intentional design of environments, instruction, and systems that account for variability in how students plan, regulate, attend, and engage. When educators understand executive function and embed supports proactively, barriers are reduced for all learners, particularly those who are neurodivergent or have historically been marginalized. Strengthening executive function supports moves classrooms away from compliance-based approaches and toward flexible, responsive practices that honor strengths, foster independence, and promote meaningful participation for every student.

The Executive Function Learning Series is a virtual, strengths-based professional learning experience designed to deepen understanding of executive function and equip educators with practical, tiered strategies that can be immediately embedded into classroom routines, instructional practices, and schoolwide systems.

Below, you will find a list of session topics along with links to presentation resources, including recordings, handouts, and slide decks. If you are interested in attending any of the upcoming sessions, please complete the Google Form to register.

Core Topics & Learning Opportunities

Session 1: Introduction to Executive Function

Session 2: Self-Regulation

Session 3: Organization & Planning

Session 4: Task Initiation & Sustained Attention

Session 5: Working Memory (Wednesday, February 18th: 2:30 – 4:00 pm)

Session 6: Situational Awareness (Tuesday, March 31st: 3:00 – 4:30 pm)

Session 7: Cognitive Flexibility (Wednesday, April 15th: 2:30 – 4:00 pm)

Session 8: Goal Setting & Self-Monitoring (Tuesday, May 5th: 3:00 – 4:30 pm)