Belin-Blank Advanced Learner Institute

Purpose: To facilitate an engaging professional learning experience that builds the capacity in meeting the needs of advanced learners for K-8 educators through a specific focus on practical instructional ideas, social & emotional learning, the unique needs of rural and small-town schools, and an opportunity for networking among participants. 

Intended Outcomes: 

• Acquire practical ideas to better meet the needs of advanced learners 

• Foster advocacy for advanced learners 

• Understand the unique social and emotional needs of advanced learners 

• Provide opportunities to network with like-minded colleagues  

• Inspire the development of a personal professional goal that envelope the enhancement of instructional practice to better meet the needs of advanced learners 

Iowa Licensure Renewal Unit

All B-BALI participants can receive 1 Iowa Licensure Renewal Unit (ILRU) included with their registration fee. Educators outside of Iowa who wish to use this learning experience for licensure renewal credit may also register to receive a certificate but must check with their administrator or licensure governing body for credit approval. To Earn 1 ILRU:

1. Attend the entire on-campus Belin-Blank Advanced Learner Institute on July 15, 2026.
2. Complete all requirements of the online course by August 15, 2026: 
   1. Session Log: one entry for each breakout session you attend and the keynote presentation. Each entry should include:
      • a summary of the information shared (a minimum of two paragraphs)
      • how you might be able to use the information in your local setting
      • questions or wonderings about the session
   2. Share your professional goal for B-BALI (why did you attend?). Please include:
      • How B-BALI supported progress toward your goal
      • Your next steps toward reaching this goal
      • The intended outcome you are seeking
      • The resources & support you need
      • How will you celebrate your success along the way
   3. Create one lesson focused on meeting the needs of advanced learners using the learning from B-BALI - Tiered Lesson Plan Template

University of Iowa Credit

B-BALI participants may earn university credit (and/or an Iowa Licensure Renewal Units). Educators who register for B-BALI may pursue either undergraduate or graduate level academic credit (additional fees and registration required).

1. university credit is not included in the cost of B-BALI
2. there are additional requirements beyond completing the ILRU requirements
3. it will be easiest if you complete the university registration before arriving at B-BALI
4. payment will go to the University of Iowa directly when registering
5. you will be taking the course in the summer, but it will be listed as a fall course on transcripts.

To Earn 1 University of Iowa Credit

1. If you do not have a University of Iowa HawkID, apply to Distance & Online Education.
2. Follow the instructions in the email you'll receive from the Office of Admissions. Then, log into MyUI and register for BBC/PSQF:5194 Continuing Education Individual Study (1 semester hour)
3. Complete the university credit requirements in the online course by August 15.

The registration cost for B-BALI is $175.

We have purposely aimed to set the registration cost at a nominal level to make the event as accessible as possible for educators. It includes:

• full day attendance to B-BALI
• the event program (a physical copy!)
• continental breakfast (with coffee)
• and afternoon snacks

Parking, lunch, and lodging costs are the responsibility of the attendee. If you're interested in lodging, which includes free parking, let us know! The Graduate Hotel in downtown Iowa City is offering a great deal!

There will be a $50 cancellation fee for requests received up to three weeks (June 25 by 12PM CST) before the start of B-BALI. Unfortunately, there are no refunds after this date.

If you have any questions about B-BALI, don't hesitate to contact us at educators@belinblank.org

Lodging (Graduate Hotel)