Learning Links Newsletter
Learning Forward New Jersey- June 2026
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the educators, leaders, partners, and volunteers who continue to strengthen our community. Together, we have created opportunities to learn, connect, and lead through meaningful conversations, professional learning experiences, and collaborative partnerships.
This year has demonstrated the power of coming together around a shared purpose. Whether through our Chat & Chews, Day of Learning, networking events, or expanding partnerships, we have seen firsthand how collective effort enriches the experiences of educators across our state and extends our impact.
As my term as President comes to a close, I want to thank each of you for your support, engagement, and commitment to our mission. Serving in this role has been both an honor and a privilege. I am especially grateful to our dedicated board members, volunteers, and partners whose leadership and service continue to move our organization forward.
I am delighted to welcome Betzi Beck as our incoming President. Betzi brings passion, vision, and a deep commitment to supporting educators, and I am confident the organization will continue to thrive under her leadership.
Over the past two years, I have been inspired by our collective ability to reimagine what is possible and build a stronger foundation for the future.
As you explore this newsletter, I hope you'll take pride in all that we have accomplished together and feel inspired by the opportunities ahead. Thank you for being part of this remarkable community.
With gratitude,
Peggy
This year, educators from across the state came together to learn, reflect, and connect through our Chat ‘n Chews, Day of Learning, and collaborative events. These opportunities created space for meaningful conversations, practical strategies, and professional relationships that continue to strengthen our community of learning leaders. We've connected with 9 Districts. Engaged 256 Educators. Hosted 164 Chat & Chew Registrants. Held 820+ Fresh Conversations. Offered 10 hours of professional learning.
Since January 2026, we’ve been breaking down silos and sparking real collaboration. Supported by a digital network of over 1,500 followers, we are creating spaces where the voices shaping tomorrow’s classrooms can be heard, connected, and amplified.
We are closing out our Chat and Chew series with Heather Lageman, author of the featured The Learning Journal article, "Learn to think critically about AI: A Tool for PLCs." Heather will join us live to share an exclusive tool she developed specifically to help educators move past the basic buzz and start thinking more critically about AI. This isn’t a magic-bullet "breakthrough"; it is a practical framework designed to spark deep, meaningful PLC work, drive purposeful classroom implementation, and enhance ongoing professional learning.
Whether you are a teacher or an administrator, this session will give you the concrete strategy you need to navigate the future of learning confidently.
Leave with new ideas for cultivating a more positive learning environment!
Cost: FREE
Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Time: 4:00-5:00 PM
Great work happens when organizations unite around a shared purpose. Over the past year, we have expanded our partnerships to amplify opportunities for educators and maximize our collective impact.
Building on that momentum, this summer’s partner event, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, will bring together leaders and practitioners to strengthen professional learning across the state.
Interested in joining us? Contact LFNJ today to explore partnership opportunities.
Theory of Change and Logic Models
This month's tool introduces two complementary planning resources that can help districts move from vision to action: Theory of Change and Logic Models. A Theory of Change helps teams clearly define a problem of practice, identify desired outcomes, and articulate the assumptions behind their improvement efforts. A Logic Model then turns that vision into an actionable plan by outlining the resources, activities, and measurable outcomes needed to achieve success. Together, these tools support strategic planning, implementation, and continuous improvement.
Why Using This Tool Matters to You:
These tools help turn big ideas into clear, manageable steps so you can focus your time and efforts on what matters most for student and educator success.
How to Use Them:
Identify a problem of practice.
Define the desired future state.
Conduct a root cause analysis.
Determine the knowledge, attitudes, skills, aspirations, and behaviors (KASAB) needed for success.
Develop a Theory of Change, then create a Logic Model to outline the actions and resources required to achieve the desired outcomes.
To learn more, read the full article, "Theory of Change and Logic Models: Two Tools with Complementary Purposes," from The Learning Professional (April 2026).