First-Year Fellowship: Time Commitment Overview (2026–2027)
Here's a look at what your first year as a FUSE Fellow involves for the 2026–2027 school year — every touchpoint is designed to build your capacity and connect you with a network of educators doing this work alongside you.
Summer Professional Learning Institute (PLI)
FUSE Pre-Work | June 6–16
Before attending the summer PLI, each Fellow completes a 90-minute introductory online module. It's a straightforward way to arrive oriented and ready.
Summer PLI | June 16–18
The summer PLI is a critical launch experience for all Fellows. This two-and-a-half-day event features an engaging mix of interactive sessions and an opportunity to build connections with more than 200 teachers beginning their FUSE journey together. Fellows may join in person or virtually.
- The summer PLI will be held at the Thompson Conference Center at The University of Texas at Austin.
- View discounted hotel options near UT Austin
- A light/continental breakfast and lunch will be provided each day for fellows attending in person
Virtual Kick-Off Meetings (All Fellows)
Starting in late July, we'll hold 30-minute virtual meetings every Monday and Wednesday at 2:00 pm Central — a straightforward way to get comfortable with administering your Student Engagement Modules before students arrive. Each Fellow attends one session the week before their first day of instruction. We'll show you how to register in Canvas, our online learning platform. International Fellows will be offered an alternative time that works for your schedule.
School Year Commitments
During the school year, Fellows are placed into one of two cohorts — Blue or Gold — for Professional Learning Institutes and Virtual Coaching sessions. You'll learn your group assignment in early June 2026. All sessions are virtual and available either synchronously or asynchronously.
Note: Synchronous PLI attendance requires classroom coverage. We encourage Fellows to coordinate this with their campus administrators in advance.
2 Professional Learning Institutes (8:30 am – 4:00 pm CST)
Fall PLI
- Blue Year 1 Fellows: October 8, 2026
- Gold Year 1 Fellows: October 15, 2026
Spring PLI
- Blue Year 1 Fellows: February 11, 2027
- Gold Year 1 Fellows: February 18, 2027
4 Virtual Coaching Sessions
Held in September, November, January, and April — 60 minutes each, with multiple scheduling options outside the school day.