Because of the tremendous commitment expected of ESIP teachers, participants receive stipends for all ESIP meetings they attend plus two additional days of research and workshop preparation. Teachers make a substantial time commitment when joining the project. After completing the program, each participant is expected to take part in the project's dissemination efforts. There are countless opportunities to present workshops at local in-service programs, state meetings, and national conferences. The ESIP Summer Institute meets for 13 days during the first summer.
Mornings consist of speakers, panels, and discussions.
A variety of teacher-led workshops are offered each afternoon. Reflection is important to the ESIP process. Participants and staff write in journals each day, taking time to reflect on their own practices and questions. Journals are often exchanged and dialogues established among participants and staff. In the first summer, participants identify one or several questions on which they can conduct teacher research over the coming school year.