The fastest-growing schools in America don’t look like the schools of the past. Microschools, virtual schools, hybrid programs, homeschools, and new models are moving from niche to mainstream as families demand personalization, flexibility, and specialization — and as districts look for new ways to meet their students’ needs. Educators are increasingly stepping into entrepreneurship, and leveraging technology to expand access for their students. But building and scaling a school today means navigating policy and operational realities: zoning codes, accreditation rules, evolving state policies, complex ESA payment systems, and tight capital markets. This session gets real about the friction leaders face — while spotlighting the conditions that allow innovation to flourish. The next generation of schools is being built right now. Join the leaders shaping what makes that growth possible.

Speakers:
Allison Serafin, Building Hope
Amar Kumar, KaiPod Learning
Caroline Allen, Center for Education Reform
Kelly Smith, Prenda
Robin Winder, FlexPoint and Florida Virtual School

Moderator:
Kerry McDonald, Author of Joyful Learning