This year’s SXSW EDU conference in Austin, Texas, is right around the corner! We’re thrilled to announce that several of our partners and collaborators will be leading compelling discussions across a variety of topics, from rethinking traditional funding models to fostering inclusion in ed tech and building career-aligned pathways for students. These sessions highlight innovative ideas and collaborations tackling some of education’s biggest challenges. Explore the panels below, and don’t forget to add your favorites to your conference schedule!
Seeding Innovation: The Power of Breakthrough Funding
How can funding models keep up with the rapid changes and opportunities of the 21st century? Breakthrough funding strategies are transforming how bold ideas are discovered, supported, and scaled. In this discussion, leaders from philanthropy and innovation will examine how funding approaches can empower innovators, tackle critical challenges, and drive change in education.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Joanna Cannon, Walton Family Foundation
- Kumar Garg, Renaissance Philanthropy
- Nancy Lue, Valhalla Foundation
- Peter Bergman, Learning Collider
When? March 4, 11:30 am
Where? Salon H, Hilton Austin Downtown
Ed tech for Every Learner
Ed tech innovation is booming, but are these solutions truly reaching all learners in meaningful ways? This session will explore how forward-thinking leaders are harnessing new technologies to drive education impact. Join this session to discover the strategies advancing personalized learning and learn how innovators are tackling bias to reshape education for the communities that need it most.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Michele Leardo, Walton Family Foundation
- Rebecca Kockler, Magpie Literacy
- Medha Tare, Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop
- Joshua Ling, Podsie Innovation Lab
When? March 5, 11:30 am
Where? Room 17AB, Austin Convention Center
Industry-Aligned K-12 Pathways & the STEM Jobs of Tomorrow
As the STEM field evolves, so do the skills students need to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce. Education leaders and employers are reimagining K-12 learning to ensure students are prepared for these shifts. This panel will explore how career-connected education, experiential learning, and innovative graduation standards are shaping new, competency-driven approaches that equip students for success in STEM careers.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Brienne Bellavita, Walton Family Foundation
- Jeff Weld, Jeff Weld LLC
- Dawn Jones, Intel Corporation
- Katie Jenner, Indiana Department of Education
When? March 5, 1:00 pm
Where? Room 12AB, Austin Convention Center
Reinventing High School for the 21st Century & Beyond
High school is ready for a transformation. Education leaders, innovators, and philanthropists are rethinking how to prepare students for college, careers, and life in a rapidly evolving world. From competency-based learning to innovative school models, this session will explore strategies that are reshaping high school education. Be sure to join to discover bold ideas redefining the future of learning.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Jamie Jutila, Walton Family Foundation
- Brook Stafford-Brizard, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching
- Babak Mostaghimi, LearnerStudio
- Sarah Navarro, XQ Institute
When? March 3, 4:00 pm
Where? Salon C, Hilton Austin Downtown
Early-Stage Funding for K-12 Schools
Securing early-stage funding is one of the biggest hurdles for new schools, often delaying or even derailing their launch. This discussion will dive into innovative strategies for accessing predevelopment funding and making the most of limited resources to bring school facilities to life. Attendees will have the chance to hear practical examples and solutions designed to help school leaders streamline operations, create thriving learning environments, and energize their communities from day one.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Kathryn McHugh, Civic Builders
- Nguyen Huynh, Walton Family Foundation
- Kimberly Neal, BELIEVE Schools
- Roblin Webb, Freedom Prep Charter Schools
When? March 3, 2:30 pm
Where? Salon C, Hilton Austin Downtown
Innovate and Educate: Diverse Funding Models for Ed R&D
Creating meaningful change in education requires rethinking how research and development is funded, and diverse challenges call for equally diverse approaches. Be sure to attend this discussion to explore creative funding strategies and cross-sector partnerships that are driving impactful solutions and shaping the future of education R&D.
Speakers
- Kumar Garg, Renaissance Philanthropy
- Frances Messano, NewSchools Venture Fund
- Sarah Johnson, Teaching Lab
- Michele Leardo, Walton Family Foundation
When? March 4, 4:00 pm
Where? Room 9AB, Austin Convention Center
Data-Driven Equity: R&D Platforms for Math Learning
Math is a foundation for both academic achievement and career success, yet many students struggle to engage with it. Speakers will share innovative strategies that harness research tools and partnerships to transform how math is taught. Join to discover how these approaches are breaking down barriers, building confidence, and expanding opportunities for all students to succeed in math.
*This is an accredited session for CPE credit.
Speakers
- Bryan Richardson, Gates Foundation
- Teryn Thomas, EdLight
- Zandra de Araujo, University of Florida’s Lastinger Center for Learning
- Richard Baraniuk, Rice University
When? March 3, 11:30 am
Where? Room 8ABC, Austin Convention Center
Building and Broadening the Education R&D Enterprise
Education R&D has traditionally left many voices unheard, often overlooking the needs of students, educators, and communities. Achieving real impact requires expanding access to funding and broadening the pipeline of professionals shaping the field. Don’t miss this session for insights into the types of strategies and policies that can elevate underrepresented perspectives, fostering more effective education innovation.
Speakers
- Ivory Toldson, Howard University
- Jinann Bitar, The Education Trust
- Marybeth Gasman, Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions
- Pamela Scott-Johnson, Spelman College
When? March 3, 4:00 pm
Where? Room 8ABC, Austin Convention Center
