The Purpose of School: Objectives, Opportunities, and Obstacles

What is the true purpose of school in a rapidly changing world?

Join this fireside conversation moderated by Amy Loyd, CEO of All4Ed, featuring Kirsten Baesler, Assistant Secretary in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education, and Ted Dintersmith, Founder of What School Could Be, as they tackle big questions shaping the future of K12 education.

The conversation will span the expanding role of career-connected learning and who it should truly serve, the promise and uncertainty surrounding AI, and whether traditional accountability systems are keeping pace with the skills and competencies that matter most for lifelong learning, meaningful work, and civic contribution.

At a moment of profound technological and economic change, this dialogue will examine how we ensure school fulfills its highest purpose for ALL learners.