From new efforts to strengthen middle-grade literacy to a rapid expansion of math policy reform, Patricia walks through where states are headed—and why foundational skills will continue to dominate legislative agendas. The conversation also explores rising interest in postsecondary return-on-investment, updated accountability and data systems, workforce-aligned pathways, digital distraction policies like phone-free schools, and what states can expect as AI tools reshape classrooms and policymaking. 

Cara and Patricia reflect on the biggest themes from the 2025 season and discuss how governors, legislators and education chiefs can prepare for a policy year defined by both urgency and opportunity. If you want to understand the landscape heading into 2026—and what it will take to drive meaningful impact for students—this episode is the perfect place to start. 

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Across three days, state leaders, practitioners and advocates dug into the big questions driving education policy right now: 

• How do we close achievement gaps in reading and math? 
• What does real college and career readiness look like? 
• How should states rethink funding, school choice, civics, and digital learning for a new generation of students? 

Cara takes you behind the scenes, weaving together clips from multiple sessions and connecting them to the practical realities facing governors, legislators and state agencies in the year ahead. 

To listen to the full 2025 ExcelinEd National Summit on Education strategy session audios as well as our keynotes from the main stage, visit our YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nj48WE9RS6E&list=PLamKh0vaiRJOqVYjpgynniKnpJ5bjJ3rh 

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Reflecting on lessons from two decades of education reform and leadership through crises, Gov. Bush shares his vision for helping every student succeed through proven, student-centered policies that close learning gaps, expand parental choice and strengthen pathways to in-demand careers. The conversation touches on key themes from this year’s Summit—from rebuilding trust in higher education and addressing digital distraction in schools to balancing innovation in artificial intelligence with safeguards that protect children and preserve great teaching. 

Gov. Bush also reflects on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and how Louisiana leaders transformed a moment of devastation into an education renaissance. His candid Q&A sets the stage for two days of action-oriented discussions, challenging policymakers to “go big and be bold” in tackling today’s toughest education challenges. 

Listeners will leave inspired to reimagine education policy, recommit to the fundamentals of reading and math and build a future where every child has the chance to thrive. 

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From financial literacy and computer science to data science, digital safety and modern math pathways, the conversation digs into the policies and practices that can ensure all students leave high school ready for an increasingly complex and technology-driven world and how these additions reflect a shift toward preparing students for real-world success.  

Liz brings insights from her nearly two decades of work in education policy, as well as her research on tutoring, learning recovery and the future of personalized learning. The takeaway is clear: math and data science are no longer optional add-ons—they are the bridge between college readiness and career readiness, equipping students with the skills they’ll need to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world. 

Together, Adriana, Lindsey and Liz ask a bold question: What does every student truly need to know before they graduate? This discussion challenges policymakers, educators and families alike to rethink high school for the next generation—and to build a system that equips students not just with knowledge, but with the skills to thrive.  

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Drawing on new research and national data, they unpack why so many middle and high school students still struggle to read classroom materials fluently—and what it really means to cross the “decoding threshold.” From the latest NAEP results to evidence-based strategies for Tier 1 instruction, the conversation highlights the urgent need to support students who haven’t yet mastered foundational reading skills. 

Kymyona and Casey discuss the role of high-quality instructional materials, targeted interventions and ongoing professional learning for teachers. They also explain how strong early literacy policies must be paired with strategies to help older students build fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. 

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how literacy development continues well beyond third grade—and how thoughtful policy can help every student become a confident, capable reader. 

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Together, they discuss how Arkansas is leading with its return-on-investment analysis of college and career programs. The conversation highlights the power of data not just to measure outcomes but to guide real action—helping policymakers, schools and communities create stronger, more effective pathways for students. 

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how data can shine a light on what works, where gaps remain and how states can better prepare students for the opportunities that await them beyond high school. 

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Superintendent Weaver shares the reasoning behind this bold step, the early impact on students and educators and the challenges and successes schools have experienced in the rollout. From improving focus and academic performance to addressing student well-being, South Carolina’s policy is sparking national conversations about the role of technology in learning. 

Listeners will gain practical insights into how schools are adapting, how families are responding and what may be next as policymakers consider making this approach permanent. The episode highlights why limiting digital distractions isn’t just a discipline issue but a key part of supporting student success and preparing schools for the future. 

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Together, they explore how states are rethinking teacher preparation as part of broader efforts to boost literacy and math outcomes. From Louisiana’s bold math teacher training requirements to Colorado’s flexible licensure pathways and Arkansas’ sweeping LEARNS Act reforms, the conversation highlights concrete examples of how smart policy can strengthen teacher pipelines, address shortages and ultimately improve student achievement. 

Listeners will walk away with practical lessons from leading states about the critical skills teachers need most, the role of data and evidence in evaluating preparation programs and strategies for recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented educator workforce. This episode offers both inspiration and practical takeaways for policymakers and advocates committed to ensuring every child has access to great teaching and a well-prepared, effective teacher. 

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Too often, states report student performance in ways that mask real challenges, leaving parents and educators with an inaccurate picture of whether students are truly on track. Christy and Chris dig into why this matters, how school accountability has evolved over the past few decades and what states can do to ensure honesty and transparency in measuring student success. 

Drawing on Chris’s experience as New Jersey’s Commissioner of Education, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools and a key leader in New York City’s Department of Education, the conversation explores the policies and practices that have moved the needle on student outcomes—and the consequences when states fail to hold schools accountable. Together, they highlight examples of states that have succeeded, unpack the role of state assessments and consider how accountability can advance meaningful change by maintaining high expectations for all students. 

Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of why strong accountability systems are not about punishment, but about creating trust, driving improvement and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.  

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Drawing on his experience as both a longtime educator and an advocate for parental choice, Jacobs explains how this policy is reshaping the relationship between families and public schools. Instead of being sidelined by choice programs, districts can now actively compete and collaborate by offering courses and services that meet family needs. 

Tune in as we explain how the Sunshine state is expanding the reach of ESAs to include district programs and reimagining the role of public education in a choice-driven marketplace. This episode promises to highlight the potential impacts on students, schools and communities by offering a glimpse into how traditional and new providers can work together to better serve every child. 

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Together, Lindsey and Dr. Dee examine the evidence behind guaranteed access/automatic enrollment policies, the critical role of early math foundations like fractions and ratios and why one-size-fits-all “Algebra for All” approaches often backfire. They also dig into high school math pathways—whether calculus, data science or quantitative reasoning—and how states can better align them to student aspirations. 

From lessons learned in states like Minnesota, Virginia and Indiana to the broader implications of detracking and math access, this conversation provides policymakers with practical insights and actionable strategies. Whether you’re a state leader, educator or advocate, this episode offers a clear takeaway: math policy isn’t just about when students take Algebra I—it’s about ensuring every student is prepared, supported and set up for long-term success. 

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Drawing from his leadership at Bluum and decades in education policy, Terry explains how this financing model works, the challenges it addresses and the measurable impact it’s already having for Idaho students. He shares real-world success stories, lessons learned from implementation and why other states should consider adopting similar solutions.  

Listeners will come away with a clear understanding of how smart policy design—paired with strong partnerships—can free up resources for what matters most: delivering high-quality education for every child. 

For reports mentioned in this episode: bluum.org/publications/  

To learn more about Bluum's amazing work in the charter space over the past decade: Home - Bluum - 10 years   

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Together, they break down the White House proposal to close the U.S. Department of Education, the potential reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and how states are navigating new waiver requests. They also dive into provisions in Congress’s sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill,” from expanding Pell Grants for short-term credentials to new higher ed accountability rules and the launch of a federal tax-credit scholarship program. 

Patricia and Lindsay share what these shifts mean for governors, legislators and state leaders—and why, despite the headlines, the real drivers of reform remain in state hands. 

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We’re highlighting leaders who are breaking down old boundaries and putting students first. 

Our goal? To inform, inspire and equip policymakers and advocates who care about student success and what’s next in education policy. 

So hit that follow button and join us this season on Policy Changes Lives. 

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Tune in for this info-packed episode as we explore what’s next for education policy and how states might tackle these new challenges in the year ahead.  

Time Stamps 

2:11 ExcelinEd National Summit on Education Keynote Recaps 

13:52 Chronic Absenteeism 

16:13 Phone-Free Schools 

18:34 School Accountability 

21:29 Early Literacy  

23:27 Math  

26:11 Private and Public School Choice 

29:04 Artificial Intelligence in Education 

31:34 Leveling Up High School/ High School Redesign 

33:51 Addressing Teacher Shortages 

36:43 Rapid-Fire Recap of our 2024 Policy Trend Predictions 

42:02 Our 2025 Policy Trend Predictions 

Links to Resources 

ExcelinEd’s 2024 National Summit on Education keynotes on our YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLamKh0vaiRJPFN4YtZvMkbQRaO-LIlRx1&si=hBNI6LXHaFDhNL9p 

Save the Date: 2025 National Summit on Education in New Orleans: https://excelined.org/national-summit/  

ExcelinEd’s website, featuring model policies and much more: www.excelined.org  

Early Literacy Matters: www.earlyliteracymatters.org 

School Choice Matters: www.schoolchoicematters.org  

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Gov. Bush discusses his experience leading transformative education reforms in Florida and shares his vision for states to recommit to foundational skills in math and literacy while also adapting to new challenges like declining enrollment, student wellbeing and social media’s impact on learning.  

Hear how state-level policymakers can tackle emerging trends and more. Gov. Bush’s candid Q&A will offer practical advice for prioritizing education policy goals amidst states’ competing opportunities and challenges.  

Tune in now to his inspiring call to "go big and be bold" to create sustainable pathways for student success.  

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They delve into the origins of these boundaries, tracing their roots back to discriminatory redlining practices and examining how they continue to limit access to quality education for countless students across the nation. Tim shares insights from his book, A Fine Line: How Most American Kids Are Kept Out of the Best Public Schools, and highlights the urgent need for reform to ensure equal educational opportunities for all. 

The conversation also touches on the No More Lines coalition's strategy for achieving open enrollment nationwide and the challenges policymakers face in making this vision a reality. Tim and Michael discuss the first steps states and districts can take to begin dismantling these boundaries and the potential impact of open enrollment on overcrowding and resource allocation. As they look ahead to the 2030 goal, they explore the milestones that will be crucial to maintaining momentum and achieving success.  

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about equal access to educational opportunity and the future of public education in America. 

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Quentin sits down with Taylor White, Director of Postsecondary Pathways for Youth at New America, to talk about youth apprenticeships and the Partnership to Advance Youth Apprenticeship (PAYA) initiative. They’ll discuss the states that are leading early adopters of these programs, the challenges they face and student successes so far.  

Tune in to learn more about youth apprenticeships and the important and growing role they’ll play as states seek to better connect the K-12 education system to postsecondary opportunities and the workforce. 

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Host Sonya Yates and Dr. Hasbrouck discuss the long-term impact of dyslexia on students and states, especially when students don't receive the necessary supports and interventions. The episode highlights how early screening, high-quality instructional materials, and evidence-based interventions can transform the educational experience for students with dyslexia, setting them on a path to success. 

They will also discuss how states and schools are responding to the latest policy trends in early literacy, the importance of understanding the research behind these approaches and how they can be implemented effectively to support students with dyslexia. Finally, the conversation will touch on the critical role that parents play in advocating for their children’s reading journeys and the best ways they can get involved. 

Tune in as these experts demystify dyslexia and the policies and practices that can help students become confident, capable readers. 

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After highlighting the critical challenges that have led to a national math crisis, Lindsey and Adam discuss the importance of implementing policies that prioritize rigorous standards, accountability and evidence-based instructional practices to ensure students are prepared for college and career success. 

Additionally, this episode will dive deeper into the emerging concept of auto-enrollment in advanced math courses, a policy designed to automatically place eligible students into higher-level math classes. This approach can help close achievement gaps by ensuring that more students, especially those from underserved communities, have access to challenging coursework that sets them up for future success.  

Tune in as we showcase which states are pioneering forward-thinking policies and explain why innovative math practices are critical to turning around math outcomes for students nationwide.  

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This week, we welcome David Mansouri, CEO and President of Tennessee SCORE, to discuss the transformative potential of student-centered education funding. 

Together, these two will share insights into Tennessee’s journey toward implementing a funding model that prioritizes higher-need students, ensuring that resources are allocated more equitably across the state. They’ll also highlight the benefits of this approach and how other states might follow suit. 

Tune in and be sure to subscribe! 

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As schools nationwide grapple with keeping classrooms staffed with qualified educators, Superintendent Truitt shares her insights on the challenges facing North Carolina’s teaching workforce and the innovative strategies she has championed to address these issues. This discussion will highlight the significant impact of policies aimed at supporting teachers, the role of alternative certification routes, team teaching and more. Catherine also reflects on her tenure and offers advice for states facing similar challenges. 

Tune in as we delve deeper into the ongoing efforts to improve teacher policies and strengthen the teacher pipeline across America. 

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It’s worth noting that Indiana has added CSAs to their comprehensive approach to supporting high-quality learner pathways. The Hoosier state is known for undertaking systemic work, such as aligning the K-12 and postsecondary education systems, working to ensure career and technical education programs are high-quality (Next Level!), and sharing outcomes data with students and families through the state’s Graduates Prepared to Succeed Dashboard.  

Our resident expert Nathan Oakley and Adriana Harrington touch base with David Buyze, who serves as the Director of Policy and Special Programs for the Indiana Department of Education and executive director of the Indiana State Board of Education, to see how things were going. Listen now, followed by an update and our team’s hot takes. 

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Robyn is a long-time education advocate and entrepreneur, who has been instrumental in advancing policies that empower families to choose the best educational paths for their children. She shares the story of how Utah’s ESA came to be and the challenges that its supporters overcame to make it a reality. Robyn and Ben also address the future of the program and the potential for other states to learn from Utah's innovative approach. 

Tune in to hear more about the impact of the ESA program, the role of parental choice in education and the broader implications for education policy across the United States. 

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Dr. Morrison’s roots are in the classroom, where she taught high school English and served as the literacy lead teacher. She has spent more than a decade with the State of Tennessee, working to develop and implement education policies that put students first.   

Listen now to that interview, followed by a crucial update on Tennessee’s early literacy progress. 

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Aldeman brings an extensive background in education policy, having worked with organizations such as the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, Bellwether Education, and the U.S. Department of Education, to provide in-depth analysis and insights on school finance, the teacher labor market and assessment and accountability policy.  

Join us as we explore how states are adopting various measures to mitigate the impacts of declining student enrollment, with some leading the way with innovative approaches. 

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​

Why should you listen?​

• You'll learn about the latest trends in K-12 education policy.​
• You'll hear from policymakers, educators and researchers who are shaping the future of education.​
• You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how education policy is made.​
• You'll be inspired to engage in the K-12 education systems and policy areas that matter to you.

Convinced? Hit subscribe and follow us to learn from leading education policy experts across the country who are transforming K-12 education with student-centered reforms.

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