SPEAKERS
OPENING KEYNOTE
Monday | February 24th
Education stands at a crossroads—society’s needs for education today challenges us in ways we could not have imagined. In this keynote, Scott Frauenheim will challenge us to ignite the joy of learning, embrace co-design with students and educators, and prepare for a future shaped by AI and rapid technological shifts. From personalized learning to emerging trends, this session will explore how we can balance accountability with creativity and build schools that truly inspire. Get ready for an energizing conversation filled with big ideas, practical insights, and a call to action to transform education for generations to come!
Sparking Curiosity and Igniting Joy: Reimagining Education for the Future
Scott Frauenheim
Chief Executive Officer | LEAP Innovations
In his role as President & Chief Executive Officer of LEAP Innovations, Scott Frauenheim continues to champion the cause of transformative educational experiences. Building on his extensive experience and success at Distinctive Schools, Scott brings an unparalleled level of dedication to educational excellence and innovation to LEAP Innovations. His transformational leadership vision for LEAP Innovations underscores his exceptional ability to lead, innovate, and inspire across multiple facets of the educational landscape. Scott’s intentional focus on relationships and designing alongside stakeholders drives his strong belief in the importance of culture and engagement.
Scott's leadership at LEAP Innovations is marked by a strategic focus on creating positive, engaging, rigorous learning environments that reflect his commitment to equity, innovation, and excellence. His efforts are pivotal in cultivating a thriving learning environment, through collaboration with partners, educational technology solution providers, researchers, and funders. Scott’s experiences and success as a CEO, School Principal and innovative network leader further emphasizes his dedication to advancing the frontiers of education on multiple levels. Through his pioneering work, Scott Frauenheim continues to shape the future of personalized learning and educational innovation on a national level, setting new standards for excellence and inclusivity in education.
CONVERGENCE HOUR
Tuesday | February 25th
AI & the Curious Mind: Unlocking New Possibilities for Learning
Ever since the release of generative AI tools, the speed of innovation has continued at a quick pace. From using AI to generate text to now multi-modal properties like voice, image and videos, the potential use cases in education are exciting. But, there are also concerns about academic integrity, bias, cost, and more. Bring your curiosity (and a device!) to this keynote as we discuss these topics, hone your usage of AI tools, and gain insights to prepare your students for a future with AI.
Steven Butschi | Director of Education, North America
Steven is the Director of the North American Google Education Go-to-market and Partnerships team, which works with school districts, universities, and colleges to leverage Google’s Workspace and Chromebook products to personalize learning. After working in IT consulting and volunteering as an adult English Language Learner (ELL) teacher, Steven combined his interests in education and technology by joining the Google Education team in 2009. During his 15 years at Google, he has helped universities migrate to Google Workspace for Education; worked on the founding team to bring Chromebooks to the education market, which have become the #1 device in K-12 education in the U.S.; and launched Google’s efforts to bring Google Cloud Platform to researchers, universities and EdTech companies. Steven holds a BA from Brown University in International Relations and French, and an Honorary Doctorate in Education from Bethany College.
Steven Butschi
MLC25 AWARDS GALA
Tuesday | February 25th
We See You: Celebrating the Joy of Teaching
A heartfelt keynote celebrating the profound impact of educators. Too often, the tireless efforts of teachers go unnoticed, but tonight, we shine a light on the passion, dedication, and joy they bring to their students and school communities. This keynote explores how joy is not just a byproduct of great teaching but is the heartbeat of learning, the spark that fuels curiosity, and the foundation of thriving schools. Through powerful stories and reflections, we will honor the unseen moments that shape lives and remind every educator that their work, their joy, and their presence truly matter.
Charles Williams
Founder | CW Consulting: Educational Services
Charles Williams is an accomplished educator, speaker, and consultant dedicated to creating transformative educational experiences. As a school leader in Chicago and founder of CW Consulting: Educational Services, Charles draws on nearly two decades of experience to help schools, educators, and leaders navigate complex challenges in education. He specializes in fostering culturally responsive environments, building meaningful relationships, and addressing equity and mental health in schools. A first-generation college graduate and lifelong learner, Charles is passionate about breaking barriers and inspiring others to achieve their potential. He is the host of The Counter Narrative Podcast, a platform amplifying diverse voices and tackling issues that matter in education. Known for his dynamic keynotes and interactive workshops, Charles leverages his expertise to empower educators and leaders to "Learn, Grow, Lead." His work has impacted countless lives, promoting innovation, inclusion, and resilience across the educational landscape