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Innovative school models are making significant strides across the American educational landscape. New micro schools, charter schools, private school models, career and technical education programs, and innovative forms of homeschooling are expanding at an accelerating pace. However, these emerging school models are at a critical crossroads. As they increasingly leverage school choice programs, there is greater pressure to demonstrate success to stakeholders. Scalability and sustainability remain core challenges, with school leaders striving to expand their models while preserving the essential attributes that define their schools.

To explore these issues, the Program on Education Policy and Governance at Harvard University is hosting its fourth annual conference on emerging school models at the Harvard Kennedy School on Thursday, September 25 and Friday, September 26, 2025.

Call for Proposals

Submit a proposal for the conference on “Emerging School Models: Scaling for success” hosted at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Cambridge, Massachusetts on September 25-26, 2025.

Submission Deadline: April 14, 2025

Email Submissions to: pepg_administrator@hks.harvard.edu

Conference Location: Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Cambridge, MA

Conference Dates: September 25-26, 2025

Conference organizers are seeking proposals that focus on research, policy and practice, or a combination of these areas. Submissions highlighting innovative school models from both the private and public sectors are encouraged, as well as proposals showcasing new technologies, support systems, and programs designed for emerging school models. Presenters of accepted proposals will receive a one-night stay at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge and will be given priority seating for the keynote dinner on the opening night of the conference.

Submission Materials

Individual Presentations:

• Proposal Titles
• Name and Affiliation of Presenter
• Brief Proposal Description (200-300 words in length)

Panel Proposals:

• Panel Title (and title of individual presentations)
• Brief Panel Proposal Description (200-300 words in length)
• Names and Affiliations of Three Panelists and One Panel Chair

Successful proposal submissions should include a clear overview of the primary question or issue that panelists will address during their session. Submissions should also emphasize the broader significance of the topic and its relevance to conference attendees (e.g., school leaders, researchers, and policymakers). Proposals must be organized for a one-hour session with 25 minutes reserved for audience Q&A.