The ExcelinEd National Summit on Education convenes the nation’s leaders in education policy to share what works, what doesn’t and what’s next in education policy. The 2025 event hosted more than 1,400 legislators, state superintendents, policymakers and advocates in New Orleans, Louisiana. Featured speakers included former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Emily Oster, Angela Duckworth and Admiral William McRaven (U.S. Navy, Retired).
ExcelinEd is a national nonprofit transforming K-12 education to ensure success for every child with student-centered, state-based policy solutions. The organization collaborates with partners and education leaders to research, develop and implement policies that prioritize early literacy, empower families with education choice, expand innovation, strengthen school performance and prepare students to transition from education to the workforce.
Governor Jeb Bush, ExcelinEd Chairman and 43rd Governor of Florida, shares his vision for transforming education with proven policies that close learning gaps, expand opportunity, build pathways to in-demand jobs and more. He highlights the proven policies helping students and delves into emerging challenges facing education leaders nationwide—plus the innovative solutions state policymakers are using to reimagine learning and reshape education. This opening session promises to inspire ideas and ignite action to change policy and change lives. Moderated by Hanna Skandera, President and CEO of the Daniels Fund.
Emily Oster, founder and CEO of ParentData.org, shares research-backed insights on what supports healthy childhood development and the vital role state leaders and policymakers hold in shaping it. She explores four critical challenges: encouraging resilience without overparenting; balancing access to treatment while avoiding overmedication; closing education gaps for boys without disadvantaging girls; and the impact of smartphones on childhood. Supported by data and focused on solutions, Oster equips leaders with strategies to support healthier development, stronger learning and brighter futures for every student. Moderated by Eric Cantor, ExcelinEd Board Member.
As more states adopt policies to encourage distraction-free learning, renowned psychologist Angela Duckworth presents her latest research on what teachers are actually seeing in phone-free classrooms. Don’t miss this chance for a close-up look at what the data reveal about the policies’ impact. Duckworth’s evidence and insights will inspire every leader in education to put student achievement first—by creating classrooms where every child can be fully present, connect meaningfully with teachers and peers and engage deeply in the task of learning. Moderated by Superintendent Ellen Weaver, South Carolina Department of Education.
Retired U.S. Navy admiral William McRaven brings his deep expertise in leadership and time-tested solutions to the 2025 Summit main stage. Drawing from his latest book, Conquering Crisis: Ten Lessons to Learn Before You Need Them, Admiral McRaven spells out the practical tools and high-impact strategies all leaders need to navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful change. His dynamic, uplifting approach will inspire every Summit attendee to return home ready to lead, transform education and achieve results. Moderated by Governor Jeb Bush, ExcelinEd Chairman.
If you’d like to listen to audio from the 2025 strategy sessions, you can find them on our #EIE25 YouTube playlist.