MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 8:30 AM

Public education stands as America's most profound investment in its future, shaping our societal values and aspirations. Two decades into the 21st Century, a new vision for public education is needed to ensure every young person develops the knowledge, skills, and character that enable their thriving and our success as a society in a time of disruptive change. This vision must: 

• Enable students to develop a healthy sense of self, supporting them to understand who they are and how to make the most of their talents and passions
• Prepare students to engage effectively in American democracy and civic life
• Equip students to thrive in the world of work

Amidst a crisis of belonging and opportunity, we are increasingly faced with the reality of the implications for young people and their livelihoods – nearly 40% of US high school students feel disconnected from their school community, a reality that exacerbates challenges in mental health and academic success. Our approach advocates for actionable strategies to enhance student belonging, creating the conditions that will allow them to thrive in school and beyond. 

This pivotal moment for educational leadership demands bold actions to transform schools into communities where every student feels valued and engaged. Join us in this keynote as we explore practical, evidence-based recommendations to combat the belonging crisis and lay the groundwork for an inclusive, resilient public education system that aligns with America's values and future aspirations. 

Brittany Mauney is the Director of People and Strategy at the Aspen Institute’s Education & Society Program. Prior to joining Aspen, Brittany was the Chief of Staff at Gradient Learning, led the Educator Data and Analytics team at the Delaware Department of Education, and managed the Teacher Recruitment team at DC Public Schools. She began her career as a high school math teacher in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Brittany is a proud Golden Gopher, having earned her BS in Business from the University of Minnesota. She also holds an EdM in Education Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and an EdM in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston University. She lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband, daughter, and golden retriever.