We are excited to complete the inaugural Western Hybrid and Microschools Forum held in San Diego on March 2, 2024. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with innovative educators in the charter, hybrid, and microschool movement. The vibrant discussions and insightful sessions truly showcased the exciting potential of these educational models. We enjoyed coming out west for this event and look forward to many more gatherings in the future. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this forum a memorable and impactful experience! Below, you’ll find the agenda and photos from this event.

View the 2024 Photo Gallery

Western Hybrid and Microschools Forum 2024 logo

Agenda

Saturday, March 2, 2024

Time
9:00 am -9:30 am

Welcome and Introduction

  • Eric Wearne, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ State University
  • Jennifer Cauzza, Julian Charter School
9:30 am -10:30 am

Panel 1: Education Entrepreneurs

  • Oscar & Lizette Valles, Compass Educators/Ellemercito Academy
  • Kaity Broadbent, Prenda Learning
  • Mary Cox, CORE Butte Charter School
  • Moderator: Kerry McDonald, Foundation for Economic Education
10:30 am -10:45 am Break
10:45 am - 11:45 am

Panel 2: Policy & Practice

  • Lynn Swanson, yes. every kid. foundation.
  • Jon England, Libertas
  • Jamie Buckland, West Virginia Families United for Education
  • Moderator: Lisa Snell, Stand Together Trust
11:45 am -1 2:45 pm Lunch  & Keynote Speaker
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm

Panel 3: Research & Outcomes

  • Kerry McDonald, Foundation for Economic Education
  • Don Soifer, National Microschooling Center
  • Kathleen Hermsmeyer, Springs Charter Schools
  • John Thompson, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ State University
  • Moderator: Eric Wearne, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ State University
1:45 pm - 2:00 pm

Closing Remarks

  • Eric Wearne, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ State University

2024 Photo Gallery