A Collective Call to Action

For nearly two decades, I’ve watched as our education system clings to outdated metrics, prioritizing grades over the vibrant potential of every student. As an EdTech CEO, I’ve learned that community engagement is always the top measurement of success. However, engagement only tells part of the story. What truly matters is understanding what moved a learner, what they’ve taken from the experience, and, most importantly, how this experience has shaped the person they are becoming.

Last winter, I set out to solve this—and quickly realized I wasn’t alone. Conversations with curious global changemakers opened my eyes to a shared desire for fresh solutions to longstanding challenges, especially after the past few years of uncertainty within the industry. These innovators see education as the catalyst for transformative impact. What if we dared to reimagine education? What if success was measured by creativity, curiosity, and the tangible contributions students make in their communities?

Enter the Thinkering Collective

After months of intense brainstorming, my wife’s quick insight brought clarity to what this organization would represent:

Thinkering.

This blend of thinking and tinkering encapsulates our mission—a call to action for those eager to prioritize learning. At the heart of the Thinkering Collective is a movement that brings together educators, students, families, researchers, and organizations to humanize education. Our approach emphasizes authentic engagement by empowering communities to create learning experiences grounded in values, innovation, and enrichment. Together, we aim to shift the focus from narrow definitions of success to one that celebrates creativity, curiosity, and impactful, community-driven outcomes.

I have to give a special shoutout to Jim McGuire who has been integral to this journey. His extensive experience in the non-profit sector and his fresh perspective have been invaluable. Jim has not only shaped our mission but continues to lead as an organizational pillar, steering us toward transformative outcomes.

It’s now time to call for collaboration.

To those shaping the future of education—whether you’re an educator igniting creativity, a parent fostering curiosity, a student striving to make a difference, or a researcher offering valuable insights—your contribution is vital.

Today, the Thinkering Collective is supported by over 30 partner organizations and counting (you’ll meet them very soon!), each bringing a unique perspective, subject area expertise, and community to the table. Together, we form a rich, dynamic network that amplifies diverse voices and empowers all members to create meaningful, lasting impact in education.

What’s Next?

Our inaugural Thinkering Fellowship will bring together visionary educators worldwide to co-create projects that inspire and innovate students within their communities.

Through Thinkering Media, we’ll amplify these efforts, translating cutting-edge research into tools and stories that engage diverse audiences. Monthly, we’ll spotlight student projects that demonstrate the transformative power of education, showcasing their tangible contributions to their communities.

The future of education is built collectively.

Together, we will cultivate classrooms where innovation thrives, communities where learning uplifts, and a world where every learner’s potential is celebrated.