The Work In Motion
And What Comes Next
Back by Popular Demand…
…but new and improved, is last week’s jolly take on the traditional Christmas masterpiece. With a week full of fear and not enough cheer (there I go again!), it’s hard for many to see how all the education stuff can really make a difference. It’s up to us to set the record straight.
So why do we do what we do? Read below. This is a small look at what happens when dedicated and committed people come together around a shared belief: that education, done right, is still the most powerful force for good in a free society. What follows isn’t a recap of a Summit you may already have heard about — it’s a reminder of why this work matters now, what it asks of us, and what becomes possible when we refuse to settle for less than our children deserve.
’Twas The Summit Before Christmas…
’Twas the Summit before Christmas, and all through the dwelling,
Attendees were riveted, the presenters compelling.
The air was alive with anticipation and care,
Knowing that soon the Yass Prize was there.
But first came the program, to engage and enthrall;
On workforce and content, education rules and all.
From AI to civics, from health to the states,
Serious ideas. Urgent debates.
There were leaders and builders, reformers and friends,
Old hands and new voices, all pushing the bends.
The Mikes from the coasts, the women in EdTech,
It’s hard to imagine a more brilliant deck.
Then came the surprises — not one, but a stream,
Not one prize, not two, but four — plus eighteen.
For Mimosa and Emily, Jeff and Tiffany, too,
For Mercedes and others with bold work to do!
Microschools and classics, therapeutic care,
Models built on trust, not bureaucratic air.
To reach thousands more children who need something better,
With Janine and Jeff Yass backing courage with treasure.
Now weeks later still, the momentum remains,
These innovators press on through challenge and strain.
Their work, just a moment in time since that night,
Is more urgent than ever — and growing in might.
For with tragedy stirring and unrest unfurled,
It is children’s young minds that will shape our world.
We must free them from screens for communication,
And restore human learning, attention, and one nation.
That lives under God and follows His Way
To use our talents to learn, love, and pray,
As Santa brings cheer and the rooftops all clatter,
It’s the homes beneath them — our children — that matter.
Let’s loosen the grip of the devices and noise,
And give kids the chance to become grounded girls and boys.
Focused on learning, determined and kind,
Ready to build with both heart and mind.
To those on the frontlines, we shout loud and clear:
Keep going. Keep pushing. Your work matters here.
Let Christmas unite the heart and mind,
While we take precious time to unwind.
Let’s prepare a New Year of what’s worthy and true —
And a future rebuilt by the best we can do.
Hats Off To You..
Those that show up every day, act, and keep charging ahead. You inspire us every day.
Wishing you the best of Holidays. - Jeanne