The Future of Public Education: One District’s Journey to Transform Schools and Systems

In January 2026, this new book will be released highlighting both the need for transformation in public education as well as a practical guide for moving forward. Two of the three authors, Michael Fullan and Superintendent Michael Matsuda, will chronicle the journey of this one school district, sharing stories as well as hard evidence. We will hear about a district’s journey moving beyond standardized testing to creating a system that truly serves its students and community. Their goal: to have all students leave the district with the academic and social emotional skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Join panelists Michael Fullan (Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto; Toronto, Canada), Michael Matsuda (Superintendent, Anaheim Union High School District; California, USA) and our facilitator Dominic Regester (Director, Center for Education Transformation, Salzburg Global; Salzburg, Austria) for this compelling discussion. Registrants are welcome to engage with these leaders through the chat.

1. How has public education changed over the last decade? Why is there a need to redefine public education?

2. What was the impetus for this district to engage in the transformation process? What are some of the key steps in the process?

3. What were some of the biggest challenges as well as the greatest successes? Tell us about impact.

4. What advice do you have for school, district, and Ministry/Department leaders who are looking to engage in systemic change?