SXSW EDU 2025 was an unforgettable gathering of educators, innovators, and changemakers coming together to explore the future of education. The conference, known for its dynamic and interdisciplinary approach, once again provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions and groundbreaking ideas. From the integration of AI in education to the power of arts and storytelling, this year’s event was brimming with insight, collaboration, and inspiration.
A delegation of 85 Remake Learning network members were among the thousands of educators, makers, thinkers, and doers thronging the venues of Austin, TX to meet and make the future of learning.
What stood out to us
This year’s conference covered a wide range of themes. We engaged in conversations about accessibility and inclusion, alternative credentialing, youth voice, and educational leadership.
It came as no surprise that the theme weaving its way through the entire week was “What does it mean to be human in the age of AI?”
Many sessions addressed the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in education and how it can be leveraged to foster connection rather than deepen divides.
What we brought back with us
We left SXSW EDU 2025 with a treasure trove of new ideas and tools. One particularly impactful workshop focused on accessibility, where attendees explored dyslexia-friendly fonts, alternative text for visual content, and movement-friendly spaces—all aimed at making learning more inclusive.
The session “What Makes Us Human? Preparing Young People for the Digital Age” introduced attendees to the Question Project, a program designed to help students ask and explore deep human questions. Another standout session, “The Art of Empathy: NYU x Whitney Museum Collaboration,” showcased how art can be a catalyst for developing empathy and critical thinking skills.
Sessions also highlighted outdoor education, STEM advancements, civic engagement, and the intersection of technology and real-world learning experiences. We were inspired by a growing focus on experiential learning, where AI and hands-on, nature-based experiences were seen as complementary rather than competing forces.
Our favorite moments
The conference was packed with memorable moments.
For Eddie Wilson from Woodland Hills School District, Sharing Space: From ISS to the Next Generation was eye-opening, shining a light on gender disparities in STEM fields.
Elle Sauer from the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy was deeply moved by More Than an Escape: The Outdoors as a Frontline Solution, a panel discussion on the outdoor exposure as a form of mental health, where speakers from Indigenous communities shared invaluable perspectives on interconnectedness with nature.
A major highlight for many attendees was witnessing youth-led workshops, where young leaders took center stage to share their insights and expertise. Youth-Adult Partnership for Inclusive Decision-Making, facilitated by students from the World Affairs Council, was widely praised for its depth and impact. These sessions reinforced the importance of empowering students to be active participants in shaping their own education.
Another standout experience was the Pittsburgh Delegation Happy Hour, where attendees had the chance to forge meaningful connections with fellow educators and nonprofit professionals. This informal gathering sparked new collaborations and strengthened the sense of community among those working to advance education.
What comes next
SXSW EDU 2025 left us with both inspiration and a challenge: How can we apply what we’ve learned to create tangible change in our own communities?
- Experimentation is essential: Educators were encouraged to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation. The book Tiny Experiments was widely recommended as a guide to testing new approaches in education.
- Asking the right questions matters: In an AI-driven world, fostering curiosity and inquiry-based learning is more important than ever.
- Access must remain at the forefront: Whether through AI, accessibility tools, or youth leadership, ensuring that every student has a voice and opportunity was a recurring theme.
- Education is a collective effort: The power of collaboration was evident throughout the conference, reminding attendees that systemic change happens when diverse stakeholders work together.
Back home a renewed sense of purpose, we’re as ready as ever to foster environments where all learners can thrive.