On September 4, 2025, the Remake Learning Council gathered at the Frick Environmental Center for its fall meeting. It felt fitting to meet there. Earlier this year, two “pulse checks” explored emerging topics shaping education: artificial intelligence and outdoor learning. The outdoor learning group imagined a future where learning flows easily between classrooms and the natural world—students reading novels under the trees, studying ecosystems firsthand, or simply taking time to learn outdoors. They surfaced opportunities for new school–community partnerships around the implementation of Pennsylvania’s new science standards, and learning experiences that spark creativity and care.
That vision brought us to the Frick Environmental Center, a place designed to connect people to nature and to each other. Despite the looming rain clouds, council members embraced the outdoors, choosing from three experiences: a walk along the park’s sensory trail, a visit to the From Slavery to Freedom Garden, or a forest bathing activity.
I joined the sensory trail walk. As a former special education teacher, I was struck by the way universal design shaped the experience—from the accessible pathways to quiet spaces for reflection. One installation even raised the forest floor to different heights, so the simple act of discovering acorns or exploring leaves was within reach for everyone. It was a vivid reminder that learning spaces become truly powerful when they invite everyone in.
Back indoors, six council members shared five-minute reflections on the new school year: what drives their work, what concerns them, and what gives them hope.
- Caroline John (Northgate School District)
- Kendra Ross (Duolingo)
- Andrew Medlar (Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh)
- Jenny Lent (IU1)
- Cara Ciminillo (Trying Together)
- Michel Conklin (Bots IQ)
Their insights revealed a network in motion:
- In many high-performing countries, teaching is deeply respected—even if not highly paid.
- AI holds immense promise but could deepen inequities if not approached carefully.
- The word “and” changes everything. Schools and families and industries working together create more than the sum of their parts.
- Early childhood education is gaining new energy, with investments from companies like Duolingo and the new Pittsburgh airport, which now includes a dedicated early childhood learning space.
- In rural areas, where access to innovative learning experiences can be limited by geography, mobile career labs are bringing hands-on opportunities directly to students.
A clear theme emerged across all presentations: partnerships are the engine of our learning ecosystem. When organizations and individuals work across sectors, when ideas flow between classrooms and communities, new possibilities open up for every learner.
The Council will meet one final time in December. Until then, we carry forward the energy, questions, and connections sparked at our fall meeting.
About the Remake Learning Council
Composed of leaders from across education, industry, philanthropy, and community organizations, the Remake Learning Council represents the region’s thought leaders on learning innovation. Together, members guide the vision and strategy of Remake Learning as they explore emerging trends, share what’s working, and imagine what’s next for learning.
