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Emily Liebtag
CEO of Boundless
Professional Background
Emily Liebtag is a distinguished educator and visionary leader who has dedicated her career to transforming education. With extensive experience spanning various capacities, she currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Boundless, where she spearheads initiatives aimed at redefining educational systems to better serve learners and communities. Her journey in education began as a teacher at Durham Public Schools, where she cultivated foundational teaching skills that would propel her career.
In her previous roles, Emily has made significant contributions to educational advocacy as the Vice President of Advocacy at Getting Smart, where she developed strategies to enhance educational opportunities for all students. With a passion for innovation, she has also acted as a consultant for Powermylearning, guiding organizations in integrating technology into learning environments. Her role as Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Vif International Education further solidified her commitment to improving educational practices on a global scale.
A prolific writer, Emily has authored a book published by Corwin Press, sharing her insights and experiences in the field of education, further establishing her as an expert in educational reform and instructional methods. Her blend of practical experience and scholarly expertise positions her as a noteworthy figure in educational leadership.
Education and Achievements
Emily Liebtag's educational background is as impressive as her career. She began her academic journey at Brookfield High School and later attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching, specializing in Elementary Education. Understanding the impact of effective education, she pursued further studies, obtaining a Teaching, Elementary Education degree at Boston University.
Her commitment to education did not stop there. Emily returned to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she achieved both her Master of Science and Master of Education in Education. These advanced degrees equipped her with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the intricate challenges faced in education today. In pursuit of excellence, Emily completed her Doctor of Education in Teaching and Education at the University of Virginia, culminating in a diverse and rich educational background that supports her initiatives in the field.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Emily has amassed a series of significant achievements that underscore her dedication to enhancing education. In her role at Boundless, she has led transformative projects that have impacted educators and students alike, furthering the mission of making education accessible and effective for everyone. Her contributions to education extend to policy advocacy, where her work at Getting Smart influenced discussions surrounding educational reform.
As an author, Emily's book serves as a vital resource for educators seeking innovative strategies, reinforcing her position as a thought leader in her field. Her ability to connect with learners and educators, combined with her administrative skills, allows her to navigate the complexities of educational systems and drive meaningful change. Moreover, her experiences as an instructor and research assistant at both the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Virginia have enabled her to shape the next generation of educators, fostering a culture of inquiry and professional growth.
With a comprehensive understanding of educational dynamics, Emily Liebtag continues to inspire others in her field through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to delivering impactful education.
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Highlights
Team Education Reimagined and over forty educators spent this past week learning together in San Diego. No big speeches or panels, just time to dig into the work together. We connected over our shared commitments to learner-centered education, unpacked the challenges we are each facing, created and collaborated on films, and came together over good food (of course) and conversation.
It is clear, that from micro-schools, to traditional high schools, to youth development programs — learner-centered is alive in diverse communities across the country, but needs nourishing and sustained support. Thankful for everyone in this group and what they are nurturing in their communities.
I think of this moment and this photo often -- three young people, in the middle of the day, just walking across the street. It's beautiful and for reasons more than one. While this might seem insignificant to some, it felt so striking to me that I stopped to capture this picture in the streets of Geneva.
You see, at the time, I couldn't imagine this photo being taken during a typical U.S. school day. I was used to schools where everything, even down to the minute in some places, was regulated and planned. The thought of "allowing" young people to be out in their own communities during the school day and to do so without supervision was unheard of... not even a possibility on the table.
These young people might've been going to get lunch, headed to an internship, going to chill in a park -- I don't know. The point is they were not being restricted, watched, or overly monitored. They were trusted. They were getting out of the four walls of the school building and being a part of the city around them. And guess what? They were likely doing something meaningful, even if that was just connecting with one another.
The good news is that more and more I’m seeing schools and environments embracing this kind of flexibility and openness. I'm seeing ecosystems emerging in communities across the country that are providing opportunities to connect and support young people. Movement and progress are afoot!
How do we create more of this for young people in U.S. education?
