Announcing the Launch of Our Fall Cohort for the New School Models Design Lab!

Are you passionate about creating a new kind of learning environment? One that fosters self-directed, character-driven, learner-led education? If so, we’re excited to invite you to join our Fall Cohort for the New School Models Design Lab, starting this October!

Why Join the New School Models Design Lab?

The Design Lab, initially developed at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, is a 27-session, in-depth course empowering educators and leaders to build innovative, student-centered school models from the ground up. You’ll receive guidance from leading experts, collaborate with like-minded innovators, and by the end, you’ll walk away with a Blueprint for a New School Model, ready to be put into action.

Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or someone invested in transforming how learning happens, this cohort will offer you the tools, resources, and mentorship to turn your vision into reality. Plus, you’ll have the chance to attend three exclusive, virtual check-in sessions to gain feedback and refine your designs.

Key Dates for Fall Cohort Sessions:

• October 2nd

• November 6th

• December 4th

Each session brings a deep dive into future trends in K-12 schooling, innovative design processes, and elements necessary to create a learning environment that promotes independence and self-direction.

Meet Our Fall Cohort Leaders

We are thrilled to introduce 8 trailblazing leaders from across the globe who will be shaping their school models in this fall’s cohort. These educators and innovators will be building new blueprints for the future of learning, all centered on self-direction and character development. Here’s a sneak peek at each of them:

Ben began his career as a Teach for America educator and has spent the past decade in the education sector, working as a teacher-coach, administrator, program officer, and entrepreneur. With a BS from Grove City College and an MBA from The Ohio State University, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership experience to his work. He currently lives in Northeast Ohio with his wife and daughters, where he continues to influence the next generation of learners through innovative school design.

As Vice President of Field Operations at NPower, Johnathan oversees programs and fundraising across emerging U.S. markets. Previously, he led NPower Texas, where he helped over 750 veterans and underserved young adults launch tech careers. A former Army Military Intelligence Officer and combat veteran, Johnathan is passionate about inspiring others, which led him to write Caterpillars Don’t Fly, a book on unlocking potential. He holds an MBA from Webster University and lives in Fort Worth, Texas, with his wife and three children.

Dr. Keon Nicholas-Aaron Berry, from Windsor, CT, is a renowned educator and visionary, serving as a sociology professor at Morehouse College and a certified film consultant for Netflix, Disney, and HBO STARZ in Atlanta’s film industry. A Forbes Under 30 scholar alum and recognized among the "100 Men of Color," Dr. Berry is celebrated for his leadership in education and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging). With a remarkable academic journey, including an Ivy-league dissertation defense in just one year and nine months, he continues to empower families and youth through his impactful work.

Sasha Zatyrka is the visionary founder of Ahsas School (ahsas-school.org), set to open in Fall 2025 for grades 6-8, with plans to expand to grades 6-12 by 2029. Ahsas School will offer a competency-based curriculum integrated with mental wellness skill building, aiming to foster balance and connection in both learning and life. Inspired by her twin daughters' Montessori experience and her seven years leading outdoor classes in the Tinkergarten curriculum, Sasha is passionate about extending these child-centered learning principles into middle and high school education. A Licensed Social Worker, Sasha brings deep expertise in child development and adolescent education, informed by her extensive work with youth in foster care, Zambia, and HIV-affected communities.