2026 Keynote Speaker - Baratunde Thurston
Emmy-nominated Storyteller, Producer, and Thought Leader, Los Angeles, CA
Baratunde Thurston is an Emmy-nominated storyteller, producer, and thought leader weaving stories of interdependence across our relationships with nature, humans, and technology. As the host of PBS's America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston and the creator of the acclaimed How To Citizen podcast, Baratunde has redefined citizenship as a practice of active participation, responsibility, and community building. His newest podcast, Life with Machines, produced in partnership with Lenovo, explores the human side of the AI revolution by asking, "How can these machines help us become more human?"
Sponsored Ad
BOOST YOUR LEARNING!
Gather with over 3,500 Pre-K, Elementary, Middle, High School, and Higher Education global educators in sunny Palm Springs to learn, grow, and connect. Be a part of the BOOST Community- the largest, most recognized, and comprehensive convening for after school, expanded learning, in classroom, and out-of-school time professionals.
We invite you and your team to experience the most uplifting blend of:
- Networking, retreat, and team-building opportunities to strengthen and celebrate your team
- More than 200 exceptional workshops to help you learn and develop your leadership
- The latest trends and research-based strategies and practices in innovation and high-quality programming
- In-depth learning sessions through our 1-day Pre-Conference Academies
- Opportunities for focused and learning through Inspiration Station, Camp Inspire, and Exhibitor Showcase Workshops
- Master Classes taught by world-class experts in a discipline
- BOOST Nation: Town Hall meetings- presenting national leaders and public figures to discuss topics of interest, share information, and build relationships
- An Exhibit Hall with over 190 exhibit booths showcasing 170+ organizations, spotlighting the latest products and services
- BOOST Film Festival featuring films highlighting relevant topics in the education field
- BOOST Live Podcast Lounge – interviews with thought leaders, Q&A sessions, and expert panels in front of a live audience
- Meet the Authors events featuring notable authors and book signings
- Field Trips- off-site learning excursions throughout the Coachella Valley
- Option to earn transferable college credits
- Elective participation to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- Opportunities to experience distinguished guest speakers, special events, and entertainment that will inspire you to create change
- Healthy meals and plenty of sunshine in beautiful Palm Springs, California
Download 50 REASONS TO ATTEND BOOST by clicking HERE or the image above!
BOOST Cafe
Looking for a way to keep in contact with BOOSTers the other 51 weeks of the year? Visit our FREE out-of-school time community: BOOST Cafe! The site features an interactive forum to share promising practices, up-to-date funding opportunities, a comprehensive list of tools and resources for your programs, weekly blogs from field professionals, and MORE! Click here to visit!
Please note: Name badges are required to attend all BOOST Conference events, including all meals and all workshops.
Donate to BOOST to help create change
By donating to BOOST Collaborative you are supporting our mission to provide quality professional development to global educators, building community, and cultivating experiences for change. You are supporting our purpose - thank you for your support.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |