A4LE + EDmarket are pleased to announce the 2026 NexGen Rising Stars — a dynamic group of emerging leaders who are transforming the education industry. Each year, they recognize professionals 40 and under whose innovation, leadership, and dedication to student success are shaping the future of learning. This year’s honorees represent the very best of what’s next in education. Thank you to Smith System for the generous sponsorship of the NexGen program.
Why They Were Chosen
The NexGen Rising Stars stand out for their bold ideas, collaborative spirit, and measurable impact on student achievement. From reimagining learning spaces to driving district-wide initiatives, these professionals are breaking new ground and inspiring positive change across the education market. They are not only advancing their organizations but also shaping a stronger future for schools, students, and communities.
Honored at EDspaces & LearningSCAPES
The 2026 Rising Stars will be celebrated at the Plenary Session during EDspaces 2026 (October 28-30 in Kansas City) and during LearningSCAPES (November 4-7 in Seattle). They will also be spotlighted across EDmarket’s digital platforms, amplifying their voices and ideas to the broader education community.
“Transformative leadership begins with the courage to imagine what could be — and the commitment to turn bold ideas into meaningful opportunities that change the trajectory of students, educators, and communities. Our NexGen award winners are rising stars committed to this important work! We are proud of this year’s class who have raised the bar for excellence in their work.”
— Dr. Deb Kerr, Former Superintendent St. Francis School District| EDmarket Board Chair
Thank You Judges
Thank you to our distinguished panels of judges: Dr. Deb Kerr, former superintendent of St. Francis School District; Jenn McArt, Director of Marketing & Events, ClearTouch; Robin Randall, Principal|Director of Learning, Legat Architects; Dr. Kim Robertson, Executive Director of Choice Schools & Programs, Guilford County Schools; and Drew Wodarski, Learning Environment Specialist, MiEN Company.
Congratulations to the 2026 Rising Stars!
Please join us in celebrating these outstanding professionals whose achievements and vision are lighting the way forward. (Click on their image to learn more about each winner.)
Thank you to our distinguished panel of judges for helping make this program possible. To learn more about the impressive list of NexGen Rising Stars, visit: https://www.edmarket.org/nexgen/
Nominations for the 2027 NexGen Rising Star program will open in Spring 2027.