Reasons to Believe: Reclaiming Optimism in Public Education | SXSW EDU 2026

Speakers: Frances Messano & Aneesh Sohoni. At a time when belief in public education is eroding, this conversation explores why optimism is both justified and essential. Discover what’s working across classrooms and communities—from evidence-based instruction to AI-enhanced tools and reimagined teaching roles. Leave with actionable insights, renewed hope, and a deeper understanding of the bold ideas fueling student learning and shaping the future of public education. About SXSW EDU: The SXSW EDU Conference & Festival cultivates and empowers a community of engaged stakeholders to advance teaching and learning. SXSW EDU is a component of the South by Southwest® (SXSW®) family of conferences and festivals. Internationally recognized as the convergence gathering for creative professionals, SXSW EDU extends SXSW’s support for the art of engagement to include society’s true rock stars: educators! Connect with SXSW EDU online at: Visit the SXSW EDU website: http://sxswedu.com/ Follow SXSW EDU on Twitter:   / sxswedu   Like SXSW EDU on Facebook:   / sxswedu   SUBSCRIBE:    / subscription_c.  . MORE VIDEOS:    / sxswedu