Last week, leaders, educators, and advocates from across the country gathered in New Orleans for the 2026 National Charter Schools Conference. As this year’s host city, New Orleans had an important story to tell—one rooted in the commitment of our students, families, educators, school leaders, and community partners. We were proud to see that story reflected throughout the conference and to welcome visitors into conversations about the beliefs, policies, and collaboration that have made our city’s progress possible.

Throughout the conference, NSNO CEO Dana Peterson helped lead discussions about the outcomes schools should ultimately deliver for young people—from success beyond high school to meaningful career pathways and long-term economic opportunity.

Dana addressed the conference’s Thursday Main Stage, participated in a session examining the early-life outcomes of charter school graduates, and moderated a panel on strengthening connections among schools, workforce partners, and quality jobs. He also joined NOLA Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Fateama Fulmore, Jerel Bryant, CEO of Collegiate Academies, and Tanya Bryant, CEO of ReNEW Schools, for a discussion about the beliefs, policies, and collaboration that have helped accelerate student outcomes in New Orleans.

NSNO was also honored to showcase our Katrina 20: After the Storm exhibit, reflecting on the transformation of New Orleans public education over the past two decades. We were proud to share this history with visitors from across the country and highlight the people, milestones, and lessons that continue to shape our city’s schools.

We are grateful to the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools for bringing the 2026 National Charter Schools Conference to New Orleans and creating an opportunity for leaders from across the country to learn from one another. We also thank our partners at alignED New Orleans, the Greater New Orleans Foundation, and DFER Louisiana for helping kick off the conference with a welcome that reflected the spirit of New Orleans.

Across every session and conversation, one message remained clear: lasting progress depends on strong schools, talented educators, thoughtful policy, and sustained collaboration. We were grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside colleagues from across the country, share New Orleans’ experience, and celebrate the students, educators, and school communities whose work continues to demonstrate what’s possible.