Purpose: To unite changemakers committed to transforming elementary computer science education, empowering every student to see themselves as builders of the future.
The BootUp Summit is a by-invitation-only gathering of visionary leaders shaping the future of computer science and artificial intelligence in elementary education. Hosted in collaboration with national partners and sponsors, this landmark event will convene state and district decision-makers, classroom educators, technology innovators, policymakers, and researchers to chart a bold, equitable path forward for elementary CS and AI education.
October 5 | Welcome
Opening Reception and Sponsor Expo at The Study at the University of Chicago.
October 6 | Building Hope, Shared Purpose, & Systemic Understanding
A full day at the Home Court of the Obama Presidential Center focused on developing a shared vision, examining systems-level challenges, and strengthening coalitions across sectors. The day concludes with a special Teacher Leader Recognition Reception in the Center’s Museum building.
October 7 | From Possibility to Practice
A half-day at The Study at the University of Chicago dedicated to hands-on, workshop-style sessions where participants will transform insights into practical strategies for advancing CS and AI education in schools and communities nationwide.
Attendance is limited to invited participants to ensure meaningful dialogue, deep collaboration, and actionable outcomes for the field. For questions or invitation requests, please contact BootUpSummit@bootuppd.org.
The 2026 BootUp Summit kicks off with a welcome reception at The Study at the University of Chicago.
Agenda
| 3:00 PM | Registration opens | Lobby |
| 6:00 PM | Welcome Reception and Exhibitor Showcase | Winter Garden |
A full day at the Obama Presidential Center focused on developing a shared vision, examining systems-level challenges, and strengthening coalitions across sectors. The day concludes with a special Teacher Leader Recognition Reception to celebrate educators transforming classrooms in Chicago Public Schools.
Agenda
| 8:00 AM | Networking and Breakfast | The Home Court |
| 9:00 AM | Welcome: Why this Moment Matters Lien Diaz, CEO, BootUp PD | |
| 9:20 AM | Opening Keynote Brenda Darden Wilkerson, President and CEO, AnitaB.org | |
| 10:30 AM | Panel Discussion: What should elementary students actually be learning in the age of AI?
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| 11:20 AM | Panel Discussion: Levers for change: How do we strengthen Elementary CS education through policy?
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| 12:00 PM | Lunch and Networking | |
| 1:30 PM | Panel Discussion: Who Benefits, Who Builds, Who Leads? Creating an Inclusive AI Future
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| 2:00 PM | Flash talks: Community-Centered Research
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| 3:00 PM | Session to be announced soon! | |
| 4:00 PM | Perspectives from the Classroom: Chicago Public Schools
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| 6:00 PM | Chicago Educator Celebration Reception and Showcase | Special Exhibits Gallery |
A half-day at The Study at the University of Chicago featuring hands-on, workshop-style sessions designed to turn insights into practical strategies for advancing CS and AI education in schools and communities nationwide. Key outputs from The Chicago Conversations will be published and shared to support broader field-building efforts beyond the Summit.
Agenda
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast and networking | Winter Garden |
| 9:00 AM | Morning synthesis and framing | Winter Garden |
| 10:00 AM | The Chicago Conversations
| Drafting rooms 1, 2, 3 |
| 11:30 AM | Collective Action Session: What Will We Build Together? | Winter Garden |
12:00 PM 1:00 PM | Final reflections and takeaway lunch Adjourn | Winter Garden |
