Outcomes Based Contracting 2025 Convening

Agenda About the Convening FAQs Speakers

Convening 2025 is over, but the momentum shows no signs of slowing!

From Senate testimony shining a national spotlight on outcomes based contracting, to the release of the Standards of Excellence for Outcomes Based Contracting™: Edtech Instructional Interventions, to a feature in The 74—all in the brief time since Convening, the momentum is real.

We’re already channeling that energy into planning for next year’s Convening. Bigger. Better. Bolder. Stay tuned.

About the Convening

The 2025 OBC Convening is where fresh ideas meet real-world implementation—where the energy of a national movement becomes actionable next steps.

Across plenaries, working sessions, and hallway conversations, you’ll find a space built for momentum: energizing, collaborative, and focused on doing better by students and systems.

Photo of a panel at the OBC 2025 Convening

Convening Photos

Agenda

4:00 - 5:00 PM

Caribe Royale Lobby

Registration
5:00 - 6:00 PM

Boca Outside Patio

Social Hour
6:00 - 7:30 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Welcome Dinner & Reception

Speakers
- Dr. Brittany Miller
  
  Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director, The Center for OBC
- Dr. Maria F. Vazquez
  
  Superintendent, Orange County Public Schools
- Raymond C. Pierce
  
  President & CEO, Southern Education Foundation

8:00 - 9:00 AM

Caribbean 4 & 5

Breakfast
9:00 - 10:15 AM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Opening Plenary 9:00 – 10:15 AM

Opening Plenary Speaker
- Jasmine Walker
  
  Director, The Center for OBC
Keynote Speaker
- Erin Mote
  
  CEO and Founder, InnovateEDU
10:30 - 11:30 AM

Breakout Sessions #1
First Round of Breakout Sessions

From Cost to Value: Demystifying OBC Pricing

Room: Boca 3

Shifting from cost to value is at the heart of outcomes based contracting (OBC). This session will break down how OBC pricing works, from clearly defining student populations to building rate cards that reflect the outcomes districts value most. Participants will explore real examples from OBC districts and providers, compare traditional and outcomes based pricing, and practice navigating pricing conversations with greater confidence.

Speakers
- Brittany Johnson
  
  Professional Development Manager, The Center for OBC
- Elise Lenthe
  
  Director, Insights & Analytics, The Center for OBC
State-District Partnerships That Deliver: Building an OBC-Ready Ecosystem

Room: Boca 4

Strong state-district partnerships are essential for scaling outcomes based contracting (OBC). In this interactive session, Results for America and leaders from Arkansas will explore how state education agencies and intermediaries can support adoption of OBC and what local education agencies need to succeed. Participants will engage with a draft set of state policy levers, contribute feedback, and identify high-impact strategies through a collaborative gallery walk and dot-voting activity. Walk away with concrete ideas to strengthen your state’s role in building an OBC ready ecosystem.

Speakers
- Heather Boughton
  
  Director, Education Policy Implementation, Results for America
- Jasmine Walker
  
  Director, The Center for OBC
- Lesley Nelms
  
  District Administrator, Hamburg School District
- Meghan Thompson
  
  Director of Programs, Forward Arkansas
- Sara Kerr
  
  Vice President, Education Policy Implementation, Results for America
More Than a Promise: Operationalizing Mutual Accountability

Room: Boca 5

Mutual accountability is more than a commitment; it is the foundation of authentic OBC partnerships. This session will explore how districts and providers share responsibility for creating the conditions that lead to student success, from setting clear expectations to tracking student outcomes. Through scenarios and collaborative activities, participants will practice applying a practical formula that includes district and provider requirements, process outcomes, and remedies when challenges arise. Participants will leave with tools to strengthen trust, foster shared ownership, and embed accountability into every stage of implementation.

Speakers
- Ashley Jordan
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
- Theo Shaw
  
  Lead National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
Setting the Tone: How Organizational Leaders Build Systems That Deliver

Room: Boca 6

Strong leadership is essential to making outcomes based contracting (OBC) more than a short-term initiative. In this session, district and provider leaders will share how they align vision, priorities, and systems to build the conditions for sustainable OBC. Through a mix of fireside chats, reflection, and panel discussion, participants will explore strategies for building buy-in, sequencing change, and avoiding common pitfalls. Leaders will leave with practical insights and actionable steps to “set the tone” for organizational systems that deliver results for students.

Speakers
- Ann Clark
  
  National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
- Ann Loorz
  
  Executive Director, Purchasing, Fresno Unified School District
- Dr. Chelsea Montgomery
  
  Advisor to Operations, Atlanta Public Schools
- Laura Brown
  
  Regional VP Sales, Edmentum
- Dr. Scott Muri
  
  National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
11:45 - 12:45 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5

Lunch
12:45 - 1:30 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Panel: From Silos to Synergy: Unlocking Outcomes Through Cross-Sector Collaboration

Panelists
- Courtney Lincoln
  
  Vice President, Impact, Forward Arkansas
- Dr. Kenita Williams
  
  Chief Operating Officer, Southern Education Foundation
- Dr. Kristopher Childs
  
  Chief Academic Officer, Open Up Resources
- Paula Renfro
  
  Chief Academic Officer, Duval County Public Schools
1:45 - 2:45 PM

Breakout Sessions #2
From Signal to Strategy: Preparing for the OBC Inflection Point

Room: Boca 3

Outcomes based contracting (OBC) has moved from possibility to reality, reshaping how districts and providers plan, fund, and partner. This session explores the market signals showing that OBC readiness is becoming essential and guides participants in separating perceived risks from navigable challenges. Through expert insights and real contract examples, participants will learn how financial and outcomes alignment can strengthen readiness. They will leave with practical strategies to align finances with outcomes, manage risk, and position their organizations to capture the growing demand for OBC.

Speakers
- Dr. Brittany Miller
  
  Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director, The Center for OBC
- Jillian Evans
  
  Provider Strategy & Engagement, The Center for OBC
- Justin Serrano
  
  Founder & CEO, Littera Education
- Shelby Kohn
  
  Managing Director, Maycomb
How Do We Know That OBC Works? What the Data and Districts Are Telling Us

Room: Boca 4

How do we know if outcomes based contracting (OBC) is working? This session brings together district leaders and WestEd researchers to share early findings from OBC implementations, highlighting both successes and lessons learned. Participants will examine what the data tells us so far, what questions remain, and how continuous improvement and mutual accountability shape this work. The conversation will also surface future research priorities and district perspectives to guide the next phase of OBC learning.

Speakers
- Dr. Cara Jackson
  
  Research Manager, The Center for OBC
- Kelsey Krausen
  
  Director, Strategic Resource Allocation & Systems Planning, WestEd
- Sean Tanner
  
  Senior Research Manager, Resource Planning, WestEd
- Dr. Scott Muri
  
  National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
Shared Evidence, Stronger Outcomes: Building Contracts That Work for Everyone

Room: Boca 5

This session builds shared understanding about research evidence and its role in successful outcome-based contracting. Guided by the Center for OBC Insights Team and Leanlab, participants will learn to evaluate research quality, understand implementation conditions, and make informed decisions about evidence-based contracts. The session combines foundational knowledge with practical application through collaborative activities that help districts become informed consumers of research and providers communicate more effectively about their evidence base.

Speakers
- Danielle Johnson
  
  Strategic Analytics Manager, The Center for OBC
- Elise Lenthe
  
  Director, Insights & Analytics, The Center for OBC
- Katie Boody
  
  Adorno, CEO & Founder, Leanlab
Beyond the Contract: What It Takes to Partner for Student Success

Room: Boca 6

True outcomes based contracting (OBC) partnerships go beyond the words on paper. In this session, leaders from Duval County Public Schools and Amira Learning will share how they built a shared purpose, navigated challenges, and sustained momentum through mutual accountability. Participants will hear about the decisions, commitments, and adaptive strategies that shaped their journey, as well as the student outcomes and partnership shifts that resulted. The conversation will highlight what it really takes for districts and providers to partner for student success.

Speakers
- Billy Warden
  
  Vice President, Success Management, Amira Learning
- Brittany Johnson
  
  Professional Development Manager, The Center for OBC
- Nicole Dowen
  
  Director, Reading/ELA, Duval County Public Schools
- Ashley Jordan
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Pioneering Together: Lessons from the First OBC CBPL Cohort

Room: Boca 7

The first OBC Curriculum-Based Professional Learning (CBPL) cohort brought districts and providers together from the very beginning of their contracting journey. In this session, Bienville Parish and Blue Engine will share how they navigated early decisions on setting monitoring outcomes and planning for continuous improvement under an outcomes based contract. Participants will hear candid reflections on the challenges, breakthroughs, and mindset shifts required to move from theory to implementation. The session will highlight how OBC for CBPL supports high-quality instruction and creates authentic partnerships rooted in shared accountability.

Speakers
- Adam Feiler
  
  National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
- Olivia Barrow
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
- Megan Carey
  
  Senior Vice President, Organizational Learning, Strategy, & Improvement, Blue Engine
- Dr. Mary Riley
  
  Director of Special Education, Bienville Parish School Board
3:00 - 4:00 PM

Breakout Sessions #3
Let’s Talk About the Terms: Strategic Negotiation

Room: Boca 3

Negotiation is more than striking a deal—it’s about building sustainable partnerships that keep student outcomes at the center. In this interactive session, participants will learn how to approach outcomes based contracting negotiations with confidence, from establishing initial agreements to navigating mid-course pivots. Through real-world scenarios and hands-on practice, participants will explore strategies for clarifying non-negotiables, balancing risk and reward, and knowing when and how to adapt agreements. They will leave with tools to strengthen trust, communicate values clearly, and turn negotiation into a pathway for stronger collaboration.

Speaker
- Kinsley Nelon
  
  Multilingual Programs Director, Uplift Education
Is OBC Right for Us? A Candid Look at Readiness, Risk, and Opportunity

Room: Boca 4

Exploring outcomes based contracting (OBC) for the first time comes with both excitement and uncertainty. In this candid session, eStem Public Charter Schools and TNTP will share lessons from their early OBC journeys, including the mindset shifts, system changes, and cross-functional alignment required to get started. Participants will engage in honest conversation about readiness, distinguish between perceived risks and real challenges, and consider practical next steps such as piloting initiatives or securing executive buy-in.

Speakers
- Dr. Janice Page
  
  Assistant Superintendent of Academics, eStem Public Charter Schools
- Jillian Evans
  
  Provider Strategy & Engagement, The Center for OBC
- Katie Mackey
  
  Consulting Partner, TNTP
- Lin Johnson III
  
  Chief of Strategy, Growth & Finance, TNTP
From Cost to Value: Demystifying OBC Pricing

Room: Boca 5

Shifting from cost to value is at the heart of outcomes based contracting (OBC). This session will break down how OBC pricing works, from clearly defining student populations to building rate cards that reflect the outcomes districts value most. Participants will explore real examples from OBC districts and providers, compare traditional and outcomes based pricing, and practice navigating pricing conversations with greater confidence.

Speakers
- Brittany Johnson
  
  Professional Development Manager, The Center for OBC
- Danielle Johnson
  
  Strategic Analytics Manager, The Center for OBC
The Power of the Pivot: Learning Through Early OBC Challenges

Room: Boca 6

Every innovation has a “messy middle” where big ideas meet real-world complexity. In this candid, story-driven session, early adopters of outcomes based contracting (OBC), including a district leader from Jackson Public Schools and Air Tutors, will share how their initial challenges in implementation led to stronger systems, deeper trust, and clearer alignment. Through mini-stories and open dialogue, participants will explore what it means to pivot without losing sight of student outcomes. Participants will leave with practical insights and strategies for navigating the inevitable twists in their own OBC journey.

Speakers
- Hasan Ali
  
  Founder, Air Tutors
- LaToya Blackshear
  
  Director of Planning of Evaluation, Jackson Public Schools and National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
- Theo Shaw
  
  Lead National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
OBC Coaches On Call: Plan, Ask, and Act in Real Time

Room: Boca 7

This session is open to all convening participants and provides the opportunity to connect with OBC coaches for real-time guidance and support.
- Current cohort districts can use this time to advance projects, problem-solve challenges, and refine next steps.
  Providers can meet with coaches to ask questions and deepen their understanding of how the OBC model works in practice.
- Districts not currently in a cohort can explore the OBC approach, gain clarity on how it might apply in their context, and consider next steps for engagement.
  No matter your role or level of experience with OBC, this session offers a dedicated space to plan, ask, and act with the support of experienced coaches.
Speakers
- Ashley Jordan
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Closed Session: Strategic Advisory Council

Room: Boca 8
5:00 - 6:00 PM

In front of Caribbean 4 & 5

Social Hour Sponsored by Accelerate
6:00 - 7:30 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5

Dinner

With a Student Performance From Lake Buena Vista High School

8:00 - 9:00 AM

Caribbean 4 & 5

Breakfast
9:00 - 9:30 AM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Opening Plenary

Speaker
- Jasmine Walker
  
  Director, The Center for OBC
9:45 - 10:45 AM

Breakout Sessions #4
Live from the Lab: Designing Contracts with Standards of Excellence for OBC™

Room: Boca 3

Speakers
- Brittany Johnson
  
  Professional Development Manager, The Center for OBC
- Jasmine Walker
  
  Director, The Center for OBC
- Olivia Barrow
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Designing for Outcomes: How Providers and Districts Co-Create Solutions That Work

Room: Boca 4

Too often, contracts focus on services delivered rather than the results students achieve. This session highlights how outcomes based contracting (OBC) reframes the relationship between districts and providers into one of shared accountability and real-time adaptation. Through stories from district leaders and Littera Education, participants will explore how co-created contract language, data-driven decision-making, and clear definitions of success strengthen partnerships. The session will surface practical strategies for aligning procurement with student outcomes while maintaining flexibility in implementation.

Speakers
- Danielle Johnson
  
  Strategic Analytics Manager, The Center for OBC
- Dr. Janet Wilson
  
  Senior Vice President, District Solutions, Littera Education
- Jillian Evans
  
  Provider Strategy & Engagement, The Center for OBC
- Justin Serrano
  
  Founder & CEO, Littera Education
- LaToya Blackshear
  
  National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
The Case for Change: What Contract Analysis Tells Us About Student-Centered Procurement

Room: Boca 5

This session will unpack findings from the National Student Support Accelerator (NSSA) about how strategic contracting can transform service delivery. Participants will explore how clear expectations, documented success measures, and accountability structures can move procurement beyond the status quo. The discussion will highlight why transparency in goals, measures, and provider selection matters and how contracts can serve as roadmaps for both implementation and success. Participants will leave with strategies to make contracting a driver of student-centered outcomes and continuous improvement.

Speakers
- Dr. Brittany Miller
  
  Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director, The Center for OBC
- Elise Lenthe
  
  Director, Insights & Analytics, The Center for OBC
- Nancy Waymack
  
  Director of Partnerships and Policy, SCALE Initiative, NSSA, Stanford University
How Do We Know That OBC Works? What the Data and Districts Are Telling Us

Room: Boca 6

How do we know if outcomes based contracting (OBC) is working? This session brings together district leaders and WestEd researchers to share early findings from OBC implementations, highlighting both successes and lessons learned. Participants will examine what the data tells us so far, what questions remain, and how continuous improvement and mutual accountability shape this work. The conversation will also surface future research priorities and district perspectives to guide the next phase of OBC learning.

Speakers
- Dr. Cara Jackson
  
  Research Manager, The Center for OBC
- Kelsey Krausen
  
  Director, Strategic Resource Allocation & Systems Planning, WestEd
- Sean Tanner
  
  Senior Research Manager, Resource Planning, WestEd
- Dr. Scott Muri
  
  National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
OBC Coaches On Call: Plan, Ask, and Act in Real Time

Room: Boca 7

This session is open to all convening participants and provides the opportunity to connect with OBC coaches for real-time guidance and support.
- Current cohort districts can use this time to advance projects, problem-solve challenges, and refine next steps.
- Providers can meet with coaches to ask questions and deepen their understanding of how the OBC model works in practice.
- Districts not currently in a cohort can explore the OBC approach, gain clarity on how it might apply in their context, and consider next steps for engagement.
No matter your role or level of experience with OBC, this session offers a dedicated space to plan, ask, and act with the support of experienced coaches.

Speakers
- Ashley Jordan
  
  Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
- Theo Shaw
  
  Lead National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Panel: OBC and State Grants: Moving Policy to Practice

Panelists
- Amy Counts
  
  Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Department of Education
- Dr. Colby Self
  
  Director of Texas Tutoring Supports, Texas Education Agency
- Jennie Wise
  
  Assistant Director, Florida Tutoring Advantage
- Dr. Nakia Towns
  
  Chief Operating Officer, Accelerate
12:00 - 1:00 PM

Caribbean 4 & 5
Lunch & Closing

Speaker
- Dr. Brittany Miller
  
  Chief Innovation Officer & Executive Director, The Center for OBC

I no longer want to purchase things and say, ‘Well, we hope it happens.’ I want to know!

Paula Renfro, Chief Academic Officer of Duval County Public Schools

It just makes sense that we pay for quality service

Scott Muri, superintendent of the Ector County Independent School District in Odessa, Texas

What to Expect

At the 2025 OBC Convening, you’ll join a dynamic cross-section of education leaders, funders, and strategic partners working to advance student outcomes through better procurement, service delivery, and system design. Together, we will:

Deepen understanding of OBC principles, practice, and purpose
Reimagine public spending as a lever for achieving meaningful results for all students
Share what’s working and surface new insights from across the field
Identify next steps that accelerate OBC in your system
Strengthen partnerships that drive measurable impact

Speakers

Dr. Brittany Miller

Chief Innovation Officer & ED, The Center for OBC
Dr. Maria F. Vazquez

Superintendent, Orange County Public Schools
Jasmine Walker

Director, The Center for OBC
Erin Mote

CEO and Founder, InnovateEDU
Brittany Johnson

Professional Development Manager, The Center for OBC
Elise Lenthe

Director, Insights & Analytics, The Center for OBC
Heather Boughton

Director, Education Policy Implementation, Results for America
Lesley Nelms

District Administrator, Hamburg School District
Meghan Thompson

Director of Programs, Forward Arkansas
Sara Kerr

Vice President, Education Policy Implementation, Results for America
Ashley Jordan

Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Theo Shaw

Lead National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
Ann Clark

National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
Ann Loorz

Executive Director, Purchasing, Fresno Unified School District
Dr. Chelsea Montgomery

Advisor to Operations, Atlanta Public Schools
Laura Brown

Regional VP Sales, Edmentum
Dr. Scott Muri

National OBC Executive Coach, The Center for OBC
Courtney Lincoln

Vice President, Impact, Forward Arkansas
Dr. Kenita Williams

Chief Operating Officer, Southern Education Foundation
Dr. Kristopher Childs

Chief Academic Officer, Open Up Resources
Paula Renfro

Chief Academic Officer, Duval County Public Schools
Justin Serrano

Founder & CEO, Littera Education
Shelby Kohn

Managing Director, Maycomb
Dr. Cara Jackson

Research Manager, The Center for OBC
Kelsey Krausen

Director, Strategic Resource Allocation & Systems Planning, WestEd
Sean Tanner

Senior Research Manager, Resource Planning, WestEd
Danielle Johnson

Strategic Analytics Manager, The Center for OBC
Katie Boody Adorno

CEO & Founder, Leanlab
Billy Warden

Vice President, Success Management, Amira Learning
Nicole Dowen

Director, Reading/ELA, Duval County Public Schools
Ashley Jordan

Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Adam Feiler

National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
Olivia Barrow

Senior Specialist, Professional Learning, The Center for OBC
Megan Carey

Senior Vice President, Organizational Learning, Strategy, & Improvement, Blue Engine
Dr. Mary Riley

Director of Special Education, Bienville Parish School Board
Kinsley Nelon

Multilingual Programs Director, Uplift Education
Dr. Janice Page

Assistant Superintendent of Academics, eStem Public Charter Schools
Jillian Evans

Provider Strategy & Engagement, The Center for OBC
Katie Mackey

Consulting Partner, TNTP
Lin Johnson III

Chief of Strategy, Growth & Finance, TNTP
Hasan Ali

Founder, Air Tutors
LaToya Blackshear

Director of Planning of Evaluation, Jackson Public Schools and National OBC Coach, The Center for OBC
Dr. Janet Wilson

Senior Vice President, District Solutions, Littera Education
Nancy Waymack

Director of Partnerships and Policy, SCALE Initiative, NSSA, Stanford University
Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Department of Education
Dr. Colby Self

Director of Texas Tutoring Supports, Texas Education Agency
Jennie Wise

Assistant Director, Florida Tutoring Advantage
Dr. Nakia Towns

Chief Operating Officer, Accelerate

FAQs

The registration fee for general conference goers is $350. If you are a current cohort district member, you can bring up to four people at no cost. Alumni cohort district members can bring up to two people at no cost. Your registration fee includes access to all sessions, workshops, and convening activities, as well as event materials and meals provided during the three-day event.
By attending the Convening, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of Outcomes based contracting and its potential to revolutionize the educational landscape. You’ll learn how OBC aligns the interests of education providers and school districts to prioritize student outcomes. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore practical strategies for implementing OBC in your district, fostering accountability, and driving meaningful improvements in student achievement.
If you are a current cohort or alumni district member, you are eligible for reimbursement. Current cohort members can bring up to four people at no cost, and alumni members can bring up to two people at no cost. You’ll need to book your own flight, hotel, and transportation. Reimbursable costs include flights, car rentals, and/or mileage, up to a total of $550. Carshare and parking costs are reimbursable up to $85. Hotel rooms booked under the designated room block will be reimbursed up to $179 per night. Food, incidentals, and other expenses are not reimbursable.

Outcomes Based Contracting 2025 Convening

Convening 2025 is over, but the momentum shows no signs of slowing!

About the Convening

The 2025 OBC Convening is where fresh ideas meet real-world implementation—where the energy of a national movement becomes actionable next steps.

Convening Photos

Agenda

Wednesday, September 17th

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Friday, September 19, 2025

I no longer want to purchase things and say, ‘Well, we hope it happens.’ I want to know!

It just makes sense that we pay for quality service

What to Expect

Speakers

Dr. Brittany Miller

Dr. Maria F. Vazquez

Jasmine Walker

Erin Mote

Brittany Johnson

Elise Lenthe

Heather Boughton

Lesley Nelms

Meghan Thompson

Sara Kerr

Ashley Jordan

Theo Shaw

Ann Clark

Ann Loorz

Dr. Chelsea Montgomery

Laura Brown

Dr. Scott Muri

Courtney Lincoln

Dr. Kenita Williams

Dr. Kristopher Childs

Paula Renfro

Justin Serrano

Shelby Kohn