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FOR THE FUTURE OF LEARNING
How will i thrive?How will i thrive?How will i thrive?How will i thrive?
THE PORTRAIT OF A NEVADA LEARNER
How will I grow in my learning?
How do I build & sustain relationships & community?
How will I contribute to make an impact?
How will I thrive?
This is our community’s vision for what young people need to thrive, both in school and in life It was created by students, families, educators, and community leaders from across Nevada, and it helps guide all the work we do at the Center for the Future of Learning.
The Portrait focuses on durable skills like solving problems, working with others, being creative, and making a difference in your community It is about who you are, what you care about, and how you want to shape your future
On the front side, you will see a collective vision of the mindsets and skills that bring learning to life. It reminds us that school should also be about joy, creativity, purpose, and becoming the kind of person you want to be
Step into Felisha’s world and see what it means to grow in your learning. In this section, meet her in the “Hey Felisha” comic, peek at her personalized schedule, Arch Al will share some insights about wellness that is personalized to your astrological sign, and he’ll even show you what is in and out in fashion.
IMPACT EMPOWER
CONNECT
Discover how connection shapes the future of learning. Explore programs where discussion and respectful communication are key, see how technology helps learners build relationships with each other, their communities, and even the past, and take a fun brain
See how learners turn knowledge into action. Explore a student bill of rights, join Felisha and Arc Al to uncover what a flex credit could look like, and glimpse at how art can be a powerful tool for making an impact
Celebrate what it means to thrive in learning and life Say goodbye to Felisha, Al, and honor how the Futurescapers helped pave the way for a future we can all believe in
ABOUT THIS
We're the Futurescapers
Young people who believe learning should grow with us and not hold us back.
This Almanac is more than just a publication It’s a glimpse into what learning could become
Over the summer of 2025, we explored, asked questions, listened deeply, and imagined boldly. The result is this Almanac for the Future of Learning, a collection of ideas, reflections, and tools to help reimagine learning in communities like yours.
Meet the guides
Along the way, we created two characters to help guide the journey.
Felisha is a learner from the future She represents what is possible when learning is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and care She shows us a world where young people are empowered, connected, making impact, and thriving. F e might buil
Meet Meet
FELISHA FELISHA
Archeologist Al (or Arc Al, for short) is a timetraveling explorer from the year 2150. He has come back to study 2025, the moment everything started to change. You will find his notes and questions scattered throughout the Almanac, encouraging reflection, imagination, and a deeper look at the shifts already happening around us Scan some QR codes to see some of his films documenting his explorations
THE PORTRAIT OF A NEVADA LEARNER is our heart
How do I build & sustain relationships
CONNECTING EMPOWERING
How will I grow in my learning?
How will I thrive?
How will I contribute to make an impact?
IMPACTING
The heart of this Almanac is the Portrait of a Nevada Learner, a shared vision created by young people, families, educators, and community members. It describes the mindsets and skills that help every learner grow, connect, make an impact, and thrive in school and in life
This Almanac is a resource and an invitation Whether you are a teacher, a learner, a parent, or a neighbor, we hope you use it to spark conversations, try new ideas, and bring the Portrait to life in your own space.
How will I... grow in my learning? How will I... grow in my learning?
By empowering learners, time is no longer the constant to learning, but becomes the variable. Learners work at their own pace, and can freely express their curiosity and interest for subjects. Whether it's through interacting with VR Labs, creating a start-up, or meeting with mentors, there is a balance in a learner's schedule that creates the foundation for success. With empowerment, They just don't follow a path, they shape it.
FASHION FASHION FASHION FASHION
I start the day in the VR science Lab and tinker with different materials. I get to experiment in real-time. With the aid of these technologies, my learning is more interactive and preparing me the future
I have a hard time choosing what to wear since I can wear anything I want. This means I truly express myself with my fashion!
At the end of my school day, I meet with my mentor. I have this cool start up I want to launch, but I need advice on where to begin. this cocreative relationship helps foster my learning.
As a learner in the future, I have the autonomy to choose what I want to learn with the support of mentors. I receive a well-rounded education rooted in my interests and aligned to academic standards.
How might learning evolve to look like my experience?
Attend Virtual Reality Paris Fashion show through classport
Draw inspiration for my dress design (Nike, Northface, and etc)
Draft a dress that blends contemporary fashion with technology
Model it in 3D model program
IAN Hub job preparation workshop w/ life coach
Networking skills development
Prepare QR codes that leads to portfolio/resume
Attend local UNLV career fair
Notes: learn programminglanguages (Python,GO) Take AI 101 course @ CFL. ng with time travel.
Virtual coffee chat with OpenAI Engineer (need advice)
Shadow engineer for the day and take notes
brainstorming ideas for an tech application
Decided on a messaging platform for learner to connect w/ past.
Submit the dress design to top fashion moguls and brands
Policy meeting w/ teachers and legislators
Mental Health awareness post
Tutor w/ AI Buddy
Morning: AI wellness check + journal
apply what I learned from previous weeks.
Form a team with peeps from IAN Hub
Start project building process (design system thinking)
Afternoon: Create an instrumental for a video game
VR science lab
Weekly meeting with industry mentor
Consult with industry mentor about future/past texting platform
Empathy interviews w/ team and network
This planner consists of Felisha’s schedule. She experiences a myriad of learning opportunities that foster empowerment, community involvement, and growth, reflecting the portrait of a Nevada learner She is thriving in her environment, and through events like job preparations, mentorships, virtual fashion weeks, wellness checks, and creating her own start-up, her calendar presents a glimpse into the future. She self-reflects throughout her month, asking questions like “How will I grow in my learning?”. A month filled with autonomy, entrepreneurship, and interest.
PORTRAIT TRAIT: INNOVATION & AGENCY
You’re ahead of the curve, Aquarius. The Portrait celebrates learners who think differently and that’s your specialty Use your creativity and independence to design new solutions, challenge norms, and inspire change The future needs your vision
Pisces Pisces
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LEARNER AGENCY
You're blazing trails this month, Aries. The Portrait reminds you that your voice matters so speak up in your learning journey. Whether you ' re leading a group project or diving into a new skill, trust your instincts and take initiative.
Slow and steady wins the race, Taurus This month, embrace the Portrait’s call to be a lifelong learner Revisit something you once loved like music, cooking, or coding and deepen your mastery Your persistence is your superpower, and growth is your reward PORTRAIT TRAIT: COLLABORATION &
Dream big, Pisces The Portrait reminds us that learning is a shared journey Your compassion and imagination make you a powerful collaborator. This month, connect with others, share your ideas, and let empathy guide your growth
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LIFELONG LEARNING
PORTRAIT TRAIT: COMMUNICATION
Your words have wings, Gemini. The Portrait encourages clear, thoughtful communication, and you ’ re in your element. Whether you ' re writing, presenting, or just chatting with friends, your ability to connect ideas and people will open doors. Use your voice to inspire and inform.
PORTRAIT TRAIT: COLLABORATION
You’re the heart of the team, Cancer. This month, lean into the Portrait’s emphasis on collaboration. Support others, listen deeply, and build trust. Your empathy creates safe spaces for learning and your community will thrive because of it
H O R O S C O P E
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LEARNER IDENTITY
Leo Leo
Shine bright, Leo. The Portrait celebrates the uniqueness of every learner, and this month is your time to own your story. Reflect on your strengths, passions, and goals. You’re not just performing you ’ re evolving. Let your learning journey be your spotlight.
PORTRAIT TRAIT: CRITICAL THINKING
Your analytical mind is on fire, Virgo The Portrait urges learners to question, evaluate, and solve so you ’ re ready to tackle complex challenges. Whether it’s a research project or a real-world problem, your precision and insight will lead to breakthrough solutions.
Libra Libra
PORTRAIT TRAIT: CULTURAL & GLOBAL COMPETENCE
Balance and harmony are your gifts, Libra This month, explore diverse perspectives and global issues. The Portrait calls for learners to be culturally aware and globally engaged. Your diplomacy and curiosity will help bridge divides and build understanding.
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LEARNER AGENCY
You’re transforming, Scorpio. The Portrait’s focus on agency aligns with your deep desire for growth and control. Set bold goals, take ownership of your learning, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo You’re not just learning you ’ re evolving
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LIFELONG LEARNING
Adventure calls, Sagittarius The Portrait encourages explo and you ’ re ready to expand your horizons Whether it’s trav new course, follow your passion for discovery Learning is
PORTRAIT TRAIT: LEARNER AGENCY
You’re building something big, Capricorn. The Portrait’s emphasis on problem-solving and strategic thinking is your blueprint This month, tackle challenges with logic and grit Your ability to plan and execute will lead to meaningful impact
WHAT' S In ?
Oh Looks like they are on to some futuristic expression here.
Arch Al Approves of this message!
Allow Learners to express themselves through clothing
F a s h Just Be
WHA T ' S Ou t ?
ancient Discovery: Dress codes apparently were a thing These learners don't look like they're connecting with themselves. How did they Thrive under such control?
restricting student's creativity by limiting fashion
Ah, greetings from the year 2150!
REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS
I'm Archeologist Al, worldrenowned scholar of ancient education systems (and a bit of a time-traveling legend, if I may say so myself).
I've journeyed back to your curious little year, 2025, to study the great turning point in learning history. That's right, this moment.
These reflections are where I'll be leaving you notes, questions, and clues to help you uncover how the future might be your reality.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
How might we empower learners with the support they truly need, including academic, emotional, physical, and social? How do we create spaces where learners have real voice and meaningful choice in their learning journeys? their unique strengths and use growth, not just outcomes, and ?
TIPS & PRACTICES:
Spot the Spark: Notice what lights learners up Invite them to explore their passions and talents across subjects and experiences.
Model Curiosity: Share what you are learning too. Show learners that growth is lifelong and often nonlinear.
Build Self Advocacy: Create routines that help learners name their needs, reflect on their progress, and make decisions about their own learning
Support the Whole Person: Design learning environments that consider well-being. Learning thrives where people feel safe, seen, and supported.
How do I... build and sustain relationships and community? How do I... build and sustain relationships and community?
When learners understand how to learn with and from their community, they begin to understand why their learning matters. By building relationships with the world around them, learners develop empathy, collaboration skills, and a sense of belonging. Fortunately, innovative programs and connective technologies like classport allow them to gain these valuable skills and broaden their world-view. which will fuel curiosity and help learners grow as civically-engaged individuals. The community should act as a co-creator along side learners.
Through constantly entering into deep discussions feel ready ideas and for
es,yes... educa king communic priority mea arners have m he art ofeffe and respectf sharing idea others
future innovations future innovations
By transforming school assemblies into connection hubs, learners gain authentic opportunities to share ideas, build confidence, and engage with community leaders. It fosters meaningful dialogue, strengthens community ties, and helps learners see their voices as vital to shaping the future.
future innovations future innovations
By creating spaces where learner lead respectful discussions and debates, schools empower learners to think critically, listen actively, and engage diverse perspectives which are skills vital for success in both civic life and careers. This shift also nurtures learner agency, allowing learners to take ownership of their ideas and contribute meaningfully to a shared learning environment.
COMMUNICATION CREDIT PROGRAM
Learners everywhere are excited to join new programs where they explore their interests and earn credit!
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
AI Chatbot for Learners
AI BUDDY AI BUDDY
Helping Students Learn Anytime, Anywhere
What is AI Buddy
In the future, every learner has an AI Buddy designed just for them. It arrives already connected to a personalized learning network This small, pocketsized device helps you plan projects, discover new interests, and practice skills in real time AI Buddy adapts as you grow, offering support that feels more like a mentor than a machine For many learners, it becomes the most essential tool of the future.
HEY FELISHA - AI BUDDY
Now that the Day is over, I go to my AI Buddy It helps me selfstudy topics I'm interested in
To boost communication amongst peers, AI Buddy features collaboration systems that inspire learners to work with others in meaningful ways From generating informative and educational discussion questions to taking notes from conversations on takeaways to remember for the future, AI Buddy is education’s new conversation starter!
TIMETHREADS TIMETHREADS TALK TO THE FUTURE.
What is Timethreads?
Timethreads is the result of Felisha’s startup challenge Led by her passion for connecting people across time, she developed Timethreads, a revolutionary messaging platform that allows learners like her to send messages to the past. Timethreads ensures that communication skills are built not just from person-to-person in the modern age, but from one point in time to another Learners learn how to maximize communication as they learn through discussion! Asking the right questions and using the most of time chatting are great skills that prove impactful and useful!
Learn in a whole new way! A
technology!
CLASSPORT CLASSPORT
What is Classport?
Classport is a global learning format that allows learners to attend schools anywhere in the world without having to relocate. It provides opportunities to learn about the world through communicating with educators and classmates here and abroad!
Howtoregister?Upload yourresumeandthe countryorregionyou wouldliketostudyin.Then ourteamwillsendyour scheduleviaemail!
What school schedule would you follow? Would you follow the calendar of the country you will attend? This includes start and end times!
Kaitlyn Ayala-Graves
B R A I N B R E A K
Legend has it, for every word you find, it gets to be apart of the future of learning I’d get solving if I were you
ENGAGED, COCREATION, EMPOWERED, ADAPTIVE, FUN, AGENCY, REAL WORLD, CONNECTIVE, CURIOUS, HANDS ON, R E C P
WHAT IF CLASSROOMS
Recognition for learning done outside the traditional classroom Day 3 Arch-Al journal.
The [blank] of a Nevada Learner.
One key theme in the portrait; in the table of contents.
Technology that allows learners to learn globally.
A guide or supporter helping learners grow; Day 27 on Felisha’s planner.
Learners directing their own learning. Felisha uses this word
Empowerment to act and make choices; Felisha uses this word
In my studies of powerful learning communities, one thing stood out.
REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS
Connection was not an afterthought. It was the foundation.
The Portrait of a Nevada Learner names Connecting as a core domain. It asks: "How do I build and sustain relationships and community?"
These reflections are where I'll be leaving you notes, questions, and clues to help you uncover how the future might be your reality.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
How might we ensure every learner feels seen, heard, and va
How might we create real opportunities for collaboration in everyday learning?
How might learners communicate across different audiences, and experiences?
How might we model empathy and curiosity across cultures, generations, and perspectives?
Begin with con
: Reflect and sta oup work and shared g
on: Let learners express ideas d styles. nvite stories, materials, and t your learning space.
How will I... contribute to make an impact? How will I... contribute to make an impact?
Impact is about leaving the world differently than how it was, and learners wield a great potential for this impact. Whether it's through a system-wide change through policy engagement or a local community project that stands for sustainability and hope, no impact is too large or too small to make a difference in the world. It is the matter of learners looking beyond themselves, identifying their values, and choosing to act with purpose. Every learner has a sphere of influence, and in that lies the opportunities to shape the future.
By Understanding civics, and taking interesting flexcredit courses I know I ca make a
Inthe future le happens every Learners aren' to classroom with fluore light
S t u d e n t B i l l
f R i g h t s
The youth of the United States, through the enduring belief that education is the bedrock of a thriving, free, and just society, do affirm that the transformation of learning must begin with the guaranteed rights of students. In recognition of a rapidly changing world, and in order to strengthen democratic values, ensure equitable opportunity, and protect the dignity of all learners, this Student Bill of Rights is hereby proposed as a national framework to guide the future of education for generations to come Resolved, by the People of the United States and their Representatives in Congress, that the following Articles be adopted as declarations of student rights throughout the nation’s schools:
AMENDMENT I
Students shall have the right to a meaningful, fulfilling, and enriching education that prepares them not only for careers, but for civic life, personal growth, and lifelong purpose.
AMENDMENT II
Students shall have the right to high academic standards and instruction that challenge them, nurture their strengths, and support their full intellectual and creative potential.
AMENDMENT III
Students shall have the right to voice their opinions in the creation, review, and implementation of curriculum and school policies at every grade level
AMENDMENT IV
Students shall have the right to safe, clean, and welcoming school environments physically and emotionally that are free from harm, harassment, discrimination, or fear
AMENDMENT V
Students shall have the right to confidential conversations with teachers, counselors, or school administrators regarding personal or sensitive matters, except where safety requires disclosure.
HEY FELISHA and the Students Bill of RIghts
rIGHT NOW i'M IN A MEETING TO DISCUSS THOSE nEW EDUCATION AMENDMENTS
To Create it, community members, teachers, policy makers, and learners came together to reimagine what learning could be. education now teaches durable skills and takes student feedback into account.
Afterwards, I did more research on the Student bill of rights. It came about to innovate education. It made school more learner-centered, while maintaining academic excellence.
STUDENTS GETting A SAY IN THEIR EDUCATION. Cool right?
THE THE
FLEX FLEX SYSTEM SYSTEM
Co-creative solutions
Co-creative solutions
Learners Testify about their most transformational learning experiences
While watching a bill presentation in the education committee, one congressman learned about a proposition from learners to earn credit in the classroom for topics outside of English, Math, and Science. They advocated for a new credit system that rewarded learners who explored their future careers and prepartion
COcreation
John completed empathy interviews with the youth constituents in his district to understand what items they cared about in their education. Through co-creation, they designed a new pathway forward, and the thoughts of presenting students rung true each session
We want to do real work that matters
Parents and educators raised their voice as well and advocated for opening doors to new credit opportunities that would allow them to teach on a wider range of topics and professions
John introduced and eventually passed the flex credit act, which allowed learners to submit proposals to school administration through an easily accessible portal. If learners followed certain guidlines, they would provide credit for the completion of work in a range of spaces, career and skills building.
John reflects with a class of learners about how he worked on and passed the flex credit act Students are earning credit hours for attending his skillsbuilding session and learning about the legislative process.
Portrait of a Nevada Learner clears the way for learning innovation
Ah, the years 2028–2029! A transformative stretch of time where learners, families, and educators collaborated to make radical changes... they spoke, and the system listened.
earners testified, the community organized, and legislators listened. Together, through collaboration, they passed the Flex Credit Act, allowing learners to earn credit for real-world projects, like launching a business, facilitating workshops, and interning at local companies.
As I examined the events surrounding thisact, I noticed apowerful shift: Youngpeoplewereno longer waiting to be given permission to learn differentlyand take specific courses they leading their own path. Lived led solutions
TEEN ART INSTALLATION AWARDED BEST IN THE COUNTRY
In the spring of 2029, a 17-year-old learner named Isabella Martinez took a pile of trashed Tshirts and turned them into a movement.
Isabella creation, Threaded Roots, wasn't just wearable art.
It was a message tree stitched with handwritten hopes from over 200 neighbors. Each scrap of fabric held a story.
Each thread pulled the community a little closer. The piece stood nearly 9 feet tall in the middle of a cracked parking lot in North Las Vegas, transformed into a pop-up gallery and block party. Local artists showed up. Elders added their memories. Young kids danced around it like it was a maypole of the future.
Isabella's work was part of the Futuremaker: Artist of the Future competition, a statewide challenge inviting young people to turn fast fashion waste into community-powered art.
The mission: upcycle what would've been tossed. Rally your neighborhood. Create something that inspires hope, sustainability, and real connection. The whole thing was rooted in the Portrait of a Nevada Learner, especially agency, contribution, and belonging. But honestly, it was about what happens when young people lead, dream big, and invite their communities to dream with them.
As Isabella put it,
"I didn't want to just make something cool. I wanted it to feel like us — like healing, like action, like home."
Andthat'sexactlywhatit was.
In the future I come from, learners are changemakers. They don't just learn for learning's sake. They learn to contribute, to create, and to lead. And it all began with communities like yours asking a simple question: "How will I contribute to make an impact?"
REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS
In 2025, this idea was already growing.
Here are the questions and practices that helped move it forward.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
How might we help learners use what they know to solve real problems?
How might we build critical thinking into everyday learning?
How will I... thrive? How will I... thrive?
thriving isn't just about success. it's about integrity and resilience. whether that is giving back to the community or doing small things to make the world a better place. a learner who thrives is able to grow from their mistakes and seek help so they make mindful decisions. they are adaptive and willing to learn, unlearn, and relearn newer methods.
I'm not here to get by. I'm here to thr
Guided by the Po of a Nevada Lea educators have newsystemofl where every s has the opport thrive
Hey Hey FELISHA FELISHA
Thriving is more than surviving
Even when school feels overwhelming, I have the support and balance I need to keep going
The Futurescapers imagined a future where every learner could thrive.
Thriving means caring for my mind, body and
Because of them, I'm living the future we all believed in.
8 F a c t s A B O U T
THE NORM 1. AI TUTORS
2. 2.
4. 4. 1. AI TUTORS
NORM
Each student in 2040 has a personal AI mentor that knows their strengths, interests, and gaps, offering support far beyond what a single teacher could manage.
Curriculums pivoted away from fact recall, focusing instead on creative problem solving, collaboration, and adaptability the true 21stcentury skills
REPLACED MEMORIZATION AS A TOP SKILL REPLACED MEMORIZATION AS A 3. SCHOOL DAYS SHRANK, BUT LEARNING EXPANDED 3. SCHOOL DAYS SHRANK, BUT LEARNING THE
BECAME ALIVE BECAME ALIVE
No more fixed textbooks. Content updates in real time, blending science, news, ethics, and technology into an ever-evolving learning journey.
4 day school weeks and flexible hours became standard, yet students learned more due to personalized and purpose-driven education. Students had more time to explore personal interests and learn career-oriented skills.
5. 5. STUDENTS NO LONGER LEARN INSIDE FOUR WALLS STUDENTS NO LONGER LEARN INSIDE FOUR WALLS
By 2040, over 60% of students spent part of their school week in virtual or real-world learning spaces.
Instead of just taking classes, students co-create learning paths, blending required knowledge with their passions.
7. TESTS BECAME CONVERSATIONS 7. TESTS BECAME CONVERSATIONS
Instead of bubble sheets and stressing out over scantrons, students now engage in Socratic panels, multimedia presentations, and collaborative demos to show what they’ve learned
In future learning, “ wrong answers ” are celebrated for the questions they spark, not punished for missing the
In my time, thriving is not about perfection. It is about perseverance.
REFLECTIONS REFLECTIONS
The learners who flourish are the ones who stay grounded in their values, flexible in their thinking, and brave enough to grow through challenge.
Back in 2025, I discovered this powerful question at the heart of your learning communities: "How will I thrive?"
Here are the questions and practices that helped learners not just survive change, but grow because of it.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
How do we help learners bounce back from mistakes and see them as part of the process?
How can we support continuous learning as a mindset, not just a goal? How do we encourage young people to act with integrity, even when it’s hard?
What systems and relationships help learners feel supported during times of change?
TIPS & PRACTICES:
Normalize setbacks: Celebrate learning from failure and trying again
Model flexibility: Show that learning often means unlearning and adapting.
Hold space for values: Let learners name what matters to them and practice living it.
Support the whole person: Build environments that care for learners’ mental, emotional, and social well-being
THE PORTRAIT OF A NEVADA LEARNER
As you reach the end of this Almanac, take a moment to look back at what you ’ ve explored and reflect on your own journey using the questions of the Portrait
Everything in these pages was imagined and created with one question in mind: What does it mean to be a learner today, and how do we shape a better tomorrow?
Thank you to our Futurescapers, CFL Team, & Supportive Partners: Alejandro Quevedo, Allan Ilano, Akilah Bello, Anirudh Polagani, Angeline Lopez, Aubrey-Ann Au, Audrey Symone Campbell, Danica Ruiz, Derek Figueroa, Felipe Delacruz ii, Kaitlyn Ayala-Graves, Marc Angelo Hosana, Sebastian Rios, Sean Parker, Andy Lott, Felicia Rutledge, Jeanine Collins, and Mayra Carrera
Howwill i growinmy learning?Howwill i growinmy learning?Howwill i growinmy learning?
