Just as test scores do not tell the full picture of student success, the world’s best education systems aim higher than rankings alone.
Drawing on new global analysis of 83 education systems, join us as we explore how the world’s best systems deliver Excellence, Equity, and Efficiency across learner’s lives.
Join us on March 19, 2026 at 11:00am ET as we hear from senior leaders in Finland, Singapore, Estonia, and the United States on the policy choices and system design decisions that drive lasting results not just for higher test scores but for stronger outcomes in life beyond school.
Designed for policymakers, researchers, and system leaders, this conversation will offer practical insight into how excellence is built, sustained, and reimagined for a changing world.
The Panel
Tracey Burns
Chief Globlal Strategy & Research Officer at NCEE
An international education researcher, Dr. Tracey Burns brings deep expertise in education systems, evidence-informed policy, and long-term futures thinking.
Olli-Pekka Heinonen
Director General of the International Baccalaureate
Heinonen previously served as Finland’s Minister of Education and Science and as Director General of the Finnish National Agency for Education. He brings global leadership experience and deep expertise in system reform, internationalization, and preparing education systems for a rapidly changing world.
Sten Kapten
Former Senior Leader, Ministry of Education, Estonia
Kapten played a senior leadership role in Estonia’s education ministry during the country’s rise as one of the world’s top-performing systems. He brings deep expertise in system design, innovation, and the future of education, including the implications of AI and personalized learning at scale
Vicki Phillips
CEO at NCEE
A lifelong educator, Dr. Phillips career has focused on ensuring every student has access to high-quality teaching and learning through evidence-based policy and practice.
Siew Hoong Wong
Advisor, Ministry of Education, Singapore
In his previous role as Director-General of Education in Singapore, Wong led major system reforms spanning national assessment, curriculum renewal, subject-based banding, and digital learning. He brings firsthand insight into how a high-performing system translates policy into sustained, system-wide results.
