CEI Launches 'CEI NEXT' to Drive Measurable Change in Public Education

New initiative aims to enhance educational practices and prepare both educators and students for the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Center for Educational Innovation (CEI), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving public education, has announced the launch of CEI NEXT. The initiative focuses on two interconnected areas: supporting teachers through professional development and leadership training, and enriching student learning through programs in technology, the arts, and STEAM education.

Why it matters

CEI NEXT represents an ambitious effort to address longstanding challenges in public education, particularly in under-resourced communities. By investing in both educators and students, the organization aims to drive measurable improvements in academic achievement, growth, and innovation.

The details

The CEI NEXT Teachers and CEI NEXT Leaders programs are designed to develop the skills and leadership capabilities of teachers and administrators through coaching, professional development, and training. Meanwhile, student-focused initiatives like NEXTgen Tech, Creative Futures, Innovation Labs, and STEAM Centers expose students to a range of subjects from robotics and AI to the arts, equipping them with technical and creative skills for future careers. The organization's Career Academy model also connects education to workforce readiness and adapts to local economic needs.

  • CEI announced the launch of CEI NEXT in February 2026.

The players

Dr. Michael Kohlhagen

President and CEO of the Center for Educational Innovation (CEI).

The Center for Educational Innovation (CEI)

A non-profit organization dedicated to improving public education by partnering with school leaders, educators, families, and students.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“CEI is at an exciting inflection point marked by the launch of CEI NEXT, the new chapter in our 36-year history of transforming public education.”

— Dr. Michael Kohlhagen, President and CEO of CEI (minnesotaheadlines.com)

“We're developing strong pipelines of motivated, capable young local talent—students who are often overlooked by traditional recruiting channels but who bring creativity, resilience, and real-world skills to the workforce.”

— Dr. Michael Kohlhagen, President and CEO of CEI (minnesotaheadlines.com)

What’s next

CEI plans to open a new Aviation Academy in Queens, New York, focused on preparing students for careers in drone technology and aircraft maintenance.

The takeaway

CEI NEXT represents a comprehensive approach to transforming public education, investing in both educators and students to drive measurable improvements in academic achievement, growth, and innovation, particularly in under-resourced communities.