What is an Innovation Tour?

IDEA organizes education tours of innovative schools and programs around the country. Thirty participants spend time in four schools discussing what they are seeing with each other and IDEA facilitators.

Why should I go on an Innovation Tour?

Because you want to see dynamic schools and projects with your own eyes and then have the chance to discuss what you’re seeing with other teachers, students, parents, school board members, business leaders, and policy-makers. Conferences are great places to talk - but the Innovation Tours offer a place to really see and engage with what is happening in various parts of the U.S.

Here's what tour participants are saying:


“Most PD (professional development) for teachers isn’t that good. I’ve had the privilege of having a few that have changed how I teach. This is definitely one of them.”


“I heard someone else say that for the first time in their educational life they bit into something and said, ‘Wow, this tastes good.’ I feel the same.”



“So impressed by the leadership and enthusiasm in all four schools. We will take this experience, think about it, and make changes in our school right away. IDEA is a powerful catalyst.”




“I learned that progressive education is about improvement. None of the four schools were conformist. All want to be better. I liked the selections of different approaches, at different levels, and working with different populations. I will remember how everyone was so warm and that we created a real learning community.”

How can our school be considered for selection as an Innovation Tour destination?
Who do I contact for more information about tours?

Contact us at tours@democraticeducation.org