Live Online Policy Forum 

# Education Reimagined: A Conversation with Kerry McDonald on *Joyful Learning*

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Date and Time 

November 7, 2025 12 - 1 PM EST 

Location 

Live Online 

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##### Featuring 

[![Kerry-McDonald-cropped.jpg ](/sites/cato.org/files/styles/author_picture/public/2019-10/Kerry-McDonald-cropped.jpg?itok=9Tl9CbTD)](/people/kerry-mcdonald) 

[Kerry McDonald](/people/kerry-mcdonald)

Adjunct Scholar 

[ 

](https://twitter.com/Kerry_edu) 

[![Colleen Hroncich cropped](/sites/cato.org/files/styles/author_picture/public/2025-06/Colleen%20Hroncich%20cropped.jpg?itok=OWGarcCl)](/people/colleen-hroncich) 

[Colleen Hroncich](/people/colleen-hroncich)

Policy Analyst, Cato Institute

[ 

](https://x.com/ColleenHroncich) [ 

](mailto:chroncich@cato.org) 

Are you wondering how to spark more joy and curiosity in your child’s learning—or how to make education work better for your students? In her new book, *Joyful Learning*, Kerry McDonald shares inspiring stories of families and educators who are reimagining education through microschools, pods, and other creative approaches. In this one-on-one conversation, McDonald will answer your questions and share practical ideas to bring more freedom and happiness to learning. Prepare to explore fresh possibilities for both parents and teachers.

![Joyful Learning cover](/sites/cato.org/files/styles/promo_block_book_cover_1x/public/2025-10/joyful-learning-cover.jpg?itok=V3jKN1Ld) 

##### Featured Book 

### *[Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling](https://www.amazon.com/Joyful-Learning-Happiness-Conventional-Schooling/dp/1541705521?tag=catoinstitute-20)*

Across the United States, parents, teachers, administrators, policymakers, and ordinary citizens are increasingly frustrated by the rigidity and standardization of modern schooling, and they are seeking alternatives. Openness to different learning models reached new heights during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to accelerate.

[Purchase Book](https://www.amazon.com/Joyful-Learning-Happiness-Conventional-Schooling/dp/1541705521?tag=catoinstitute-20) 

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