Alphas Activate - Internal Brief

CONFIDENTIAL - FOR INTERNAL COLLABORATORS ONLY
Last Updated: May 26, 2025

Event Overview

Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Alpha School Austin (201 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701)

An invite-only summit for the people most capable of making a global educational renaissance a reality.

A celebration of what it means to be first, to lead, to be exceptional; and of those who take ownership of their family's future.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• An uncensored assessment on the state of education (and the world) by MacKenzie Price
• A showcase on the future of education by the Alpha Schools team and students
• Live demos of world leading education tech

THIS IS EXCLUSIVELY FOR

Those ready to be the tip of the spear of America's educational renaissance

(Kids and spouses are welcome!)

A Dual Experience for Maximum Impact:

• Parents and high school students engage with visionary speakers, exploring the future of education through thought-provoking talks and discussions
• K-8 students immerse themselves in hands-on learning zones throughout the building, experiencing Alpha's educational philosophy in action
• The entire campus comes alive with activity, showcasing what makes Alpha education transformative

Through this parallel programming approach, parents can fully focus on strategic conversations about their children's future while knowing their younger children are engaged in supervised, inspiring activities just steps away.

With professional security ensuring an exclusive, safe environment, only invited guests will be part of this transformative experience. Every detail reinforces that this is not just another education event - it's an initiation into a movement.

Extended Networking & Tours: 5:30-8:00 PM with premium hors d'oeuvres

RSVP Required This is an invitation-only event with limited capacity.

If you didn't receive an invitation but feel you should have, text Gary Sheng at (630) 240-4545

CONFIDENTIAL - FOR INVITED FAMILIES ONLY

Strategic Objectives

Primary Objectives

1. Educational Renaissance Leadership: Position Alpha and its community as "the tip of the spear of America's educational renaissance" by convening influential leaders and stakeholders.
2. Force Multiplier Effect: Leverage the summit as a force multiplier by inviting "the tips of all these different ecosystems" to disseminate Alpha's vision within their powerful networks.
3. Stakeholder Engagement & Activation: Brief influential people of Austin and beyond on Alpha's mission, showcasing student work and facilitating direct connections to inspire action and further invitations within their ecosystems.
4. High-Value Network Growth: Create a high-value network of powerful individuals and facilitate immediate introductions and follow-ups with each attendee.
5. Showcase Alpha's Vision: Clearly present an overview of what Alpha is doing, with students and their work on display, to impress and inform affluent, powerful, and influential attendees.

Secondary Objectives

• Demonstrate Alpha's innovative educational approach to a highly receptive, pre-qualified audience of influential leaders.
• Create a replicable summit model focused on engaging powerful stakeholders that can be scaled to other cities.
• Generate powerful endorsements and create pathways for collaboration with influential individuals and organizations.
• Build deep relationships with leaders who have the resources, influence, and mindset to champion Alpha's vision.
• Position Alpha as the go-to partner for transformative educational initiatives among elite leaders and organizations.

Target Audiences & Engagement Strategy

Audience Profile: Influential Leaders & Stakeholders

Invitation-Only, Curated Group of Powerful Individuals

• Influential people of Austin and beyond: founders, leaders of organizations, Capital Factory director, church leaders, etc.
• Individuals capable of being "force multipliers" into different ecosystems.
• Representatives of key figures who cannot attend personally.
• Stakeholders in powerful ecosystems who can be activated to invite more stakeholders.
• Affluent, powerful, and influential individuals who will talk to their friends about the summit.
• Broader community members who are key connectors or hold significant influence.
• People with strong networks (evaluating "power in their room network and also second degree").

Invitation Strategy

Personal, Relationship-Driven Approach to Key Influencers

• Direct Personal Invitations: Each potential attendee receives a personalized invitation through trusted relationships or direct outreach from organizers.
• Curated Guest List: Focus on inviting the "powerful people of Austin" and other key influencers. If a primary target cannot attend, invite their representative.
• Call to Action for Further Invitations: Encourage attendees to invite other stakeholders from their powerful ecosystems.
• Relationship-Based Selection: Attendees are invited based on their influence and potential to act as force multipliers.
• RSVP Process: Simple acceptance process that confirms attendance and allows for tracking of "immediate introductions" post-event.

Registration & Check-in Protocol

Exclusive Invitation Management

• Curated Guest List: Maintain a visible spreadsheet of confirmed influential attendees and their affiliations.
• Personal Invitations: Each guest receives a unique, non-transferable invitation.
• RSVP Platform: Gary will consult his network of top event tech experts to identify the perfect platform that captures the exclusive, high-stakes nature of this briefing.
• Guest Verification: Strict guest list enforcement - no walk-ins or uninvited attendees, though representatives are welcome if pre-arranged.
• Attendee Pre-Qualification: All invitees pre-screened for their influence and network reach.

Invitation-Only Registration

• By Invitation Only: No public registration - access requires personal invitation.
• Attendee Details: Comprehensive profiles collected during RSVP, focusing on network and areas of influence.
• Invitation Source Tracking: System tracks how attendees were identified and invited (e.g., direct outreach, referral from another leader).
• Special Recognition: Key stakeholders and their representatives receive unique welcome materials.
• Waitlist Management: Limited waitlist for highly qualified individuals if capacity allows.

Summit Check-in Experience

• VIP Welcome: Personal greeting for each attendee with name and affiliation recognition.
• Exclusive Materials: Premium briefing packets befitting the summit's high-level audience.
• Dedicated Concierge: Staff to ensure each attendee's experience is exceptional and to facilitate introductions.
• Private Tours: Pre-scheduled, intimate campus tours focusing on student showcases and tech demos.

Featured Speakers, Entertainment & Experiential Learning Zones

Parallel Programming Approach

To create an optimal experience for all attendees, we're implementing a dual-track approach:

• Main Briefing & Showcase: Designed for influential leaders, featuring an uncensored assessment by MacKenzie Price, a showcase on the future of education by Alpha Schools team and students, and live demos of world-leading education tech.
• Experiential Zones & Student Interaction: Opportunities for attendees to see Alpha's educational philosophy in action, with students on display.
• Full Building Activation: The entire Alpha School campus will be alive with activity, creating an immersive experience.
• Dedicated Support Staff: Trained guides and facilitators to manage showcases and demos.

Confirmed/Target Speakers & Showcases

• MacKenzie Price: Delivering an uncensored assessment on the state of education (and the world).
• Alpha Schools Team & Students: Presenting a showcase on the future of education.
• Live Demos: World-leading education technology will be demonstrated.
• Alpha Students & Alumni: Showcasing their projects and transformative educational experiences (e.g., coaching apps, AI-generated marketing, running apps, skincare brands). This is a key element – "have the students on display."

Experiential Learning Zones (Showcasing Alpha in Action)

• Future of Education Showcase: Interactive space demonstrating Alpha's approach.
• Student Project Demos: Stations where students present their work (e.g., Alex Mathew's AI pages, Cruce Saunders' running app, Ella Gremont's Club Studios).
• Education Tech Hub: Live demonstrations of leading educational technologies used at Alpha.
• Networking Zones: Facilitated areas for attendees to connect with each other and Alpha leadership.

Programming Structure

• Arrival & Check-in (2:00-2:30 PM): Registration, welcome materials, and initial exploration of experiential zones
• Visionary Welcome (2:30 PM): Setting the tone for reimagining education's future
• Multi-Perspective Speaker Series (3:00-5:00 PM): Note: Some speakers may host interactive stations around campus rather than formal presentations
  • Alpha Guides & School Leaders:
    • Chris Locke (Head of High School, Alpha School Austin): Sharing insights on innovative high school education and student success stories
    • Stefanie Baduria (Head of K-8, Alpha Schools): Presenting on scaling innovative education and guide training excellence
    • Jawaan Delaney (Lead Guide, Alpha Middle School Austin): Demonstrating middle school innovation and student development
    • Jack Oremus (Guide, Alpha School Austin): Presenting on student motivation, AI integration in education, and the future of learning
  • School leaders from Austin campuses sharing local success stories
  • National innovative school leaders presenting broader perspectives
  • Student & Alumni Showcase:
    • Sloane Price: Sharing her coaching app development and confidence script that has helped many people
    • Elle Liemandt: Discussing her international experience and insights on education innovation
    • Maddie Price: Presenting her perspective as a student navigating traditional and innovative education
    • Alex Mathew: Showcasing his AI-generated marketing pages and Build-A-Bear masterpiece project
    • Cruce Saunders: Sharing his running app development and journey from traditional to innovative education
    • Ella Gremont: Presenting Club Studios, her skincare brand for sporty women (10,000+ followers, $1,000 raised, 800,000 monthly reach)
  • Values-aligned community leaders on education's role in society
  • Entrepreneurs sharing ideal K-12 education design
• Continuous Experiential Zones: All learning spaces active throughout event with rotating demonstrations
• Takeaway Distribution Points: Scheduled times for collecting physical resources and accessing digital materials
• Imagination Activation Sessions: Guided exercises helping families envision their educational future
• Closing Transformation Moment (5:15-5:30 PM): Collective experience cementing hope and next steps for educational change
• Extended Networking & Tours (5:30-8:00 PM): Premium hors d'oeuvres, intimate campus tours, and casual conversations to deepen relationships among Alpha families

Security & Access Control

Exclusive Access Protocols

• Perimeter Security: Professional security team ensuring only invited guests enter the campus
• Check-in Verification: Every attendee verified against the exclusive guest list - absolutely no exceptions
• Wristband System: Non-transferable wristbands for all family members upon check-in
• Zone Monitors: Security personnel stationed at all building access points
• Child Safety: All K-8 activity zones monitored by background-checked staff
• Parent Peace of Mind: Parents can fully engage in talks knowing their children are in secure, supervised environments

Venue Layout

• Main Presentation Area: Dynamic stage for entrepreneurs sharing their ideal K-12 education design
• Future of Education Room: Immersive space with interactive displays and visioning exercises
• Science Experimentation Lab: Equipped with materials for hands-on experiments
• Fashion Design Workshop: Tables, materials, and tools for fashion brand creation, hosted by Sam Gregor (Alpha Activator, Founder of Mind Liquid fashion house)
• Music & Vinyl Listening Room: Acoustic space with instruments and recording equipment, hosted by Gregory Beef Jones (Alpha Activator, Austin record store owner and music industry connector)
• Entrepreneurship Hub: Demo stations showcasing student businesses and projects
• Merchandise Station: Premium Alpha-branded items creating community affinity
• Resource Center: Physical takeaway materials and digital resource sign-ups
• Video Documentation Stations: Capturing parent reactions and student experiences
• Registration Checkpoint: Streamlined verification process with immediate data capture

Invitation & Outreach Strategy

The "Meta Spark Plugs" Approach

Identify and leverage key relationship holders and influential figures ("powerful people of Austin," "tips of all these different ecosystems") to create a targeted, high-impact invitation process. The goal is to convene a room of individuals who will act as force multipliers for Alpha's vision.

Phase 1: Identify Key Influencers & Network Hubs

Primary Targets:

• MacKenzie Price & Joe Liemandt: Founders with broad networks and deep influence.
• Leaders of Powerful Austin Ecosystems: e.g., Founder of Speaker Politics, leaders from prominent churches/organizations, Capital Factory Director, etc.
• Existing Alpha Community Leaders: Stefanie Baduria, Chris Locke, Jawaan Delaney – leverage their connections if relevant to reaching external influencers.
• Gary Sheng & Ron Roberts: Event organizers with strategic connections to identify and engage influential people.
• Beef Jones & Team: Utilize their network in the music industry and Austin community to reach relevant influencers.

Secondary Targets:

• Other Alpha guides or staff with connections to influential external figures.
• Board members and key advisors who can facilitate introductions to powerful people.
• Alpha Activators with relevant networks.

Phase 2: Direct Outreach & Strategic Engagement

Targeted Communication with Key Influencers:

• Gary and Ron schedule dedicated time (calls or meetings) with identified key influencers or their representatives.
• Clearly articulate the purpose of "Alphas Activate": a briefing for powerful people to create a force multiplier effect.
• Share the vision for a global educational renaissance and Alpha's role.
• Emphasis on inviting "the tips of all these different ecosystems."

Phase 3: Personal Invitation & "Call to Action"

Gary and Ron's Direct Invitation Campaign:

• Personally invite the identified influential individuals or their designated representatives.
• For each confirmed attendee, discuss and facilitate "immediate introductions" to other relevant contacts within their network, either to invite to this summit or for future engagement.
• This is a critical KPI: "immediate introductions of each attendee and we're going to make sure we're going to follow each of them."
• Frame attendance as an opportunity to be part of an exclusive briefing that will shape the future of education.

Phase 4: Curated Guest Experience

Focus on High-Value Interactions:

• Ensure every invitation and interaction reinforces the exclusivity and importance of the event.
• Plan for how attendees will be showcased and how their "affluent, powerful, influential friends" will hear about Alpha through them.
• Minimal reliance on mass communication; focus on direct, personal, high-touch engagement.

The Multiplication Effect

Expected Outcome:

• A curated room of Austin's (and beyond) most influential people.
• Each attendee acts as a "force multiplier," spreading Alpha's message within their extensive networks.
• Significant "second degree" network reach and high-quality introductions.
• Establishment of Alpha as a key player in the "educational renaissance" among powerful stakeholders.
• High conversion for follow-up actions due to the caliber and engagement of attendees.

Invitation Messaging

• Initial Contact (Example): "We are convening a select group of Austin's most influential leaders for an exclusive briefing, 'Alphas Activate,' to discuss the future of education and explore how we can collectively drive a global educational renaissance. MacKenzie Price will be sharing an uncensored assessment, and we'll be showcasing the pioneering work of Alpha Schools. We believe your perspective and network would be invaluable."
• Follow-up & Confirmation: Personalized communication confirming details and reiterating the exclusive nature of the briefing.
• Post-Event Engagement: Structured follow-up to secure "immediate introductions" and further collaborations.
• Key Theme: This is a briefing for powerful people, a force multiplier event.

No Public Marketing

• Strictly invitation-only.
• No social media promotion, public announcements, newsletter inclusions, or media outreach.
• Word-of-mouth through targeted, high-level channels only.
• Maintains exclusivity and the "briefing" frame for powerful stakeholders.

Event Design Elements

Venue Layout

• Main Presentation Area: Dynamic stage for entrepreneurs sharing their ideal K-12 education design
• Future of Education Room: Immersive space with interactive displays and visioning exercises
• Science Experimentation Lab: Equipped with materials for hands-on experiments
• Fashion Design Workshop: Tables, materials, and tools for fashion brand creation, hosted by Sam Gregor (Alpha Activator, Founder of Mind Liquid fashion house)
• Music & Vinyl Listening Room: Acoustic space with instruments and recording equipment, hosted by Gregory Beef Jones (Alpha Activator, Austin record store owner and music industry connector)
• Entrepreneurship Hub: Demo stations showcasing student businesses and projects
• Merchandise Station: Premium Alpha-branded items creating community affinity
• Resource Center: Physical takeaway materials and digital resource sign-ups
• Video Documentation Stations: Capturing parent reactions and student experiences
• Registration Checkpoint: Streamlined verification process with immediate data capture

Programming Structure

• Arrival & Check-in (2:00-2:30 PM): Registration, welcome materials, and initial exploration of experiential zones
• Visionary Welcome (2:30 PM): Setting the tone for reimagining education's future
• Multi-Perspective Speaker Series (3:00-5:00 PM): Note: Some speakers may host interactive stations around campus rather than formal presentations
  • Alpha Guides & School Leaders:
    • Chris Locke (Head of High School, Alpha School Austin): Sharing insights on innovative high school education and student success stories
    • Stefanie Baduria (Head of K-8, Alpha Schools): Presenting on scaling innovative education and guide training excellence
    • Jawaan Delaney (Lead Guide, Alpha Middle School Austin): Demonstrating middle school innovation and student development
    • Jack Oremus (Guide, Alpha School Austin): Presenting on student motivation, AI integration in education, and the future of learning
  • School leaders from Austin campuses sharing local success stories
  • National innovative school leaders presenting broader perspectives
  • Student & Alumni Showcase:
    • Sloane Price: Sharing her coaching app development and confidence script that has helped many people
    • Elle Liemandt: Discussing her international experience and insights on education innovation
    • Maddie Price: Presenting her perspective as a student navigating traditional and innovative education
    • Alex Mathew: Showcasing his AI-generated marketing pages and Build-A-Bear masterpiece project
    • Cruce Saunders: Sharing his running app development and journey from traditional to innovative education
    • Ella Gremont: Presenting Club Studios, her skincare brand for sporty women (10,000+ followers, $1,000 raised, 800,000 monthly reach)
  • Values-aligned community leaders on education's role in society
  • Entrepreneurs sharing ideal K-12 education design
• Continuous Experiential Zones: All learning spaces active throughout event with rotating demonstrations
• Takeaway Distribution Points: Scheduled times for collecting physical resources and accessing digital materials
• Imagination Activation Sessions: Guided exercises helping families envision their educational future
• Closing Transformation Moment (5:15-5:30 PM): Collective experience cementing hope and next steps for educational change
• Extended Networking & Tours (5:30-8:00 PM): Premium hors d'oeuvres, intimate campus tours, and casual conversations to deepen relationships among Alpha families

Measurement & Success Metrics

Key Performance Indicators

• Attendance of Key Influencers: % of targeted influential leaders/representatives attending.
• Network Activation: Number of "immediate introductions" facilitated from attendees to their networks. Track follow-ups. (Self-accountable KPI for organizers).
• "Force Multiplier" Reach: Qualitative and (if possible) quantitative assessment of how information/enthusiasm spreads through attendees' ecosystems.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Level of active participation, questions, and expressed interest in collaboration during and after the summit.
• Post-Summit Actions: Number of follow-up meetings, partnerships, or commitments resulting from the briefing.
• Quality of Connections: Evaluation of the "power in their room network and also second degree" connections made.

Exclusivity Metrics

• Invitation Acceptance Rate: Track acceptance from high-profile invitees.
• Demand from Influencers: Unsolicited interest from other powerful individuals to attend future briefings.
• Endorsements: Public or private endorsements from influential attendees.
• Media Interest (if any, earned, not sought): Any organic media buzz generated by the high-profile gathering.
• Social Proof: Testimonials from attendees about the impact and importance of the briefing.

Long-term Impact Metrics

• Influence on Educational Landscape: Measurable impact on policy, investment, or public discourse stemming from collaborations initiated at the summit.
• Strategic Partnerships: Formation of high-impact partnerships with organizations represented by attendees.
• Expansion of Alpha's Influence: Growth in Alpha's reach and reputation within powerful ecosystems.
• Brand Positioning: Alpha established as a leading voice and innovator, sought out by influential figures for insights on education.

Implementation Timeline

Immediate Actions (By May 24)

• ✓ Event date confirmed: June 14, 2025
• Finalize event narrative and positioning (emphasizing exclusive "Alphas Activate" briefing for influential leaders).
• Gary to consult top event tech experts for exclusive platform recommendations
• Create Shadow Day registration workflow
• Establish team communication channels
• Confirm participation from Alpha guides, school leaders, and students

Week 1 (May 25-31)

• Influencer Identification & Outreach: Gary and Ron identify and begin outreach to key influential figures in Austin and beyond.
• Briefing Materials Preparation: Develop high-quality materials for the "Alphas Activate" briefing.
• Direct Influencer Outreach: Gary and Ron begin intensive personal call/meeting campaign with identified influential leaders.
• Confirm featured speaker schedules and topics
• Train staff on exclusive check-in procedures

Week 2 (June 1-7)

• Influencer Confirmation & Logistics: Gary and Ron confirm attendance of key influencers and coordinate any specific needs.
• "Immediate Introductions" Strategy: Plan how to facilitate and track introductions from attendees to their networks.
• Constant Engagement: Gary and Ron maintain communication with confirmed attendees to build anticipation and reiterate value.
• Confirm speech schedule and tour guides
• Secure all logistical elements for exclusive summit experience
• Test exclusive registration and check-in workflows

Week 3 (June 8-14)

• Implement final promotional push
• Complete venue preparation (including family-friendly zones and decor)
• Conduct final coordination with all speakers/partners/vendors
• Prepare registration/check-in stations
• Finalize on-site staffing for registration verification

Budget Considerations

Revenue Opportunities

• Sponsor contributions (in-kind and financial)
• Food vendor participation fees (potential)
• Premium experience upgrades
• Follow-up product/service offerings

Expense Categories

• Venue preparation and enhancement
• Speaker honorariums/accommodations
• Marketing and promotional materials
• Staff/volunteer support
• Food and refreshments (premium catering for exclusive summit)
• Technology and production elements
• Professional videography and editing
• Exclusive event platform subscription and setup (pending Gary's tech expert recommendations)
• Premium summit experience elements and materials
• Professional security team and access control systems
• Activity zone facilitators and child supervision staff
• Safety equipment (wristbands, check-in systems)