How do we envision the future for our schools?

In this episode of Start with Questions, we explore how Mackintosh Academy Littleton, a small independent school in Colorado for gifted learners, is using futures thinking and scenario planning to shape its strategic vision. Annie Slothower, Director of Enrollment Management, shares how the school’s strengths—small class sizes, a strengths-based approach, and an International Baccalaureate curriculum—inform its mission to serve gifted students. Through collaboration with Mount Vernon Ventures consulting team, Mackintosh Academy Littleton explored future scenarios such as becoming a gifted research hub, adopting a nature-technology fusion model, and enhancing personalized learning pathways.Annie Slothower reflects on the process of stepping away from daily demands to focus on long-term goals, emphasizing how the work fostered diverse perspectives and reaffirmed Mackintosh's commitment to its mission. The discussion highlights the value of integrating futures planning into strategic initiatives, offering insights for educators on preparing for opportunities and challenges while staying true to their core purpose.