In April 2022, Packy wrote a Deep Dive on Primer:
https://www.notboring.co/p/primer-the-ambitious-home-for-ambitious
Three years later, a lot has changed. Primer is building schools. The opportunity is both bigger and more challenging than it was then.
In this conversation, Packy and Primer CEO Ryan Delk discuss the need to fix in K-12 education. Ryan shares insights on Primer's transition from a software-focused company to a vertically integrated Microschool model. He also addresses regulatory hurdles, the market potential for innovative educational solutions, and the vision for making quality education accessible to all families.
If you want to build a vertically integrated company to solve a really big, important problem, you need to listen to this.
Takeaways
K-12 education reform is a civilizationally important issue.
Primer aims to tackle the hardest problems in education.
The transition to microschools was driven by the need for a more effective educational model.
Regulatory challenges are significant but can be overcome with strategic action.
The market for education is vast, with opportunities for innovation.
Primer's microschool model aims to provide quality education at a lower cost.
The importance of community involvement in launching new schools.
AI and software can significantly improve educational outcomes.
The future of education will involve diverse options for families.
Investors are increasingly supportive of innovative education solutions.
Chapters
00:00The Importance of K-12 Education Reform
02:18The Shift from Software to Microschools
04:04The Pivot to Microschools
06:28Building a New Education Model
09:03Scaling and Integrating Education Solutions
11:43Balancing Control and Innovation in Education
14:18The Role of Software in Education
17:15Future of Education and Personalization
21:56The Future of Education Funding
24:14AI Tutors and Their Limitations
26:12The Shift in Educational Structures Post-COVID
28:59Addressing Concerns About School Choice
31:19Breaking the Narrative of Private Schools
33:58The Vision for Free Education
36:49Navigating the Incumbent Education System
39:15Market Opportunities in Education
41:19The Future Landscape of Education
43:09Growth Projections for Primer