20 Years of Starfish Education – Moving Forward into the FutureJoin us in celebrating 20 years of meaningful learning for a future that everyone can access.

Starfish Education
Jul 18
3 min read

Updated: Jul 21

Starfish Education commemorates its 20th anniversary of advancing Thai education through the event “20 Years of Starfish Education,” held on July 15, 2025 at Starfish Hub, Bangkok, and on July 17, 2025 at Starfish School, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai.

From Humble Beginnings to National and Global Impact

2005: Founded as the Starfish Country Home School Foundation by Dr. Richard P. Haugland to provide opportunities for underprivileged children.
2006: Opened Starfish Country Home School in Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, along with a Starfish Children's Home projects in Chiang Mai.
2007: Developed the 3R Innovation (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic) by Dr. Richard P. Haugland.
2010: The first cohort of Grade 6 students graduated—Opening of a Children's Home Project in Chiang Rai.
2011: Launched the Starfish Day Care Center in Bangkok.
2012: Launched the LifePrep Foundation, a registered non-profit organization in Samut Sakhon, established to promote educational opportunities.
2013: Launched the Chiang Mai Starfish Learning Center.
2015: The 10th anniversary of the founding of the Starfish Country Home School Foundation marks a decade of unwavering commitment to advancing education for every child.
2016: A Vision Takes Root: Dr. Richard P. Haugland and Dr. Prae Seributra joined forces to shape Starfish Education. That same year, Dr. Prae became President, ushering in a new era of innovation, equity, and impact.
2017–2018: Launched Starfish Maker (STEAM Makerspace) and Starfish Labz, an online learning platform for teachers and students.
2019: Launched Starfish Class, a competency assessment tool that reflects students’ potential in real-world contexts.
2022: Expanded Makerspace to over 100 schools nationwide.
2023: Organized FutureED Fest, an education innovation festival for transformation.
2024: Starfish School was selected as one of the top 3 schools in the world for the World’s Best School Prize – Innovation.
2025: Partnered with the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) in the Future Youth Thailand project to develop future skills for Thai youth.

Over the past two decades, Starfish Education has upheld the belief that “every child has potential—if we build the right environment for them.” Inspired by the Starfish Story and the vision of founder Dr. Richard Paul “Dick” Haugland.

The past 20 years have been just the beginning. The decades ahead represent an opportunity for *all of us* to build on this foundation—expanding opportunities, creating accessible learning spaces, and continuing to innovate without pause.

This 20th anniversary celebration is not only a reflection on past achievements, but also a tribute to the beginnings, intentions, and inspirations of the many individuals who have played a role in driving Starfish Education forward—leading to national policy influence, practical impact, and the organization’s first steps onto the global stage.

Reflecting on 20 Years of Transformation

This anniversary celebration is not only a time to reflect on our achievements but also a moment to remember our roots.

Voices of Change from Our Founding Leaders

Mr. Francesco Caruso – Principal of Firetree Group.

Dr. Nanthaporn Seributra, President of Starfish Education Foundation and CEO of Starfish Education.

They will reflect on the early steps, inspiration, and lessons learned.

Reflections for the Future

"Today is a truly special occasion as we come together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Starfish Education Foundation—an organization that has been steadfast in its mission to drive meaningful and sustainable change in Thai education. Over the past two decades, Starfish has proven that real transformation doesn’t always have to start with something big. It can begin with small actions within our reach. And when pursued with consistency and intention, those small actions can generate a profound and lasting impact on society.”

This moment also brings together voices from government partners and social organizations—key players in shaping policy, innovation, and educational development—who have worked hand-in-hand to co-create a meaningful learning ecosystem through shared vision, collaboration, and collective action.

Over 150 Changemakers Joined Us

The event brings together representatives from the government, civil society, teachers, alumni, students, and parents from over 50 networks across the country—each one a true “companion on the journey” who has played a vital role in advancing sustainable education over the past two decades.