400 employees. 96% satisfaction rate. See how Newsela united their nationwide team during a critical CEO transition through one strategic retreat in San Diego.
As a leading ed-tech company dedicated to transforming K–12 instruction, Newsela has always focused on bringing engaging, relevant content into classrooms. But with teams distributed nationwide - and a pivotal transition, as the outgoing CEO passed the torch to new leadership -Newsela’s executive team saw the perfect opportunity to bring everyone together in person.
They needed their company kick-off to unite departments, reaffirm the organization’s mission, and set a clear path forward. Above all, they wanted an offsite that would foster both cultural connection and professional alignment without sacrificing the practical, budget-conscious mindset that guides Newsela’s work.
That’s where Flok came in.
Flok’s extensive knowledge of destinations, venues and negotiation expertise proved invaluable.Identifying a single venue that could comfortably host 400 attendees for keynotes, breakouts, and off-hours activities was no small task. Flok secured Loews Coronado Bay Resort, a property that balanced scenic views, ample meeting space, and competitive rates - a particularly important point for a mission-driven company looking to maximize impact while respecting the bottom line.
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This offsite had a clear focus: ensuring that the entire team rallied around the company’s mission and strategic direction. Hosting the retreat at Loews Coronado Bay Resort gave attendees a breathtaking coastal setting that sparked fresh thinking and meaningful dialogue.
With Flok’s help, Newsela designed sessions that combined practical insights, open Q&A with both the outgoing and incoming CEOs, and team-building activities that fostered camaraderie across departments.
Post-retreat surveys revealed that 96% of attendees found the experience both valuable and energizing. From hearing the outgoing CEO’s reflections to rallying behind the new CEO’s vision for growth, employees left with a renewed commitment to Newsela’s mission and a clear understanding of the path forward. Insights gathered from team discussions informed next-step action plans across product development, marketing, and customer support—laying the groundwork for tangible, unified progress.
With Flok’s meticulous planning and a focus on purpose-driven design, Newsela’s inaugural retreat proved that thoughtful strategy and a carefully selected venue can turn a pivotal leadership transition into a company-wide catalyst for unity.
Learn how Flok's strategic event design can catalyze change in your organization.
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