ReportWire

Tag: future

  • More teens are using summer for college and career prep

    Key points:

    The academic landscape has evolved dramatically, especially when it comes to summers. More students are embracing year-round learning to build strong study habits and develop the critical thinking, application, and retention skills they need for success in higher education and the workplace. They’re treating AP®, SAT®, and ACT® practice and preparation as long-term investments rather than temporary obligations where they are last-minute cramming for these high-stakes exams.

    Trends and research support this approach. The Pew Research Center found that 36.6 percent of U.S. teens had a paying job during the summer of 2021–the highest rate since 2008. According to their research, 86 percent of U.S. teens say having a job or career they enjoy is extremely or very important, and 58 percent say having a lot of money is highly important. Their drive for meaningful, financially secure careers is reshaping how they spend their time, especially during the summer.

    Beyond earning money, today’s teens are using their summers for skill development through jobs, internships, and academic prep. This dual focus on work and learning shows maturity and foresight. Students are preparing not just for the next school year but for the professional expectations they’ll face later in life.

    What the Surge Says About Student Ambition

    This rising engagement in AP coursework aligns with a broader cultural shift toward early academic specialization. Students see AP coursework as more than a way to earn college credit. It’s the first step into their intended career path.

    • Future healthcare professionals are diving into AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, and AP Psychology as early tests of their aptitude for the MCAT® and various medical fields.
    • Aspiring attorneys and policymakers turn to AP Government and AP U.S. History to build knowledge of our legislative and judicial foundations, as well as analytical and writing skills.
    • Future accountants, entrepreneurs, and business people gravitate toward AP Calculus, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Statistics to develop quantitative fluency and business reasoning.

    The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that six in 10 teens say graduating from college is extremely or very important to getting a good job. Many recognize that advanced coursework in high school can make college more manageable and scholarships to their dream schools more attainable.

    The rise in AP participation isn’t just academic enthusiasm. It’s strategic planning. Students are approaching high school as a career laboratory where they can test their interests, gauge their strengths, and start aligning their goals with future opportunities.

    Summer as the new launchpad

    For this generation, the summer is a launchpad, not a pause. Teens are blending part-time work with academic enrichment, community involvement, and skill-building activities that align with their future ambitions. Many see the summer as the perfect window to study at their own pace, without the pressure of a full course load or extracurricular overload. 

    More students are using summer break strategically to strengthen their understanding and prepare for challenging AP and SAT content. This behavior echoes findings from Pew’s 2025 survey: Teens are more focused on professional and financial success than on traditional milestones such as marriage and family life. They’re motivated by the pursuit of independence, stability, and purpose, values that translate directly into how they approach school and learning.

    When I talk to students, what stands out is how intentional they are. They want to be prepared, and they want options. They see every AP class and every practice question as one step closer to a career that excites them, and a future they can control.

    From short-term learning to lifelong skills

    This trend toward early preparation also reflects a shift in how students define success. They understand that knowledge alone isn’t enough; the ability to apply, adapt, and persist will carry them through college and into their careers.

    With the research in mind, educators and edtech tools must prioritize active learning over memorization. By helping students understand the why behind each step, not just the correct answer, we build the problem-solving and analytical reasoning skills that mirror the expectations in fields more students are pursuing, including medicine, law, engineering, and business.

    The Future Belongs to the Prepared

    The surge in AP course engagement this summer isn’t an anomaly. It’s a glimpse into the future of learning, and we see that as a positive sign. Students are no longer waiting for senior year or college to take their goals seriously. They’re taking ownership of their learning, developing study skills that extend far beyond exams, and connecting their academic effort to real-world ambition. They’re not just preparing for tests; they’re preparing for life.

    High school may be where lifelong learning begins, but for this generation, it’s also where futures are built.

    Laura Ascione
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    Philip Bates, UWorld 

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  • Students must intentionally develop durable skills to thrive in an AI-dominated world

    Key points:

    As AI increasingly automates technical tasks across industries, students’ long-term career success will rely less on technical skills alone and more on durable skills or professional skills, often referred to as soft skills. These include empathy, resilience, collaboration, and ethical reasoning–skills that machines can’t replicate.

    This critical need is outlined in Future-Proofing Students: Professional Skills in the Age of AI, a new report from Acuity Insights. Drawing on a broad body of academic and market research, the report provides an analysis of how institutions can better prepare students with the professional skills most critical in an AI-driven world.

    Key findings from the report:

    • 75 percent of long-term job success is attributed to professional skills, not technical expertise.
    • Over 25 percent of executives say they won’t hire recent graduates due to lack of durable skills.
    • COVID-19 disrupted professional skill development, leaving many students underprepared for collaboration, communication, and professional norms.
    • Eight essential durable skills must be intentionally developed for students to thrive in an AI-driven workplace.

    “Technical skills may open the door, but it’s human skills like empathy and resilience that endure over time and lead to a fruitful and rewarding career,” says Matt Holland, CEO at Acuity Insights. “As AI reshapes the workforce, it has become critical for higher education to take the lead in preparing students with these skills that will define their long-term success.”

    The eight critical durable skills include:

    • Empathy
    • Teamwork
    • Communication
    • Motivation
    • Resilience
    • Ethical reasoning
    • Problem solving
    • Self-awareness

    These competencies don’t expire with technology–they grow stronger over time, helping graduates adapt, lead, and thrive in an AI-driven world.

    The report also outlines practical strategies for institutions, including assessing non-academic skills at admissions using Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs), and shares recommendations on embedding professional skills development throughout curricula and forming partnerships that bridge AI literacy with interpersonal and ethical reasoning.

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    ESchool Media Contributors

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  • Why early STEAM education unlocks the future for all learners

    Key points:

    When we imagine the future of America’s workforce, we often picture engineers, coders, scientists, and innovators tackling the challenges of tomorrow. However, the truth is that a student’s future does not begin in a college classroom, or even in high school–it starts in the earliest years of a child’s education.

    Early exposure to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) builds the foundation for critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. Research indicates that children introduced to STEAM concepts before the age of eight are significantly more likely to pursue STEM-related fields later in life. Yet for too many children, especially neurodivergent learners and those in underserved communities, STEAM education comes too late or not at all. That gap represents a missed opportunity not only for those children, but also for the industries and communities that will rely on their talents in the future.

    The missed opportunity in early education

    In most school systems, STEAM instruction ramps up in middle school or high school, long after the formative years when children are naturally most curious and open to exploring. By waiting until later grades, we miss the chance to harness early curiosity, which is the spark that drives innovation.

    This late introduction disproportionately affects children with disabilities or learning differences. These learners often benefit from structured, hands-on exploration and thrive when provided with tools to connect abstract concepts to real-world applications. Without early access, they may struggle to build confidence or see themselves as capable contributors to fields like aerospace, technology, or engineering. If STEAM employers fail to cultivate neurodivergent learners, they miss out on theirunique problem-solving skills, specialized strengths, and diverse thinking that drives true innovation. Beyond shrinking the talent pipeline, this oversight risks stalling progress in fields like aerospace, energy, and technology while weakening their competitive edge.

    The result is a long-term underrepresentation of neurodivergent individuals in high-demand, high-paying fields. Without access to an early STEAM curriculum, both neurodivergent students and employers will miss opportunities for advancement.

    Why neurodivergent learners benefit most

    Neurodivergent learners, such as children with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, often excel when lessons are tactile, visual, and inquiry-based. Early STEAM education naturally aligns with these learning styles. For example, building a simple bridge with blocks is more than play; it’s an exercise in engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork. Programming a toy robot introduces logic, sequencing, and cause-and-effect.

    These types of early STEAM experiences also support executive functioning, improve social-emotional development, and build persistence. These are crucial skills in STEM careers, where theories often fail, and continued experimentation is necessary. Additionally, building these skills helps children see themselves as creators and innovators rather than passive participants in their education.

    When neurodivergent children are given access to STEAM at an early age, they are not only better equipped academically but also more confident in their ability to belong in spaces that have traditionally excluded them.

    Houston as a case study

    Here in Houston, we recognize the importance of early STEAM education in shaping our collective future. As the world’s Energy Capital and a hub for aerospace innovation, Houston’s economy will continue to rely on the next generation of thinkers, builders and problem-solvers. That pipeline begins not in a university laboratory, but in preschool classrooms and afterschool programs.

    At Collaborative for Children, we’ve seen this firsthand through our Collab-Lab, a mobile classroom that brings hands-on STEAM experiences to underserved neighborhoods. In these spaces, children experiment with coding, explore engineering principles, and engage in collaborative problem-solving long before they reach middle school. For neurodivergent learners in particular, the Collab-Lab provides an environment where curiosity is encouraged, mistakes are celebrated as part of the learning process, and every child has the chance to succeed. Additionally, we are equipping the teachers in our 125 Centers of Excellence throughout the city in practical teaching modalities for neurodivergent learners. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all students.

    Our approach demonstrates what is possible when early childhood education is viewed not just as childcare, but as workforce development. If we can prioritize early STEAM access in Houston, other cities across the country can also expand access for all students.

    A national priority

    To prepare America’s workforce for the challenges ahead, we must treat early STEAM education as a national priority. This requires policymakers, educators and industry leaders to collaborate in new and meaningful ways.

    Here are three critical steps we must take:

    1. Expand funding and resources for early STEAM curriculum. Every preschool and early elementary program should have access to inquiry-based materials that spark curiosity in young learners.
    2. Ensure inclusion of neurodivergent learners in program design. Curricula and classrooms must reflect diverse learning needs so that all children, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to engage fully.
    3. Forge stronger partnerships between early education and industry. Employers in aerospace, energy, and technology should see investment in early childhood STEAM as part of their long-term workforce strategy.

    The stakes are high. If we delay STEAM learning until later grades, we risk leaving behind countless children and narrowing the talent pipeline that will fuel our nation’s most critical industries. But if we act early, we unlock not just potential careers, but potential lives filled with confidence, creativity and contribution.

    Closing thoughts

    The innovators of tomorrow are sitting in preschool classrooms today. They are building with blocks, asking “why,” and imagining worlds we cannot yet see. Among them are children who are neurodivergent–who, with the proper support, may go on to design spacecrafts, engineer renewable energy solutions, or code the next groundbreaking technology.

    If we want a future that is diverse, inclusive, and innovative, the path is clear: We must start with STEAM education in the earliest years, for every child.

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    Dr. Melanie Johnson, Collaborative for Children

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  • MVM Future Talks Takes a Giant Leap to Space With Neil DeGrasse Tyson

    Press Release
    •

    Nov 11, 2025 09:00 EST

    MVM Future Talks 2025 is all about our future in space

    MVM Future Talks, Hungary’s leading free online science series explores the past, present and the future of astronautics this year. In the 2025 edition, world renowned scientist, Neil deGrasse Tyson will also share his insights about the future of space.


    BUDAPEST, Hungary, November 11, 2025 (Newswire.com)
    –
    If we see it, we can get to it – this mindset drives space exploration as well. For nearly seventy years, experts have been working toward the goal of conquering other planets, a pursuit that could eventually become the key to humanity’s survival once Earth’s resources are depleted.

    In the sixth season of MVM Future Talks, the program’s ambassador, popular Hungarian influencer Peti Puskás-Dallos traveled the world to meet experts and dreamers who believe in moonshot thinking-the idea that setting seemingly unattainable goals is absolutely worth it.

    For now, we are sending people into space as part of international projects – but what’s going to happen after we successfully conquer celestial bodies that are still distant and unreachable? Are we going to be able to put aside our differences as nations and represent humanity in space as a whole, or will those who want power for themselves and rule Mars according to their own rules take the lead? Will economic and political struggles continue beyond the Kármán line? And what happens if extraterrestrials join the debate? We discussed these questions with experts on the subject, including philosophers, engineers, space lawyers, and military analysts in an hour-long documentary, which will be released on MVM Zrt.’s YouTube channel in November.

    As always, the series will conclude with a talk show on November 13, where Hungarian celebrity Peti Puskás-Dallos – joined by internationally recognized experts, including Neil deGrasse Tyson, our returning guest – will summarize the knowledge and insights they have gained. Besides Tyson, who will join us for the fourth time this year, a theoretical physicist, space engineer, sci-fi writer and space doctor will also share their insights. Is a space elevator really the key to cheaper and more efficient space travel? Is it really that important to reach the Moon again? How do we solve the problem of food on Mars?

    Viewers can watch the broadcast from 14 November at mvmfuturetalks.com, with live English subtitles.

    Contact Information

    Lounge Communication
    comm@lounge.hu

    Source: MVM

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  • Democratic wins nationwide, a major rebuke of Trump, offer the left hope for 2026

    NEW YORK — At the top of his victory speech at a Brooklyn theater late Tuesday, Zohran Mamdani — the 34-year-old democratic socialist just elected New York’s next mayor — spoke of power being gripped by the bruised and calloused hands of working Americans, away from the wealthy elite.

    “Tonight, against all odds, we have grasped it,” he said. “The future is in our hands.”

    The imagery was apropos of the night more broadly — when a beaten-down Democratic Party, still nursing its wounds from a wipeout by President Trump a year ago, forcefully took back what some had worried was lost to them for good: momentum.

    From coast to coast Tuesday night, American voters delivered a sharp rebuke to Trump and his MAGA movement, electing Democrats in important state and local races in New York, New Jersey and Virginia and passing a major California ballot measure designed to put more Democrats in Congress in 2026.

    The results — a reversal of the party’s fortunes in last year’s presidential election, when Trump swept the nation’s swing states — arrived amid deep political division and entrenched Republican power in Washington. Many voters cited Trump’s agenda, and related economic woes, as motivating their choices at the ballot box.

    The wins hardly reflected a unified Democratic Party nationally, or even a shared left-wing vision for a future beyond Trump. If anything, Mamdani’s win was a challenge to the Democratic Party establishment as much as a rejection of Trump.

    His vision for the future is decidedly different than that of other, more moderate Democrats who won elsewhere in the country, such as Abigail Spanberger, the 46-year-old former CIA officer whom Virginians elected as their first female governor, or Mikie Sherrill, the 53-year-old former Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor who won the race for New Jersey governor.

    Still, the cascade of victories did evoke for many Democrats and progressives a political hope that they hadn’t felt in a while: a sense of optimism that Trump and his MAGA movement aren’t unstoppable after all, and that their own party’s ability to resist isn’t just alive and well but gaining speed.

    “Let me underscore, it’s been a good evening — for everybody, not just the Democratic Party. But what a night for the Democratic Party,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said during his own remarks on the national wins. “A party that is in its ascendancy, a party that’s on its toes, no longer on its heels.”

    “I hope it’s the first of many dominoes that are going to happen across this country,” Noah Gotlib, 29, of Bushwick said late Tuesday at a victory party for Mamdani. “I hope there’s a hundred more Zohrans at a local, state, federal level.”

    On a night of big wins, Mamdani’s nonetheless stood out as a thunderbolt from the progressive left — a full-throated rejection not just of Trump but of Mamdani’s mainstream Democratic opponent in the race: former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

    Mamdani — a Muslim, Ugandan-born state assemblyman of Indian descent — beat Cuomo first in the Democratic ranked-choice primary in June. Cuomo, bolstered by many of New York’s moneyed interests afraid of Mamdani’s ideas for taxing the rich and spending for the poor, reentered the race as an independent.

    Trump attacked Mamdani time and again as a threat. He said Monday that he would cut off federal funding to New York if Mamdani won. He even took the dramatic step of endorsing Cuomo over Curtis Sliwa, the Republican in the race, in a last-ditch effort to block Mamdani’s stunning political ascent.

    Instead, city voters surged to the polls and delivered Mamdani a resounding win.

    “To see him rise above all of these odds to actually deliver a vision of something that could be better, that was what really attracted me to the [Democratic Socialists of America] in the first place,” said Aminata Hughes, 31, of Harlem, who was dancing at an election-night party when Mamdani was announced the winner.

    “A better world is possible,” the native New Yorker said, “and we’re not used to hearing that from our politicians.”

    In trademark Trump fashion, the president dismissed the wins by his rival party, suggesting they were a result of two factors: the ongoing federal shutdown, which he has blamed on Democrats, and the fact that he wasn’t personally on people’s ballots.

    Stephen Miller, one of Trump’s chief advisors, posted a paragraph to social media outlining the high number of mixed-status immigrant families in New York being impacted by the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown and mass deportation campaign, which Miller has helped lead.

    Democrats in some ways agreed. They pointed to the shutdown and other disruptions to Americans’ safety and financial security as motivating the vote. They pointed to Trump’s immigration tactics as being an affront to hard-working families. And they pointed to Trump himself — not on the ballot but definitely a factor for voters, especially after he threatened to cut off funds to New York if the city voted for Mamdani again.

    “President Trump has threatened New York City if we dare stand up to him. The people of New York came together and we said, ‘You don’t threaten New York,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.). “We’re going to stand up to bullies and thugs in the White House.”

    “Today we said ‘no’ to Donald Trump and ‘yes’ to democracy,” New Jersey Democratic Chair LeRoy J. Jones Jr. told a happy crowd at Sherrill’s watch party.

    “Congratulations to all the Democratic candidates who won tonight. It’s a reminder that when we come together around strong, forward-looking leaders who care about the issues that matter, we can win,” former President Obama wrote on social media. “We’ve still got plenty of work to do, but the future looks a little bit brighter.”

    In addition to winning the New York mayoral and New Jersey and Virginia gubernatorial races, Democrats outperformed Republicans in races across the country. They held several seats on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and won the Virginia attorney general’s race. In California, voters passed Proposition 50, a ballot measure giving state Democrats the power to redraw congressional districts in their favor ahead of next year’s midterms.

    Newsom and other Democrats had made Proposition 50 all about Trump from the beginning, framing it as a direct response to Trump trying to steal power by convincing red states such as Texas to redraw their own congressional lines in favor of Republicans.

    Trump has been direct about trying to shore up Republicans’ slim majority in the House, to help ensure they retain power and are able to block Democrats from thwarting his agenda. And yet, he has suggested California’s own redistricting effort was illegal and a “GIANT SCAM” under “very serious legal and criminal review.”

    Trump had also gone after several of the Democrats who won on Tuesday directly. In addition to Mamdani, Trump tried to paint Spanberger and Sherrill as out-of-touch liberals too, attacking them over some of his favorite wedge issues such as transgender rights, crime and energy costs. Similar messaging was deployed by the candidates’ Republican opponents.

    In some ways, Trump was going out on a political limb, trying to sway elections in blue states where his grip on the electorate is smaller and his influence is often a major motivator for people to get out and vote against him and his allies.

    His weighing in on the races only added to the sense that the Democrats’ wins marked something bigger — a broader repudiation of Trump, and a good sign for Democrats heading into next year’s midterms.

    Marcus LaCroix, 42, who voted for the measure at a polling site in Lomita on Tuesday evening, described it as “a counterpunch” to what he sees as the excesses and overreach of the Trump administration, and Trump’s pressure on red states to redraw their lines.

    “A lot of people are very concerned about the redistricting in Texas,” he said. “But we can actually fight back.”

    Ed Razine, 27, a student who lives in the Bed-Stuy neighborhood of Brooklyn, was in class when he heard Mamdani won. Soon, he was celebrating with friends at Nowadays, a Bushwick dance club hosting an election watch party.

    Razine said Mamdani’s win represented a “new dawn” in American politics that he hopes will spread to other cities and states across the country.

    “For me, he does represent the future of the Democratic Party — the fact that billionaires can’t just buy our election, that if someone really cares to truly represent the everyday person, people will rise up and that money will not talk,” Razine said. “At the end of the day, people talk.”

    The Associated Press and Times staff writer Connor Sheets contributed to this report.

    Kevin Rector, Summer Lin

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  • How districts can avoid 4 hidden costs of outdated facilities systems

    Key points:

    School leaders are under constant pressure to stretch every dollar further, yet many districts are losing money in ways they may not even realize. The culprit? Outdated facilities processes that quietly chip away at resources, frustrate staff, and create ripple effects across learning environments. From scheduling mishaps to maintenance backlogs, these hidden costs can add up fast, and too often it’s students who pay the price. 

    The good news is that with a few strategic shifts, districts can effectively manage their facilities and redirect resources to where they are needed most. Here are four of the most common hidden costs–and how forward-thinking school districts are avoiding them. 

    How outdated facilities processes waste staff time in K–12 districts

    It’s a familiar scene: a sticky note on a desk, a hallway conversation, and a string of emails trying to confirm who’s handling what. These outdated processes don’t just frustrate staff; they silently erode hours that could be spent on higher-value work. Facilities teams are already stretched thin, and every minute lost to chasing approvals or digging through piles of emails is time stolen from managing the day-to-day operations that keep schools running.  

    A centralized, intuitive facilities management software platform changes everything. Staff and community members can submit requests in one place, while automated, trackable systems ensure approvals move forward without constant follow-up. Events sync directly with Outlook or Google calendars, reducing conflicts before they happen. Work orders can be submitted, assigned, and tracked digitally, with mobile access that lets staff update tickets on the go. Real-time dashboards offer visibility into labor, inventory, and preventive maintenance, while asset history and performance data enable leaders to plan more effectively for the long term. Reports for leadership, audits, and compliance can be generated instantly, saving hours of manual tracking. 

    The result? Districts have seen a 50-75 percent reduction in scheduling workload, stronger cross-department collaboration, and more time for the work that truly moves schools forward.

    Using preventive maintenance to avoid emergency repairs and extend asset life

    When maintenance is handled reactively, small problems almost always snowball into costly crises. A leaking pipe left unchecked can become a flooded classroom and a ruined ceiling. A skipped HVAC inspection may lead to a midyear system failure, forcing schools to close or scramble for portable units. 

    These emergencies don’t just drain budgets; they disrupt instruction, create safety hazards, and erode trust with families. A more proactive approach changes the narrative. With preventive maintenance embedded into a facilities management software platform, districts can automate recurring schedules, ensure tasks are assigned to the right technicians, and attach critical resources, such as floor plans or safety notes, to each task. Schools can prioritize work orders, monitor labor hours and expenses, and generate reports on upcoming maintenance to plan ahead. 

    Restoring systems before they fail extends asset life and smooths operational continuity. This keeps classrooms open, budgets predictable, and leaders prepared, rather than reactive. 

    Maximizing ROI by streamlining school space rentals

    Gymnasiums, fields, and auditoriums are among a district’s most valuable community resources, yet too often they sit idle simply because scheduling is complicated and chaotic. Paper forms, informal approvals, and scattered communication mean opportunities slip through the cracks.

    When users can submit requests through a single, digital system, scheduling becomes transparent, trackable, and far easier to manage. A unified dashboard prevents conflicts, streamlines approvals, and reduces the back-and-forth that often slows the process. 

    The payoff isn’t just smoother operations; districts can see increased ROI through easier billing, clearer reporting, and more consistent use of unused spaces. 

    Why schools need facilities data to make smarter budget decisions

    Without reliable facilities data, school leaders are forced to make critical budget and operational decisions in the dark. Which schools need additional staffing? Which classrooms, gyms, or labs are underused? Which capital projects should take priority, and which should wait? Operating on guesswork not only risks inefficient spending, but it also limits a district’s ability to demonstrate ROI or justify future investments. 

    A clear, centralized view of facilities usage and costs creates a strong foundation for strategic decision-making. This visibility can provide instant insights into patterns and trends. Districts can allocate resources more strategically, optimize staffing, and prioritize projects based on evidence rather than intuition. This level of insight also strengthens accountability, enabling schools to share transparent reports with boards, staff, and other key stakeholders, thereby building trust while ensuring that every dollar works harder. 

    Facilities may not always be the first thing that comes to mind when people think about student success, but the way schools manage their spaces, systems, and resources has a direct impact on learning. By moving away from outdated, manual processes and embracing smarter, data-driven facilities management, districts can unlock hidden savings, prevent costly breakdowns, and optimize the use of every asset. 

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    Shane Foster, Follett Software

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  • How Windows 11 is powering the next generation of K-12 innovation

    Key points:

    As school districts navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape, IT and academic leaders face a growing list of challenges–from hybrid learning demands and complex device ecosystems to rising cybersecurity threats and accessibility expectations. To stay ahead, districts need more than incremental upgrades–they need a secure, intelligent, and adaptable technology foundation.

    That’s the focus of the new e-book, Smarter, Safer, and Future-Ready: A K-12 Guide to Migrating to Windows 11. This resource takes an in-depth look at how Windows 11 can help school districts modernize their learning environments, streamline device management, and empower students and educators with AI-enhanced tools designed specifically for education.

    Readers will discover how Windows 11:

    • Protects district data with built-in, chip-to-cloud security that guards against ransomware, phishing, and emerging cyberattacks.
    • Simplifies IT management through automated updates, intuitive deployment tools, and centralized control–freeing IT staff to focus on innovation instead of maintenance.
    • Drives inclusivity and engagement with enhanced accessibility features, flexible interfaces, and AI-powered personalization that help every learner succeed.
    • Supports hybrid and remote learning with seamless collaboration tools and compatibility across a diverse range of devices.

    The e-book also outlines practical strategies for planning a smooth Windows 11 migration–whether upgrading existing systems or introducing new devices–so institutions can maximize ROI while minimizing disruption.

    For CIOs, IT directors, and district technology strategists, this guide provides a blueprint for turning technology into a true driver of academic excellence, operational efficiency, and district resilience.

    Download the e-book today to explore how Windows 11 is helping K-12 districts become smarter, safer, and more future-ready than ever before.

    Laura Ascione
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    Laura Ascione

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  • Why mentorship networks are essential in the college admissions process

    Key points:

    As the vice president of academic affairs and a member of the admissions committee at SSP International (SSPI), a nonprofit organization offering immersive scientific experiences, I review hundreds of applications each year from rising seniors for our flagship program, Summer Science Program. What we’ve learned is that many of our bright and talented students are navigating their academic careers without access to the same supports as similarly high-achieving students.

    Where other Summer Science Program applicants might benefit from private tutors, college consultants, or guidance from parents familiar with the college application process and the high stress of today’s competitive college market, these students rise to the top of the applicant pool without leaning on the same resources as their peers.

    This is especially true for first-generation students who will be the first in their families to graduate from high school, go through the college admissions process, apply for financial aid, and enroll in college. Not only do they need to be more resourceful and self-reliant without the support of their personal networks, but they also often take on the responsibility of guiding their parents through these processes, rather than the other way around.

    School counselor shortage

    For many students who are underrepresented in academia, their exposure to different colleges, careers, and networks comes from their school counselors. While the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recommends a minimum student-to-school counselor ratio of 250:1, the nationwide shortage of counselors led to a national average ratio of 385:1 between 2020-2023. That is a lot of strain on counselors who already serve as jacks of all trades–needing to keep up with evolving college admissions processes, understand the financial circumstances of hundreds of families, provide emotional support, and stay on top of the job market to advise accordingly. This ultimately affects the level of personalized counseling students receive.

    Making the college admissions process accessible

    In 2020, SSPI launched College Link, a mentorship program offering Summer Science Program alumni access to one-on-one or group mentoring. Mentors support students during their transition from high school to college through guidance on financial aid, early decision/early action processes, college applications, personal essay writing, resume workshopping, and more. To date, College Link has served over 650 mentees and recruited over 580 mentors sourced from SSPI’s 4,200 alumni network.

    This mentorship network comprises individuals from various backgrounds, leading successful and diverse careers in academia and STEM. Mentors like Dr. Emma Louden, an astrophysicist, strategist, and youth advocate who also helped develop the program, provided SSPI’s recent alumni with insights from their real-world professional experiences. This helps them explore a variety of careers within the STEM field beyond what they learn about in the classroom.

    Demographic data from last year’s Summer Science Program cohort showed that 37 percent of participants had parents with no higher education degree. That is why College Link prioritizes one-on-one mentoring for first-generation college alumni who need more personalized guidance when navigating the complexities of the college application and admission process.

    College Link also offers group mentoring for non-first-generation students, who receive the same services from several mentors bringing great expertise on the varying topics highlighted from week to week.

    With the support of College Link, nearly one hundred percent of Summer Science Program alumni have gone on to attend college, including MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech and other prestigious institutions.

    Using College Link as a blueprint

    As the U.S. continues to face a counselor shortage, schools can further support students, especially first-generation students, through the college admissions process by creating mentorship networks using the College Link model. Schools can tap into their alumni network and identify successful role models who are ready to mentor younger generations and guide them beyond the admissions process. With the widespread implementation of Zoom in our everyday lives, it is now easier than ever to build networks virtually.

    Mentorship networks in schools can provide additional support systems for high school students and alleviate the pressures school counselors experience daily during college admissions season. Let’s continue to ensure the college admissions process is accessible to all students.

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    Dr. Mike Manzella, SSP International

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  • AI, CTE are key to preparing students for future careers

    This press release originally appeared online.

    Key points:

    Educators are embracing AI and career and technical education (CTE) as keys to preparing students for their future after high school, according to the 2025 Savvas Educator Index from K-12 learning solutions provider Savvas Learning Company.

    The annual national survey of K-12 teachers and administrators offers a pulse check on what educators see as the most pressing challenges and promising solutions in U.S. education this coming school year and beyond.

    “Educators are embracing new possibilities for student success and are eager for innovative tools that empower more effective, relevant learning experiences,” said Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company. “This year’s Savvas Educator Index highlights a collective demand for solutions that meet the moment, including AI and CTE, without compromising durable, essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and collaboration.”

    AI in classrooms? Only if it builds real-world skills

    Educators are cautiously optimistic about AI, with 66 percent planning to increase AI use in the 2025-26 school year–up from 57 percent last year. Of those who teach or oversee high school, more than half (56 percent) believe understanding AI is “very” or “extremely” important for students’ future success.

    But that optimism is tempered by concern.

    • Only 5 percent of educators are confident that their students know how to use AI responsibly and critically.
    • The majority (70 percent) of educators say they have received no professional development to support students in learning to use AI for schoolwork.
    • Nearly half (43 percent) of all educators believe current AI use is negatively impacting students’ development of durable skills like communication and critical thinking. This increases to 51 percent among grade 6-8 teachers and 68 percent among high school teachers.

    The disparity between educators’ optimism around implementation and concern around students’ durable skills sends a clear signal: educators want AI tools that come with guardrails, guidance for implementation, and controls meant to develop those skills, not create shortcuts.

    CTE Is the leading model for future workforce readiness

    While traditional academic routes like Advanced Placement (AP) courses have fallen behind in educator favor, CTE is the clear frontrunner when it comes to preparing students for life beyond high school, according to the survey.

    • More than double the number of educators selected CTE (63 percent) as the top program to best prepare students for success after high school compared to those who selected AP courses (26 percent).
    • Among educators who believe CTE programs help students be successful after high school, 87 percent identified job-ready skills and technical training and 79 percent identified early exposure to career pathways and interests as the key benefits students gain from participating in CTE programs while in high school.
    • Among teachers who believe CTE programs help students be successful after high school, 77 percent said CTE enhances students’ employability after high school; that number jumps to 79 percent among administrators.

    Dual enrollment is a critical bridge to success

    As part of the broader shift toward workforce readiness, the survey found dual enrollment programs are also powerful tools to help students prepare for college and career pathways. Among high school educators whose schools offer these courses, the benefits are clear and compelling.

    • The opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school was cited by 88 percent of educators as a major advantage.
    • Reduced tuition costs followed closely behind as a major advantage at 75 percent, and a smoother transition to postsecondary education at 70 percent, underscoring dual enrollment’s role in making higher education more affordable and accessible.

    Beyond cost savings, educators emphasized the importance of early exposure to college-level work and future career pathways, aligning with a national push to introduce students to postsecondary options earlier in their academic journeys.

    Without relevance, students struggle to stay motivated

    Educators are also sounding the alarm on a persistent and systemic issue: student motivation.

    • Three-fourths of educators surveyed (75 percent) cited lack of motivation as a leading challenge for the coming school year, with half of those respondents saying it is the top challenge students face.
    • Sixty-four percent of high school educators said motivation is a major barrier to earning a living wage after high school, and 45 percent said it hinders students’ college success.

    These concerns further reinforce the demand for learning that feels connected to students’ lives and futures, and educators overwhelmingly point to intentional use of AI-powered tools and CTE offerings as ways to deliver student success beyond their K-12 education.

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    ESchool Media Contributors

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  • Democratic candidates for governor focus on affordability and healthcare at labor forum

    SAN DIEGO — Six Democrats running for governor next year focused on housing affordability, the cost of living and healthcare cuts as the most daunting issues facing Californians at a labor forum on Saturday in San Diego.

    Largely in lockstep about these matters, the candidates highlighted their political resumes and life stories to try to create contrasts and curry favor with attendees.

    Former state Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon, in his first gubernatorial forum since entering the race in late September, leaned into his experience as the first millennial elected to the state Legislature.

    “I feel like my experience and my passion uniquely positioned me in this race to ride a lane that nobody else can ride, being a millennial and being young and having a different perspective,” said Calderon, 39.

    Concerns about his four children’s future as well as the state’s reliance on Washington, D.C., drove his decision to run for governor after choosing not to seek reelection to the Legislature in 2020.

    “I want [my children] to have opportunity. I want them to have a future. I want life to be better. I want it to be easier,” said Calderon, whose family has deep roots in politics. State leaders must focus “on D.C.-proofing California. We cannot continue to depend on D.C. and expect that they’re going to give a s— about us and what our needs are, because they don’t.”

    Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who also served as the state’s attorney general after a 24-year stint in Congress, argued that it is critical to elect a governor who has experience.

    “Would you let someone who’s never flown a plane tell you, ‘I can fly that plane back to land’ if they’ve never done it before?” Becerra asked. “Do you give the keys to the governor’s office to someone who hasn’t done this before?”

    He contrasted himself with other candidates in the race by invoking a barking chihuahua behind a chain-link fence.

    “Where’s the bite?” he said, after citing his history, such as suing President Trump 122 times, and leading the sprawling federal health bureaucracy during the pandemic. “You don’t just grow teeth overnight.”

    Calderon and Becerra were among six Democratic candidates who spoke at length to about 150 California leaders of multiple chapters of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

    The union has more than 200,000 members in California and is being battered by the federal government shutdown, the state’s budget deficit and impending healthcare strikes. AFSCME is a powerful force in California politics, providing troops to knock on voters’ doors and man phone banks.

    The forum came as the gubernatorial field to replace termed-out Gov. Gavin Newsom is in flux.

    Former Vice President Kamala Harris announced earlier this summer that she has opted against running for the seat. Former state Senate leader Toni Atkins suspended her gubernatorial campaign in late September.

    Rumors continue to swirl about whether billionaire businessman Rick Caruso or Sen. Alex Padilla will join the field.

    “I am weighing it. But my focus is first and foremost on encouraging people to vote for Proposition 50,” the congressional redistricting matter on the November ballot, Padilla told the New York Times in an interview published Saturday. “The other decision? That race is not until next year. So that decision will come.”

    Wealthy Democratic businessman Stephen J. Cloobeck and Republican Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco declined an invitation to participate in the forum, citing prior commitments.

    The union will consider an endorsement at a future conference, said Matthew Maldonado, executive director for District Council 36, which represents 25,000 workers in Southern California.

    Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa leaned into his longtime roots in labor before he ran for office. But he also alluded to tensions with unions after being elected mayor in 2005.

    Labeled a “scab” when he crossed picket lines the following year during a major city workers’ strike, Villaraigosa also clashed with unions over furloughs and layoffs during the recession. His relationship with labor hit a low in 2010 when Villaraigosa called the city’s teachers union, where he once worked, “the largest obstacle to creating quality schools.”

    “I want you to know something about me. I’m not going to say yes to every darn thing that everybody comes up to me with, including sometimes the unions,” Villaraigosa said. “When I was mayor, they’ll tell you sometimes I had to say no. Why? I wasn’t going to go bankrupt, and I knew I had to protect pensions and the rest of it.”

    He pledged to work with labor if elected governor.

    Labor leaders asked most of the questions at the forum, with all of the candidates being asked about the same topics, such as if they supported and would campaign for a proposed state constitutional amendment to help UC workers with down-payment loans for houses.

    “Hell yes,” said former Rep. Katie Porter of Irvine, who teaches at UC Irvine’s law school and benefited from a program created by state university leaders to allow faculty to buy houses priced below the market rate in costly Orange County because the high cost of housing in the region was an obstacle in recruiting professors.

    “I get to benefit from UC Irvine’s investment in their professionals and professors and professional staff housing, but they are not doing it for everyone,” she said, noting workers such as clerks, janitors and patient-care staff don’t have access to similar benefits.

    State Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who entered the gathering dancing to Dr. Dre and Tupac’s “California Love,” agreed to support the housing loans as well as to walk picket lines with tens of thousands of Kaiser health employees expected to go on strike later this month.

    AFSCME local leaders listening to former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra speak at a gubernatorial forum Saturday in San Diego.

    (Seema Mehta / Los Angeles Times)

    “I will be there,” Thurmond responded, adding that he had just spoken on the phone with Kaiser’s chief executive, and urged him to meet labor demands about staffing, pay, retirement and benefits, especially in the aftermath of their work during the pandemic. “Just get it done, damn it, and give them what they’re asking for.”

    Former state Controller Betty Yee agreed to both requests as well, arguing that the healthcare employers are focused on profit at the expense of patient care.

    “Yes, absolutely,” she said when asked about joining the Kaiser picket line. “Shame on them. You cannot be expected to take care of others if you cannot take care of yourselves.”

    Seema Mehta

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  • ‘I am cautiously optimistic’: Eatonville residents discuss future of historic Hungerford property

    The story continues on a multi-year development for the historic town of Eatonville. Except this time, there’s a new chapter in the history of the town, with a new partnership in Dr. Phillips Charities.”The town of Eatonville is finally able to say we are getting ready to show real progress,” Mayor Angie Gardner said. Gardner announced progress for Eatonville during a public meeting at the Denton Johnson Community Center on Friday.Residents and visitors discussed the future of the Historic Hungerford Property.”The town of Eatonville is finally able to say we are getting ready to show real progress,” Gardner said.”I am cautiously optimistic, but optimistic nonetheless, and I say that because we still have an opportunity to be at the table,” Bruce Mount Jr. said. The Orange County School Board voted unanimously to transfer the 117-acre parcel to Dr. Phillips Charities, which includes a $1 million down payment to bring the master plan to life. At least three residents expressed concerns about outside involvement.”We could have bought this land ourselves. We should be the one with the MLU with the school board saying this is what we want to do with our land. Nobody else needs to come here and do that,” said Kingg Mack Bertrand, who lives in Eatonville.Jean Jones Alexander countered, “We can’t go back. We can’t snatch that property back. We need to get it together. We really do. We need to learn how to work together.”The town’s master plan calls for affordable housing, education, health care, cultural preservation, and long-term economic development.”With this master plan, we’re going to have new development and that’s going to create more jobs and employment,” said Theo McWhite, a resident of Eatonville.”No doubt there will be more input meetings as well as many more steps to this plan because it is a 25-year plan,” said GPB.Terry Prather, Dr. Phillips Charities Board chair, said, “Now there’s probably 100 steps we have to take from design, development, building an infrastructure for our team.””I feel real good about where we are right now, and it has been a mood shift, a mood shift, and it’s a great mood shift,” Gardner said.Town leaders reminded the public, this is not just about a master plan for the Hungerford property; it’s a master plan for the entire town.Updates on developments can be found on Hungerford.townofeatonville.org and envisioneatonville.com.

    EATONVILLE, Fla. —

    The story continues on a multi-year development for the historic town of Eatonville.
    Except this time, there’s a new chapter in the history of the town, with a new partnership in Dr. Phillips Charities.

    “The town of Eatonville is finally able to say we are getting ready to show real progress,” Mayor Angie Gardner said.

    Gardner announced progress for Eatonville during a public meeting at the Denton Johnson Community Center on Friday.

    Residents and visitors discussed the future of the Historic Hungerford Property.

    “The town of Eatonville is finally able to say we are getting ready to show real progress,” Gardner said.

    “I am cautiously optimistic, but optimistic nonetheless, and I say that because we still have an opportunity to be at the table,” Bruce Mount Jr. said.

    The Orange County School Board voted unanimously to transfer the 117-acre parcel to Dr. Phillips Charities, which includes a $1 million down payment to bring the master plan to life. At least three residents expressed concerns about outside involvement.

    “We could have bought this land ourselves. We should be the one with the MLU with the school board saying this is what we want to do with our land. Nobody else needs to come here and do that,” said Kingg Mack Bertrand, who lives in Eatonville.

    Jean Jones Alexander countered, “We can’t go back. We can’t snatch that property back. We need to get it together. We really do. We need to learn how to work together.”

    The town’s master plan calls for affordable housing, education, health care, cultural preservation, and long-term economic development.

    “With this master plan, we’re going to have new development and that’s going to create more jobs and employment,” said Theo McWhite, a resident of Eatonville.

    “No doubt there will be more input meetings as well as many more steps to this plan because it is a 25-year plan,” said GPB.

    Terry Prather, Dr. Phillips Charities Board chair, said, “Now there’s probably 100 steps we have to take from design, development, building an infrastructure for our team.”

    “I feel real good about where we are right now, and it has been a mood shift, a mood shift, and it’s a great mood shift,” Gardner said.

    Town leaders reminded the public, this is not just about a master plan for the Hungerford property; it’s a master plan for the entire town.

    Updates on developments can be found on Hungerford.townofeatonville.org and envisioneatonville.com.

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  • Your Turn: Beaver County’s proud legacy brings a bright future

    This past June, I had the privilege of speaking to the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Development Cohort VII as they graduated from the yearlong program.

    Among my remarks were comments made about the economic future of Beaver County in a video scripted and produced by RYNO Production Inc. The video collaboration was completed in 2019 as the Shell Polymers facility was being constructed. There was immense pride and excitement around our manufacturing and energy-related legacy being restored and how this largest construction project in North America and Pennsylvania history was putting us on the map.

    The video begins with, “They say that to see what the future holds, you must first look at the past.” Our past was forged by steel, and we recounted the impact Beaver County has had on the construction of America, from the Empire State Building to the Golden Gate Bridge. Our steel helped win wars and make the products that made us the envy of the world. We Beaver Countians are extremely proud of that history and we predicted a renaissance and new beginning was about to take hold.

    It is clear to those of us who work every day on improving the quality of life in the county that our bright future is coming to fruition. Beaver County is leading the way in creating manufacturing, construction, entrepreneurship, hospitality, healthcare and technology investments.

    That growth and prosperity started with Shell Polymers and that video. Shell has not only produced over 800 permanent jobs, they kept the county moving forward and financially viable by investing billions of dollars (reportedly $14B) in the regional economy during the pandemic. In addition, they continue to support many of our schools, nonprofits, workforce development, senior programs and Main Street businesses. They not only bring financial stability, but they also bring new leadership, talent and volunteer resources to our communities. They are meeting their promises on job creation and striving to fulfill their obligations to be a good neighbor. We are grateful to have them in our community.

    While Shell paved the way, it was just the start of billions more being invested in Beaver County. Vista Corp. soon followed with the purchase of the Shippingport Nuclear Power Station and has become a tremendous neighbor and employer. When looking to expand into the U.S. market, Stoelzle Glass noticed what was being constructed along the Ohio River and purchased the Monaca glass facility. Their investment has expanded the workforce and invested in new technology.

    A partial list of others that have invested and continue to help grow and diversify our economy since Shell announced includes Tenaris Steel, Beemac Trucking, St. Barnabas Health System, UPMC, Highmark, Heritage Valley Health System and Kenson Plastics. Most recently, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products announced an $86M advanced switchgear facility. The Frontier Group recently announced $3.2B for converting the former Bruce Mansfield power plant back to an energy-producing facility that will bring a state-of-the-art hyperscale AI data center. Again, more jobs, more economic diversification, more growth and more potential for Beaver County.

    As a county, we have also invested millions of ARPA funds into infrastructure improvements of our municipalities and county assets, like our national award-winning Connect Beaver County Broadband implementation. We continue to work with entrepreneurs and developers throughout the region to ensure Beaver County continues to attract and retain workers and families supported by those businesses.

    Sometimes we are too focused on the task at hand that we can’t always see that there has been a remarkable transformation in our legacy river towns. From Aliquippa to Midland, from Ambridge to Beaver Falls, and in Monaca, New Brighton, Rochester and Bridgewater. In addition, our retail centers in Economy and Brighton, Center, Chippewa, Hopewell Franklin, North Sewickley and New Sewickley townships continue to bring in new retail, restaurants and housing.

    Our tireless work ethic, community resilience, combined with tremendous geographic and infrastructure advantages (along with the natural beauty of our rivers, parks, farmland and forests), are producing a new era of prosperity and quality of life in Beaver County. Like any county in the commonwealth, we have many continuing obstacles to overcome and problems to solve. We are not naïve and know that our work is never done. But those of us who actually live, work and play in Beaver County can see and feel the progress every day.

    That video in 2019 ends with the tagline of, “We are proud of our past; tireless in our present; and confident in our future … Won’t you join us?” Please know that we are always willing to collaborate with anyone wanting to make Beaver County a home for their business and family.

    Jack Manning is a Beaver County Commissioner.

    This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Your Turn: Beaver County’s proud legacy brings a bright future

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  • Turning superintendent transitions into strength–not division

    Key points:

    When a long-serving superintendent departs, districts inherit more than a vacancy. They inherit emotion, legacy, and the uncertainty that comes with change. With superintendent tenure shrinking nationwide, the real question isn’t if transitions will happen; it’s whether districts can navigate them without losing momentum for students.

    I stepped into the superintendency at Mississinewa Community Schools following the retirement of a respected leader. We avoided the common pitfalls, mixed messages, rumor spirals, and initiative drift by treating the transition as a community moment rather than a personnel change.

    Here are practical steps any district can adapt, regardless of size or setting.

    1. Model professionalism, especially when it’s hard

    Leadership changes often mean disappointment for people who’ve given years to the district. Ask outgoing leaders to help “set the table” for what’s next: Attend public meetings, co-host early listening sessions, and make warm handoffs to key staff and partners.

    Why it works: Visible unity lowers anxiety and keeps adults focused on students, not politics.

    Try this: Create a two-page “transition script” with shared talking points, key dates, and who says what, when.

    2. Go first with transparency

    Transitions are prime time for speculation. Beat it with a simple, repeated message: what’s changing, what’s not, and when stakeholders can weigh in.

    Why it works: Predictability builds trust; small, frequent updates outperform lengthy, sporadic memos.

    Try this: A 60-day communications cadence; weekly staff note, biweekly family/community update, and a brief public dashboard tracking immediate priorities (e.g., safety, staffing, instruction, operations).

    3. Build trust through presence, not pronouncements

    Spend full days in each school early on–not for photo ops, but for structured listening. Invite a veteran leader with deep relationships to walk alongside the new leader.
    Why it works: Trust is built in classrooms and hallways. Side-by-side introductions transfer social capital and signal continuity.

    Try this: Use a three-question listening protocol: What’s working students-first? What’s getting in the way? What’s one quick win we can try this month? Close the loop publicly on what you heard and acted on.

    4. Protect instructional continuity

    Transitions can unintentionally pause or reset key initiatives. Identify the 3-5 “do-not-drop” items (e.g., early literacy practices, MTSS, PLC rhythms) and assign explicit owners and check-ins.

    Why it works: Students shouldn’t feel the turbulence of adult change.

    Try this: A one-page “continuity plan” listing each initiative, the non-negotiables, owners, and 30/60/90-day milestones.

    5. Anchor every decision in integrity

    People watch how leaders behave under stress. Humility from those exiting, patience from those staying, and clarity from those arriving are all forms of integrity that audiences read quickly.

    Why it works: Integrity reduces drama and accelerates collaboration.

    Try this: Adopt a simple decision rubric you can publish: Is it student-centered? Is it equitable? Is it feasible this term? Share how recent decisions aligned with the rubric.

    A quick-start checklist (steal this)

    • Day 0–15: Announce the continuity plan; align the cabinet on 3-5 non-negotiables; publish listening tour dates.
    • Day 30: Report “you said/we did” updates; celebrate quick wins; schedule joint appearances with outgoing leaders where appropriate.
    • Day 60: Refresh the dashboard; confirm owners/timelines for longer-horizon work; address one stubborn, high-visibility pain point.
    • Day 90: Publicly close the transition phase; restate the district’s instructional priorities and how they will be measured.

    Watchouts

    • Mixed messages: If leaders aren’t saying the same thing, you’re fueling rumors. Script and rehearse.
    • New-initiative temptation: Resist “rebranding” just to mark the moment. Improve execution first; rename later.
    • Invisible wins: Listening without visible action erodes trust. Close loops quickly–even on small items.

    Bottom line

    Leadership transitions aren’t just about titles; they’re about people and the students we serve. With professionalism, transparency, presence, and integrity, districts can turn a vulnerable moment into a unifying one and keep learning at the center where it belongs.

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    Jeremy Fewell, Mississinewa Community Schools

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  • Pirouettes & Percocets: Future & Grand Marnier Are Blending Bold Storytelling & Ballet For 10th Anniversary Celebration Of Era-Defining Classic ’DS2’

    Sensational!

    Source: Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Maxim

    Pluto’s foremost philosopher, Future, is teaming up with Grand Marnier, famed fashion designer LaQuan Smith, and Emmy-winning choreographer Ebony Williams for DS2 Remixed: The Ballet–a one-night-only blend of bold storytelling and ballet commemorating the 10th Anniversary of seminal album DS2.

    The NYFW finale will immerse audience members into a boundary-pushing reimagining of DS2 through the majestic movements of world-class Black ballet performers with high-glamour costumes by LaQuan Smith at the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s Howard Gilman Opera House on Sept. 19.

    “This is the kind of bold work that truly excites us because it creates an organic opportunity for authentic engagement, audience cultivation, and to grow our ever-evolving community,” said Mari Ogino, BAM’s Director of Corporate Strategy about the unique collab.

    “We’re proud to partner with Grand Marnier on this landmark performance that so beautifully fuses innovation with representation.”

    Future x DS2 Remixed: The Ballet

    Source: Grand Marnier

    For Future, bringing his culture-shifting classic to Brooklyn–the hometown of Hip-Hop titans Jay Z and Biggie–is a monumental moment in the platinum-selling rapper’s enviable career.

    “DS2 changed the game for me,” said Future in a statement. “A decade later and you still feel that energy everywhere. To see a mixtape I made turned into a ballet with Grand Marnier, right here in NYC? That’s different. That’s legendary.”

    In the latest phase of their intriguing partnership, Grand Marnier announced limited-edition ‘GM2’ Cocktail Kits available on Cocktail Courier from August 18th to September 18th.

    To make things even sweeter, Grand Marnier is giving away a signed DS2 vinyl record by Future and premium Grand Marnier barware to two lucky sweepstakes winners with 10% of proceeds from cocktail kit sales benefiting BAM’s Free Music Program.

    “This imaginative fusion of hip-hop and ballet represents something fundamentally true about our brand philosophy,” said Sonia Lessuck Pirolo, Category Marketing Director for Cognacs and Champagnes at Campari America.

    “Just as DS2 broke the mold of conventional Rap a decade ago, Grand Marnier has always existed at the intersection of tradition and disruption. This performance does exactly that with two seemingly disparate art forms, creating a cultural moment that honors the heritage of both while fearlessly pushing creative boundaries. Together with BAM, Brooklyn’s historic home for artistic innovation, we’re excited to invite a new generation to experience how powerful it can be when we dare to remix legacy, ultimately making moments truly grand.”

    For more info about DS2 Remixed: The Ballet event, click here.

    Alex Ford

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  • Miles for a cause: Walk to End Alzheimer’s steps off in Yuba City

    CAUSE TODAY. THE 2025 WALKED IN. ALZHEIMER’S GOT UNDERWAY IN YUBA CITY, KCRA 3’S ERIN HEFT SHOWS US HOW YOU CAN STILL HELP. THE FLOWERS ARE A BEAUTIFUL REPRESENTATION OF THE CONNECTION THAT WE HAVE TO ALZHEIMER’S. THE CONNECTION THAT WE HAVE AS A CAREGIVER IS YELLOW. THE CONNECTION THAT WE HAVE FOR SOMEONE THAT IS EMPATHETIC TO THE CAUSE BUT DOESN’T REALLY HAVE SOMEONE THAT THEY KNOW CLOSE TO THEM, THAT IS ORANGE. AND THEN FOR SOMEONE THAT HAS LOST SOMEONE TO ALZHEIMER’S, THAT IS THE PURPLE FLOWER. FLOWERS IN HAND, MARCHED DOWN THE STREETS OF YUBA CITY, A LIFE BEHIND EACH ONE. THE BLUE ONE IS THE ONE THAT IS THE HARDEST TO SEE. SOMETIMES IT’S THE PERSON THAT HAS ALZHEIMER’S AND WE WANT THEM TO FEEL INCLUDED. AND THIS ONE TIME, MAYBE JUST ONCE A YEAR, THEY FEEL THAT THEIR CONNECTION IT MATTERS. A DAY TO SUPPORT, A DAY TO BRING TOGETHER, A DAY TO HONOR THE MANY LIVES TOUCHED BY DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S. WE SPOKE WITH RANDY MA, WHO EXPLAINED SHE’S HERE TO HONOR A CLOSE FAMILY FRIEND AS ONE OF THEIR CARETAKERS. IT IS VERY STRESSFUL AND YOU HAVE TO HAVE A LOT OF LOVE AND COMPASSION AND BE JUST BE THERE FOR THOSE THAT NEED YOU TODAY AND TOMORROW AND IN THE FUTURE. THESE CROWDS, NOT ONLY RAISING FUNDS, BUT AWARENESS, LEAVING LOVING MESSAGES OF TRIBUTE. THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION BRINGING TO LIGHT THE REALITY THAT THE COUNTRY FACES WITH 7 MILLION AMERICANS CURRENTLY DIAGNOSED, THAT NUMBER IS PROJECTED TO NEARLY DOUBLE BY THE YEAR 2050 THROUGH FUNDRAISING. IT’S THEIR GOAL TO END ALZHEIMER’S, PUTTING ONE STEP IN FRONT OF THE OTHER TO CHANGE THE FUTURE FOR MILLIONS. WE ARE PROUD OF YOU IN YUBA CITY, ERIN HEFT KCRA THREE NEWS WALKED IN ALZHEIMER’S YUBA CITY HAS A FUNDRAISING GOAL OF $97,500, AND CURRENTLY THEY’VE MADE IT TO 70% OF THEIR GOAL. BUT

    Miles for a cause: Walk to End Alzheimer’s steps off in Yuba City

    Flowers in hand, participants marched through city streets, each bloom symbolizing a life, a story, and a connection to the cause.

    Updated: 10:29 PM PDT Sep 6, 2025

    Editorial Standards ⓘ

    The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s set off in Yuba City on Saturday, drawing families, caregivers and supporters determined to change the future of dementia. Flowers in hand, participants marched through city streets, each bloom symbolizing a life, a story, and a connection to the cause.“The flowers are a beautiful representation of the connection that we have to Alzheimer’s,” explained Elicia Stewart, Walk Manager for Yuba City and Chico. “Yellow represents caregivers. Orange is for those who support the cause. Purple honors those we’ve lost. The blue one is the hardest to see…it’s for the person living with Alzheimer’s, and we want them to feel included.”It was a day to support, a day to bring together and a day to honor the many lives touched by dementia and Alzheimer’s. Among the walkers was Randie Marr, who came to honor a close family friend as one of their caretakers. “It is very stressful, and you have to have a lot of love and compassion,” Marr said. “Just be there for those that need you today and tomorrow and in the future.”Beyond the sea of flowers and heartfelt tributes, the crowd focused on raising both funds and awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association underscored the urgency: with 7 million Americans currently diagnosed, that number is projected to nearly double by 2050. Through fundraising and community action, the goal is clear, to end Alzheimer’s.The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Yuba City has set a fundraising goal of $97,500 and has already reached 70% of that target. Donations remain open on the event website through the end of the year, as walkers keep putting one step in front of another to change the future for millions.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    YUBA CITY, Calif. —

    The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s set off in Yuba City on Saturday, drawing families, caregivers and supporters determined to change the future of dementia.

    Flowers in hand, participants marched through city streets, each bloom symbolizing a life, a story, and a connection to the cause.

    “The flowers are a beautiful representation of the connection that we have to Alzheimer’s,” explained Elicia Stewart, Walk Manager for Yuba City and Chico. “Yellow represents caregivers. Orange is for those who support the cause. Purple honors those we’ve lost. The blue one is the hardest to see…it’s for the person living with Alzheimer’s, and we want them to feel included.”

    It was a day to support, a day to bring together and a day to honor the many lives touched by dementia and Alzheimer’s. Among the walkers was Randie Marr, who came to honor a close family friend as one of their caretakers.

    “It is very stressful, and you have to have a lot of love and compassion,” Marr said. “Just be there for those that need you today and tomorrow and in the future.”

    Beyond the sea of flowers and heartfelt tributes, the crowd focused on raising both funds and awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association underscored the urgency: with 7 million Americans currently diagnosed, that number is projected to nearly double by 2050. Through fundraising and community action, the goal is clear, to end Alzheimer’s.

    The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Yuba City has set a fundraising goal of $97,500 and has already reached 70% of that target. Donations remain open on the event website through the end of the year, as walkers keep putting one step in front of another to change the future for millions.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Choice-ready: Exploring a new standard for preparing students for the future of work

    Key points:

    According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, nearly 40 percent of workers’ core skills will change in just the next five years. As AI, automation, and global connectivity continue to reshape every industry, today’s students are stepping into a world where lifelong careers in a single field are increasingly rare.

    Rather than following a straight path, the most successful professionals tomorrow will be able to pivot, reinvent, and adapt again and again. That’s why the goal of education must also shift. Instead of preparing students for a fixed destination, we must prepare them to navigate change itself.

    At Rockingham County Schools (RCS), this belief is at the heart of our mission to ensure every student is “choice-ready.” Rather than just asking, “What job will this student have?” we’re asking, “Will they be ready to succeed in whatever path they choose now and 10 years from now?”

    Choice-ready is a mindset, not just a pathway

    Let’s start with a quick analogy: Not long ago, the NBA underwent a major transformation. For decades, basketball was largely a two-point game with teams focused on scoring inside the arc. But over time, the strategy shifted to where it is today: a three-point league, where teams that invest in long-range shooters open up the floor, score more efficiently, and consistently outperform those stuck in old models. The teams that adapted reshaped the game. The ones that didn’t have fallen behind.

    Education is facing a similar moment. If we prepare students for a narrow, outdated version of success that prepares them for one track, one career, or one outcome, we risk leaving them unprepared for a world that rewards agility, range, and innovation.

    At RCS, we take a global approach to education to avoid this. Being “choice-ready” means equipping students with the mindset and flexibility to pursue many possible futures, and a global approach expands that readiness by exposing them to a broader range of competencies and real-world situations. This exposure prepares them to navigate the variety of contexts they will encounter as professionals. Rather than locking them into a specific plan, it helps them develop the ability to shift when industries, interests, and opportunities change.

    The core competencies to embrace this mindset and flexibility include:

    • Creative and analytical thinking, which help solve new problems in new contexts
    • Empathy and collaboration, which are essential for dynamic teams and cross-sector work
    • Confidence and communication, which are built through student-led projects and real-world learning

    RCS also brings students into the conversation. They’re invited to shape their learning environment by giving their input on district policies around AI, cell phone use, and dress codes. This encourages engagement and ownership that helps them build the soft skills and self-direction that today’s workforce demands.

    The 4 E’s: A vision for holistic student readiness and flexibility

    To turn this philosophy into action, we developed a four-part framework to support every student’s readiness:

    1. Enlisted: Prepared for military service
    2. Enrolled: Ready for college or higher education
    3. Educated: Grounded in academic and life skills
    4. Entrepreneur: Equipped to create, innovate, and take initiative

    That fourth “E”–entrepreneur–is unique to RCS and especially powerful. It signals that students can create their opportunities rather than waiting for them. In one standout example, a student who began producing and selling digital sound files online explored both creative and commercial skill sets.

    These categories aren’t silos. A student might enlist, then enroll in college, then start a business. That’s the whole point: Choice-ready students can move fluidly from one path to another as their interests–and the world–evolve.

    The role of global education

    Global education is a framework that prepares students to understand the world, appreciate different perspectives, and engage with real-world issues across local and global contexts. It emphasizes transferable skills—such as adaptability, empathy, and critical thinking—that students need to thrive in an unpredictable future.

    At RCS, global education strengthens student readiness through:

    • Dual language immersion, which gives students a competitive edge in a multilingual, interconnected workforce
    • Cultural exposure, which builds resilience, empathy, and cross-cultural competence
    • Real-world learning, which connects academic content to relevant, global challenges

    These experiences prepare students to shift between roles, industries, and even countries with confidence.

    Redesigning career exploration: Early exposure and real skills

    Because we don’t know what future careers will be, we embed career exploration across K-12 to ensure students develop self-awareness and transferable skills early on.

    One of our best examples is the Paxton Patterson Labs in middle schools, where students explore real-world roles, such as practicing dental procedures on models rather than just watching videos.

    Through our career and technical education and innovation program at the high school level, students can:

    • Earn industry-recognized credentials.
    • Collaborate with local small business owners.
    • Graduate workforce-ready with the option to pursue higher education later.

    For students who need immediate income after graduation, RCS offers meaningful preparation that doesn’t close off future opportunities, keeping those doors open.

    And across the system, RCS tracks success by student engagement and ownership, both indicators that a learner is building confidence, agency, and readiness to adapt. This focus on student engagement and preparing students for the world postgraduation is already paying dividends. During the 2024-25 school year, RCS was able to increase the percentage of students scoring proficient on the ACT by more than 20 points to 44 percent. Additionally, RCS increased both the number of students who took AP exams and the number who received a passing score by 12 points to 48 percent.

    Preparing students for a moving target

    RCS knows that workforce readiness is a moving target. That’s why the district continues to evolve with it. Our ongoing focus areas include:

    • Helping graduates become lifelong learners who can retrain and reskill as needed
    • Raising awareness of AI’s influence on learning, creativity, and work
    • Expanding career exploration opportunities that prioritize transferable, human-centered skills

    We don’t know exactly what the future holds. We do know that students who can adapt, pivot, and move confidently from one career path to another will be the most prepared–because the most important outcome isn’t fitting students into today’s job market but preparing them to create value in tomorrow’s.

    At Rockingham County Schools, that’s what being “choice-ready” really means. It’s not about predicting the future. It’s about preparing students to thrive within it wherever it leads.

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    Dr. John Stover, Rockingham County Schools

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  • 3 key opportunities to address education’s biggest challenges

    3 key opportunities to address education’s biggest challenges

    Key points:

    While most students say they are eager to learn and say they feel a strong sense of belonging in school, teachers still face challenges that slow improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes, according to a new report from Discovery Education.

    Teachers are eager to embrace changes that produce positive outcomes, but major barriers to those outcomes remain, according to The Education Insights Report by Discovery Education.

    The report reveals key areas of opportunity for addressing student engagement and captures prevailing attitudes and beliefs from superintendents, teachers, parents, and students.

    Three focus areas emerged in the report:

    1. All stakeholders must foster student engagement to motivate curiosity, inspire exploration, and activate effective learning. Research shows that students who are engaged are more likely to find learning interesting and empowering. Sixty-eight percent of teachers say that getting students excited about learning is a top challenge for them. What’s more, almost all teachers and students (94 percent) agree that curiosity is key to unlocking learning, but 80 percent of students say there are not enough opportunities to be curious. Students must be appropriately challenged in their learning, and prioritizing curiosity and exploration can fuel student engagement.

    2. Career exploration and 21st-century skill development are increasingly critical because teachers, parents, and students feel concerned about students’ preparedness for the future as the workforce evolves. When students see how their current studies connect to potential career paths, they are more likely to be motivated and invested in their education. This integration of curiosity-driven learning and practical exploration of future opportunities guides students toward both academic and career success. Sixty-seven percent of students worry that their education is not evolving to meet future workforce needs. Seventy-four percent of superintendents believe student preparedness for job opportunities has improved compared to five years ago, while only 41 percent of teachers agree. As educators work to engage and motivate students, survey findings suggest they must sharpen their focus in two key areas to better prepare students for the future–career readiness and developing interpersonal skills.

    3. Providing more targeted support for teachers and students can increase confidence and improve outcomes. Studies show that teachers who feel supported are more likely to experience job satisfaction and remain in the profession longer, creating a more stable and effective learning environment for students. Research consistently shows that personalized learning approaches–where
    instruction is tailored to students’ unique strengths, needs, and interests–lead to better academic outcomes, increased engagement, and higher levels of motivation.

    “While The Education Insights Report by Discovery Education found that students, parents, teachers, and superintendents have a generally positive outlook about the current state of education, it also found there are hurdles to overcome,” said Brian Shaw, Discovery Education’s CEO. “Educators have concerns about keeping students engaged, and students feel uncertain about their preparedness for the future. Discovery Education’s goal with this research is to spotlight opportunities for improvement so that all stakeholders can collaborate to solve these challenges and create brighter futures for all learners.”

    Additional findings include:

    • Curiosity is important to everyone. There is broad agreement on the importance of curiosity in learning, with more than 90 percent of stakeholders surveyed agreeing that curiosity is central to learning. However, 82 percent of students and 75 percent of teachers believe there are not enough opportunities to be curious in today’s classrooms.
    • Students want to learn more life skills. Eighty-eight percent of district leaders, teachers, parents, and students rate life skills as very important, but only 57 percent of students believe their schools adequately teach the life skills needed for future success.
    • Teachers see promise in adaptive learning. Ninety-three percent of teachers believe adaptive learning resources would help students learn more effectively and 75 percent of students say learning at their own pace would increase the likelihood of their engaging with lessons, feeling empowered in school, and more prepared for the future.
    • Time is of the essence. Ninety-four percent of teachers surveyed reported that they are seeking classroom tools that will give them time back to focus on students.
    • AI tools from education experts are more trusted. When it comes to Artificial Intelligence, 72 percent of teachers and parents, as well as 85 percent of superintendents surveyed, believe AI-powered customized learning materials are more trustworthy when built by experts in education. In addition, 84 percent of teachers and 90 percent of superintendents believe that as teachers receive more training on how to use AI, it will become a more trusted tool in education.

    Survey data was collected by The Harris Poll, an industry-leading research organization, on behalf of Discovery Education in August 2024. It included 1,524 responses from K-12 students, parents of K-12 students, and K-12 teachers and superintendents.

    Laura Ascione
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    Laura Ascione

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  • Preparing students for Industry 5.0: Rethinking STEM to shape the future workforce

    Preparing students for Industry 5.0: Rethinking STEM to shape the future workforce

    Key points:

    The global workforce is transforming, propelled by the dawn of the Fifth Industrial Revolution–commonly referred to as Industry 5.0. Unlike previous revolutions that focused solely on technological advancement, Industry 5.0 strongly emphasizes collaboration between humans and machines. While AI, robotics, and drones continue to push boundaries, this era also recognizes the importance of human creativity and problem-solving in conjunction with these tools.

    As we prepare the workforce of the future, it becomes clear that we must rethink our approach to STEM education. It’s no longer enough to teach technical skills in isolation. Instead, we must create learning environments that foster creativity and adaptability–key traits that will help students thrive in an increasingly complex and tech-driven world.

    The imperative for Industry 5.0 readiness

    The rise of AI and automation is reshaping industries, creating an urgent need for students to develop technical competencies and think innovatively about how these technologies can be applied. The future workforce must be able to work alongside machines in ways we can’t even fully anticipate yet. Anticipating this demands an education system that evolves to meet future challenges–not just by focusing on coding or data analysis but by cultivating skills that will prove invaluable in navigating new, unforeseen challenges.

    Hands-on STEM learning is key to this evolution. Rather than confining students to theoretical exercises, integrating real-world technologies like drones into the classroom can provide students with the physical experiences they need to better understand the evolving job market. As these young minds engage with advanced tools, they gain the technical know-how and develop the mindset required to succeed in Industry 5.0.

    Why drones? Connecting STEM to real-world applications

    Drones are among the most impactful ways to bring STEM education to life. Unlike traditional teaching methods, drones allow students to interface directly with technology, transforming their learning experiences from passive to active. In classrooms incorporating drones, students can experience real-world problem-solving scenarios that transcend textbook learning.

    For example, drones are already playing a crucial role in industries such as agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. By bringing these applications into the classroom, students are provided the opportunity to understand these technologies and explore their potential in solving pressing challenges across industries. Students can learn about everything from engineering and physics to coding and data analysis, all while working on projects with tangible, real-world implications.

    Take, for instance, schools that leverage partnerships with drone providers to deploy curricula that include practical lesson plans, like surveying local farmland and analyzing soil conditions to help improve crop yields. These projects go beyond theoretical knowledge, teaching students to apply data analytics in meaningful ways. In another example, high school students can design drones to support healthcare initiatives, like delivering medical supplies to remote areas–projects that mirror innovations currently being explored in healthcare logistics. These experiences prepare students for real-world careers and illuminate career pathways that may not have otherwise been obvious or desirable options.

    Bridging the skills gap with experiential learning

    Verticalized skills gaps have become a significant barrier to innovation and economic growth, as many students are graduating without the technical and critical thinking abilities demanded by today’s employers. The gap is particularly evident in data analysis, programming, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity–fields that are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern digital economy.

    This gap continues to widen as technological advancements outpace traditional education methods. In a world increasingly driven by data, students need to learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret information to make informed decisions. Introducing project-based learning centered around data analysis–such as interpreting data sets from environmental studies or designing experiments that involve data collection–gives students hands-on experience in this critical skill area.

    As work becomes increasingly global and cross-functional, students must develop the ability to communicate effectively in diverse teams. Experiential learning projects, such as team-based STEM competitions or group technology builds, teach students the importance of working together toward shared goals while honing their communication skills, mirroring the collaborative environments they will encounter in the workforce.

    Incorporating creativity and human ingenuity in Industry 5.0

    Technical skills are essential, but the distinguishing factor of Industry 5.0 is the synergy between human ingenuity and machine precision. Our ability to innovate and collaborate with machines to solve complex problems will mark this era. Schools should focus on fostering creativity alongside technical training, as the future workforce will be called upon to design new solutions, lead teams, and tackle challenges that have yet to emerge.

    Schools can consider integrating design thinking into their curriculum, where students engage in iterative processes to ideate, prototype, and test solutions to complex problems. In a classroom setting, students could use design thinking to create smart home devices that integrate human comfort with AI precision, focusing on user-centric solutions.

    Entrepreneurship courses in schools will empower students to develop tech startups where they identify a societal problem, design a technological solution, and pitch their idea to judges, peers, and even potential investors. This encourages both creativity in coming up with new ideas and collaboration with technology to make ideas a reality.

    The classroom as a catalyst for the future workforce

    As we move deeper into Industry 5.0, the demand for a workforce that can blend technical skills with innovative problem-solving increases. Integrating hands-on technology like drones into educational environments offers a dynamic way to address this need. It allows students to connect with STEM fields practically and inspiringly. Educators have the crucial responsibility to provide students with the necessary tools and perspectives. By incorporating creative, physical, and project-based lessons into the curriculum, we foster the innovation, adaptability, and collaboration essential for the future workforce.

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    Rob Harvey, FTW Robotics

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  • 7-Eleven’s Future, Cook-From-Frozen Turkeys, Tasting a Coke-Oreo Collaboration

    7-Eleven’s Future, Cook-From-Frozen Turkeys, Tasting a Coke-Oreo Collaboration

    Coca Cola Company

    Juliet and Jacoby share their thoughts on a wild wedding situation, discuss the hydrating qualities of sparkling water, pay their respects to Tupperware, and much more

    This week, Juliet and Jacoby share their thoughts on a wild wedding situation, learn whether sparkling water is as hydrating as regular water, and pay their respects to Tupperware. For this week’s Taste Test, they try fizzy-cookie-flavored Coke and Coke-flavored Oreos. Finally, they share their Personal Food News and react to some Listener Food News.

    Do you have Personal Food News? We want to hear from you! Leave us a voicemail at 646-783-9138 or email ListenerFoodNews@gmail.com for a chance to have your news shared on the show.

    Hosts: Juliet Litman and David Jacoby
    Producer: Mike Wargon

    Subscribe: Spotify

    Juliet Litman

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  • Students need clarity on their postsecondary pathways

    Students need clarity on their postsecondary pathways

    Key points:

    Much emphasis is placed on college and career readiness, but too often, K-12 students aren’t exposed to career possibilities or career resources to form an idea of what their future may look like.

    Students have the aptitudes (or natural talents) for the nation’s most in-demand career fields–including healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and finance–but they are not inclined to pursue those occupations due to a profound lack of exposure, according to The 2024 State of the Future U.S. Workforce Report from tech provider YouScience, which aims to solve the skills gap crisis for students and employers.

    Exposure gaps are particularly prevalent in STEM education and are more pronounced for underrepresented groups like girls and minorities.

    Women play a crucial role in filling high-paying, in-demand STEM careers, but they account for just 34 percent of the STEM workforce, according to 2024 Female Students and STEM Report.

    Beginning in middle school, female students experience significant STEM exposure gaps that continue through high school. The report highlights critical insights into career exposure gaps among female students across the nation for a variety of in-demand jobs, and offers actionable solutions to bridge these gaps in the STEM field careers.

    “Too many young people are leaving high school without clarity on where they’re going next or how to get there. In fact, less than half of respondents who identified as members of Generation Z said they had enough information to decide what post-high school pathway was best for them,” said Judy Goldstein, SVP, PR/Communications, American Student Assistance (ASA).

    A survey commissioned by ASA and Jobs for the Future (JFF) found that both parents and educators lack sufficient information about the range and quality of education to career pathways available to young people today. The survey and accompanying white paper, Beyond Degrees, found nearly 90 percent of parents are interested in learning more about non-degree pathways for their children, and two in five want schools to start advising students about their postsecondary options as early as middle school.

    “With more than a million credentials available through various programs and organizations, today’s youth face a vast array of degree and non-degree options–including certificate programs, apprenticeships, short-term credentials, and professional licenses–but little information on which non-degree paths lead to meaningful, quality jobs and careers. Recognizing this information gap, we’ll see a greater trend toward providing increased equitable access to the information, including free digital resources, that young people need to help them find the path after high school that’s right for them,” Goldstein added.

    As the workforce evolves, students and teachers should know how classroom learning connects to future careers. In fact, making learning relevant to careers and the real world is among the stop strategies educators employ to increase student engagement and interest in lessons.

    “Career-connected learning will become more important than ever. The workforce has undergone significant changes, and today’s jobs require advanced skills and specialized training, particularly in STEM fields. However, many high school classrooms still use outdated college and career preparation models, which can leave high school graduates feeling unprepared for their future,” said Edson Barton, CEO of YouScience. “This highlights the increasing need for high schools to incorporate career-connected learning. In the upcoming school year, we can expect more educators and counselors to focus on aligning their students’ educational experiences with the demands of the job market so that they are better prepared to pursue college and/or career pathways that will empower them to succeed.”

    One way to help students learn what their futures may look like? Career planning.

    “High school students said learning skills they need to be successful in the real world is a top criterion in choosing a path after they graduate. But there’s a disconnect between what students know they want to learn and what they do learn,” writes Joanna McCumber, a digital integration specialist for Anderson School District 5 in South Carolina.

    McCumber uses several career planning tools to help students find what they love to do and identify career paths in those areas:

    1. Discovery Education’s Career Connect helps students connect with working industry professionals to learn about career journeys and what it’s like to work in the field. Teachers can virtually connect students with industry professionals to talk about their careers, the concepts they use to solve problems, and the path they have taken to get to where they are today.

    2. A Day in the Life is a free digital archive of first-hand accounts of what it’s like to work in a specific field or role. Students will be able to find jobs that reflect their interests and get excited about their future. From social media manager, to oncology charge nurse, to video game lead animator, there are countless different career paths to explore.

    3. Forage offers free job simulations that expose students to a wide array of careers and skills. Through partnerships with top companies, students get a unique look into what being an industry professional would be like. Industries range from marketing to software engineering, with popular companies such as J.P. Morgan and Lululemon offering job simulations. This is a great tool for students looking to develop industry-related skills and explore real-life projects.

    Laura Ascione
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    Laura Ascione

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