As 2024 moves into 2025, educators greet a new year with uncertainty. Pandemic-related learning loss and academic inequities remain a hurdle, particularly as COVID relief funding dries up. A second Trump presidency has many educators wondering how proposed policy changes will impact schools and districts.
Education is at a crossroads, with pressing issues such as potentially major federal policy changes, evolving AI, global workforce demands, and equity issues weighing heavily on educators’ minds.
This begs the question: What’s next for education? We asked educators, edtech executives, stakeholders, and experts to share some of their thoughts and predictions about where they think edtech is headed in 2025. (Go back to 2024’s predictions to see which came true and which have yet to materialize.)
Here’s what they had to say:
The kids are not all right–not yet; 2025 will be marked by continued progress in educators’ efforts to address the mental health challenges faced by students, including absenteeism, anxiety and, of course, learning loss. As we continue to navigate this complex issue, I like to think about the ‘three Rs’–Respect, Resiliency, and Responsibility–as crucial to fostering a supportive environment for our children and youth. Respect will be the foundation, encouraging students to value themselves and others, and creating a culture of empathy and understanding. Resiliency will empower students to overcome adversity, teaching them to bounce back from setbacks and develop a growth mindset. Responsibility will instill a sense of accountability, helping students take ownership of their actions and contribute positively to their communities. The challenges are significant, but with a collective effort, this can be the year we make meaningful strides in supporting the mental health and well-being of our children and youth.
—Francie Alexander, Senior Vice President, Efficacy & Consulting Research, HMH
In 2025, education in the United States will reflect both the challenges and opportunities of a system in transition. Uncertainty and change at the federal level will continue to shift decision-making power to states, leaving them with greater autonomy but also greater responsibility. While this decentralization may spark localized innovation, it is just as likely to create uneven standards. In some states, we’ve already seen benchmarks lowered to normalize declines, a trend that could spread as states grapple with resource and performance issues. This dynamic will place an even greater burden on schools, teachers, and academic leaders. As those closest to learners, they will bear the responsibility of bridging the gap between systemic challenges and individual student success. To do so effectively, schools will require tools that reduce administrative complexity, enabling educators to focus on fostering personal connections with students–the foundation of meaningful academic growth. AI will play a transformative role in this landscape, offering solutions to these pressures. However, fragmented adoption driven by decentralized decision-making will lead to inequities, with some districts leveraging AI effectively and others struggling to integrate it. In this complex environment, enterprise platforms that offer flexibility, integration, and choice will become essential. 2025 will demand resilience and creativity, but it also offers all of us an opportunity to refocus on what truly matters: supporting educators and the students they inspire.
—Scott Anderberg, CEO, Moodle
As we look ahead to 2025, supporting educators and offering training opportunities will be a key part in helping students learn about clean energy. When teachers have access to asynchronous or synchronous virtual trainings and in-person, hands-on workshops, they are inspired to bring this content to their students, which is critical to moving a clean energy economy forward. As this sector continues to grow in the U.S. we must make sure all students have ample opportunities to learn about power grid and clean energy technologies.
–Michael Arquin, Founder, KidWind
Overwhelming evidence confirms that persistent gaps in adolescents’ foundational literacy skills are preventing them from attaining educational, career, and life success. This is an urgent and growing national problem, and immediate attention is needed to help these students who likely missed the benefits of an evidence-based curriculum for foundational literacy skills in early elementary school, especially during the COVID crisis. By rethinking how to reach these adolescents and implementing principle-based and tech-enabled practices rooted in learning sciences, educators can help these students recover and become fluent readers.
–Dr. Carolyn Brown, Chief Academic Officer & Co-Founder, Foundations in Learning, Creator of WordFlight
In 2025, as ESSER funding sunsets, schools and districts will take a hard look at the edtech solutions that were rapidly implemented under the urgent pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. The education sector is increasing its focus on evidence-based solutions, resulting in more districts asking for proof that these tools can create meaningful impact in the classroom, not just in research studies, ensuring effectiveness for all students. More districts will ask edtech companies not only whether a solution works, but for whom and under what conditions. This collective push to raise the bar on edtech evidence will help push companies to deliver more evidence-backed products and lead to more useful, impactful tools in our classrooms.
—Auditi Chakravarty, CEO, AERDF
The education sector will see a significant transformation in how data is managed and utilized. The industry has been historically plagued by single-use applications and data silos caused by legacy systems and a lack of standardization. However, in 2025 we will see a shift towards more integrated data ecosystems. This will further enable a comprehensive understanding of the student lifecycle, from pre-K through higher education and beyond. There are many benefits to this strategy at every level. Universities in particular can benefit from this integrated data approach to enhance student recruitment, improve educational outcomes, and maintain stronger alumni connections. The key to breaking through is finding interoperability between the data. The convergence of AI with these consolidated data systems will accelerate innovation in educational analytics and personalized learning programs that benefit students at every level.
—Winston Chang, Global Public Sector CTO, Snowflake
As threats and incidents continue to evolve, schools must innovate and adapt to stay ahead. Electronic access control systems continue to strengthen school security, offering tools that enhance both safety and efficiency. Features like remote lockdown capabilities, real-time alerts for doors left open, and flexible scheduling tailored to the school day bring a new level of control and preparedness to campus safety. These advancements allow schools to respond quickly and confidently during critical moments, helping ensure a secure environment for students and staff. Looking ahead, the adoption of wearable and mobile credentials is poised to transform how schools manage access. Already popular in higher education, these and similar innovations are expected to make their way into K-12 settings. By integrating these systems with other emergency response technologies, schools can create a cohesive and adaptable security infrastructure.
—Ken Cook, Director of School Safety & Advocacy, Allegion
In 2025, advancements in mass communication and interoperability will continue to be pivotal in strengthening school safety and emergency response. Silent panic alarms, like those mandated by Alyssa’s Law, are already making a difference by directly alerting law enforcement and reducing response times during crises. Many schools are expanding their safety toolkit with comprehensive mass notification systems that send real-time updates to parents, staff, and the community during critical moments. Interoperability is the key to making these systems truly effective. By enabling different technologies–like panic buttons, surveillance cameras, and access controls—to work together seamlessly, schools can implement faster, more coordinated responses when every second counts. Open-architecture systems and APIs are becoming essential, allowing schools to integrate various tools into a unified network, regardless of the brand or platform. This interconnected approach ensures schools are prepared to act swiftly and confidently, prioritizing the safety and well-being of their communities.
—Ken Cook, Director of School Safety & Advocacy, Allegion
In 2025, expanding successful access to higher education will depend on bold partnerships between colleges and schools, and with employers, to better support historically underserved communities. By bringing college-credit courses and industry-recognized credentials into high school classrooms, students can gain early exposure to rigorous academics and in-demand skills. Opportunities that integrate mentorship and hands-on learning will help students build confidence, demystify college, and prepare for success in both higher education and the workforce. These collaborations will be critical to creating an inclusive, equitable pipeline of future leaders ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
–Leslie Cornfeld, CEO, National Education Equity Lab
The year 2025 is set to transform science education by implementing AI-driven learning platforms. These platforms will dynamically adjust to the student’s interests and learning paces, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in education. Additionally, virtual labs and simulations will rise, enabling students to experiment with concepts without geographical constraints. This evolution will make high-quality STEM education more universally accessible.
–Tiago Costa, Cloud & AI Architect, Microsoft; Pearson Video Lesson Instructor
In the two years since GenAI was unleashed, K-12 leaders have ridden the wave of experimentation and uncertainty about the role this transformative technology should have in classrooms and districts. 2025 will see a shift toward GenAI strategy development, clear policy and governance creation, instructional integration, and guardrail setting for educators and students. K-12 districts recognize the need to upskill their teachers, not only to take advantage of GenAI to personalize learning, but also so they can teach students how to use this tech responsibly. On the back end, IT leaders will grapple with increased infrastructure demands and ever-increasing cybersecurity threats.
—Delia DeCourcy, Senior Strategist, Lenovo Worldwide Education Team
Education in 2025 will center on technology that enhances meaningful relationships and student support. Edtech tools will move beyond process efficiency to expand educators’ ability to provide personalized, caring interventions, allowing schools to serve more students with greater impact and faster, better outcomes. The priority will shift toward tools that foster authentic connections between educators and students, reflecting the core value of human relationships in student success. These technologies will also tackle key challenges like improving attendance, reducing behavioral issues, and supporting mental health, aligning with a broader focus on holistic student development. Evidence-based results will take precedence, as schools and stakeholders demand clear proof of edtech’s effectiveness in driving positive outcomes. This focus will ensure that technology is not just innovative but also impactful. Ultimately, the future of education will balance technological advancements with the enduring importance of human connection, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
–Katie Dorn, Co-Founder, EmpowerU & Senior Vice President, FullBloom
Instructional audio systems are most well-known for supporting effective instruction by delivering the teacher’s voice to every student, regardless of where they are seated in the classroom. But, as school safety remains a top priority in 2025, these systems have become an important tool in school safety and crisis management. They not only amplify teachers’ voices but also integrate with building communication systems, ensuring critical announcements reach every classroom and enabling teachers with the ability to send a mobile, discreet alert and initiate two-way calls to the office. Their safety function helps teachers manage emergencies, such as fights, medical crises, or active shooter situations, where every second counts. Further, their reliability and ease of use empower educators to focus on teaching while knowing they have immediate access to essential safety tools when needed. Instructional audio systems’ dual functionality and ability to seamlessly integrate with other technologies create secure and effective educational spaces that are defining the future of classroom technology.
—Shaun Fagan, Senior Vice President of Product, Lightspeed Technologies
The use of audiobooks, film, and other forms of media in the classroom became a hot topic in 2024 due to the common misconception that audiobooks don’t “count” as reading. But the truth is, the majority of K-12 librarians and educators agree with the research: comprehension is consistent regardless of the mode of consumption. Audiobooks bring a range of benefits, from expanding vocabulary and strengthening reading fluency to supporting learners with disabilities. Films also offer valuable opportunities for visual and experiential learning, enhancing comprehension and engagement in ways that traditional print materials may not. Together, they serve as accessible solutions for students who face difficulties with print, inspiring a love for reading and learning in new and engaging ways. Effective strategies to incorporate audiobooks and films include pairing them with classroom texts, providing them for independent exploration, and using them to introduce a variety of genres and topics. In 2025, we expect both audiobooks and film to further revolutionize classrooms, making learning more interactive and accessible for every student.
—Ryan Fish, EVP of Product, OverDrive
School safety planning will include educator voices. Educators want to have a seat at the table when it comes to school safety planning. Over 40 percent of educators have considered leaving or have left their jobs due to feeling unsafe; 80 percent regularly think of their own physical safety when at work. In 2025, we should do more to prioritize educator safety that enables teachers and staff to keep doing what they do best: educating and helping our students achieve. When school personnel are provided with protocols, tools and training we see ordinary people able to do extraordinary things. School improvement cannot happen without a healthy culture of safety for the teacher. Get them involved and keep our schools safe.
–Jay Floyd, Director, CENTEGIX, & Former K-12 Educator & Superintendent
School districts are increasingly partnering with local industries to offer real-world, hands-on experiences that prepare students to be career-ready. In the coming year, we will continue to see a growing number of these partnerships as well as a growing commitment to career readiness programs at the high school level which will empower students to pursue college or meaningful careers upon graduation. As such, middle school will remain a pivotal time to spark curiosity and initiate career exploration as students begin to discover their passions and see what’s possible for their futures. Building confidence in students’ ability to make a difference, aligning education with the evolving demands of the workforce, and creating clear career pathways will continue to gain momentum and be essential to the success of all students.
–Jill Hedrick, CEO, Vernier Science Education
With the right tools and vision, CTE can redefine how we prepare the next generation for a changing workforce. When you walk into a well-equipped CTE lab, it feels like stepping into the future–a future where students are learning with tools and environments that mirror the industries they aspire to join. As ESSER funding winds down, public school systems are under pressure to do more with less. District leaders want to avoid staffing cuts whenever possible, which means looking for cost savings elsewhere. After accumulating a glut of technology licenses over the past four years, administrators are taking a close look at those expenditures. As a result, districts are shifting away from ESSER-funded technology subscriptions in favor of free solutions that enjoy enthusiastic grassroots support in classrooms and communities. The K-12 communication and family engagement category is a prime example. There’s a growing recognition among district leaders that freely available communication and engagement solutions offer the same robust features and security/privacy of paid programs–without the budget impact. Reducing expenditures on products and reinvesting in staff is one big shift happening in K-12. I expect district leaders to continue prioritizing their people over technology licenses in 2025 and beyond.
—Dave Herron, Head of School Partnerships, ClassDojo
In 2025, Career and Technical Education (CTE) is poised to hit its stride, and I couldn’t be more excited about what that means for students across the country. We’re continuing to see a wave of investments in supplies and furniture that transform classrooms into immersive spaces that prepare students for workforce opportunities. What’s driving this momentum? For one, new grants and legislation are making it possible for more schools to expand their CTE offerings, particularly in underserved areas. They level the playing field and ensure every student has access to career exploration and skill-building opportunities. With the right tools and vision, CTE can redefine how we prepare the next generation for a changing workforce. When you walk into a well-equipped CTE lab, it feels like stepping into the future—a future where students are learning with tools and environments that mirror the industries they aspire to join.
—Sue Ann Highland, PhD, National Education Strategist, School Specialty
We’ll witness a fundamental shift in how we approach student assessment, moving away from conventional testing models toward more authentic experiences that are seamless with instruction. The thoughtful integration of AI, particularly voice AI technology, will transform assessment from an intermittent event into a natural part of the learning process. The most promising applications will be those that combine advanced technology with research-validated methodologies. Voice-enabled assessments will open new possibilities for measuring student knowledge in ways that are more natural and accessible, especially for our youngest learners, leveraging AI’s capabilities to streamline assessment while ensuring that technology serves as a tool to augment, rather than replace, the critical role of teachers.
–Kristen Huff, Head of Measurement, Curriculum Associates
More schools and districts will embrace game design as a pedagogic method for teaching STEAM skills. For years now, educators and education systems have re-centered curriculums around the concept of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math). However, while the benefits of exploring these subjects through an integrated lens are well-understood, the approach to teaching these individual disciplines often remains segmented. Game design naturally integrates elements from science (physics simulations, behavior modeling), technology (coding, game engines), engineering (system and structure design), arts (visual design, storytelling, and sound production) and mathematics (calculating trajectories, probabilities, and logic). Game design is also an excellent vehicle for engaging school students, with 85 percent of US teens already choosing to play video games in their spare time (Pew Center Research 2024). Additionally, game design exposes students to industry-standard tools (like Blender, Unity and Unreal Engine) and coding languages (such as Python, JavaScript and C#). And, like universities have for years, K-12 schools will increasingly integrate industry links into STEAM curriculum. Doing so will help ensure students are exposed to the latest trends in fast-paced technology sectors like game design, as well as build career pathways from an earlier age in areas like game development, software engineering, and data science.
–Mike Kawas, Co-Founder & CEO, GameU
Funding budgeting will be primary concerns going into the end of the current school year and the start of the 2025-2026 school year. With ESSER coming to an end and a change in federal administration, I think many schools will be very prudent and thoughtful about where they spend their available monies for the 2025 calendar year. This is a time of contraction where additional “initiatives” will be sparse, but going back and revisiting the expenses already made to maximize their previous purchases will be tantamount. I expect a much larger focus by administrators on professional development and training activities to show the ability of their teachers to be successful with their current assets while they wait for calmer financial environments.
–Chris Klein, VP of Educational Services, Avantis Education (Creators of ClassVR)
2025 will be a pivotal year for education technology as districts face increasingly constrained budgets and difficult decisions about their technology investments. The post-ESSER reality means schools must be more selective than ever, leading to what I anticipate will be a significant consolidation in the edtech market. This isn’t necessarily a negative development–it creates an opportunity to prioritize evidence-based solutions that demonstrably improve student outcomes. Districts will need to undertake the challenging work of evaluating their entire technology stack, making difficult choices about which tools truly deliver value for their students and teachers and have the strongest evidence of impact.
–Katy Knight, President & Executive Director, Siegel Family Endowment
We will see a greater push to support teachers with solutions to help older K-12 students with reading. In 2025, we will see a greater focus on providing research-backed solutions to support upper elementary and middle school students with reading. In a recent RAND study, commissioned by AERDF, we found that grade 3–8 teachers estimate that 44 percent of their students always or nearly always experience difficulty reading the written content within their instructional materials. We know that many students across the country are not reading on grade level. Recent research, from AERDF and ETS, has also confirmed a key barrier to reading proficiency, the decoding threshold, the point at which students can read grade-level text accurately and efficiently, allowing them to independently read for comprehension. Students who fall below this threshold in upper-level grades often will not improve, even with additional comprehension instruction. As we work to support older students who are struggling with reading, better assessments and evidence-based instructional materials will be rolled out to help support educators and students in addressing this issue.
—Rebecca Kockler, Executive Director for the Reading Reimagined Program, AERDF
I predict we’ll see a continued focus on addressing chronic absenteeism, with different potential solutions emerging at the elementary and secondary levels. For high school students we will see a heightened focus on how we make school a place that students see as relevant, engaging, and flexible enough to meet their individual needs. This includes how we use just-in-time supports to ensure they experience success, online learning to expand offerings, and career-connected learning and work-based experiences to bring postsecondary exploration and options to all. We have the privilege of working with a number of districts, small and large, that are re-imagining the secondary experience and are seeing higher engagement and graduation rates as a result.
–Amanda Kocon, Chief Strategy Officer, Edmentum
With enrollment in traditional four-year teacher prep programs continuing to decline to crisis levels–a drop of more than 30 percent in the past decade according to the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education–in 2025 we will see more high school students and paraprofessionals enter pathways to become future teachers. School districts are recognizing these two groups as the most promising pools of future teachers to enter our schools and are building pathways to support these community members in achieving their career goals, most often at no cost to the candidate–advancement-as-a-benefit done best by school district employers. The most innovative districts are creating programs that recruit and retain more diverse, less transient, highly committed aspiring teachers, and then celebrating their investments in the community. By leveraging local talent, districts will not only address teacher shortages, but also foster a renewed commitment to the community through a workforce that better reflects its diversity and needs.
—Jason Lange, Founder & President, BloomBoard
The new year will continue to see the topic of AI dominate the conversation as institutions emphasize the need for students to understand AI fundamentals, ethical considerations, and real-world applications outside of the classroom. However, a widening skills gap between students and educators in AI and digital literacy presents a challenge. Many educators have not prioritized keeping up with rapid technological advancements, while students–often exposed to digital tools early on–adapt quickly. This gap can lead to uneven integration of AI in classrooms, where students sometimes outpace their instructors in understanding. To bridge this divide, comprehensive professional development for teachers is essential, focusing on both technical skills and effective teaching strategies for AI-related topics. Underscoring the evolving tech in classrooms will be the need for evidence of outcomes, not just with AI but all tools. In the post-ESSER era, evidence-based decision-making is crucial for K-12 schools striving to sustain effective programs without federal emergency funds. With the need to further justify expenditures, schools must rely on data to evaluate the impact of educational initiatives on student outcomes, from academic achievement to mental health support. Evidence helps educators and administrators identify which programs truly benefit students, enabling them to allocate resources wisely and prioritize what works. By focusing on measurable results, schools can enhance accountability, build stakeholder trust, and ensure that investments directly contribute to meaningful, lasting improvements in learning and well-being.
—Melissa Loble, Chief Academic Officer, Instructure
With AI literacy in the spotlight, lifelong learning will become the new normal. Immediate skills need: The role of “individual contributors” will evolve, and we will all be managers of AI agents, making AI skills a must-have. Skills of the future: Quantum skills will start to be in demand in the job market as quantum development continues to push forward over the next year. Always in-demand skills: The overall increase in cyberattacks and emerging risks, such as harvest now and decrypt later (HNDL) attacks, will further underscore the continued importance of cybersecurity skills. Upskilling won’t end with AI. Each new wave of technology will demand new skills, so lifelong learners will thrive. AI will not be siloed to use among technology professionals. The democratization of AI technology and the proliferation of AI agents have already made AI skills today’s priority. Looking ahead, quantum skills will begin to grow in demand with the steady advance of the technology. Meanwhile cybersecurity skills are an evergreen need.
—Lydia Logan, VP of Global Education & Workforce Development, IBM
Safety-first connectivity in schools will become the norm: School connectivity will prioritize security and emergency preparedness alongside educational needs. Technologies like Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and integrated public safety networks will allow schools to set up immediate alerts, coordinate faster with emergency services, and lock down buildings quickly. These connectivity solutions will create safer learning environments and streamline emergency responses in real time. Comprehensive safety infrastructure will become essential in schools: As school safety concerns grow, educational institutions will adopt a holistic approach to connectivity that goes beyond WiFi, integrating cellular-based systems for first responder communications, occupancy and environmental sensing, and event detection. This multi-layered connectivity strategy will ensure that schools are equipped to handle a range of scenarios, from routine operations to emergency situations, ensuring swift and effective responses.
—Michiel Lotter, CEO & Co-Founder, Nextivity
Assessments will measure the skills that power learning, giving educators more modern and accurate tools to support today’s students. Current assessment tools weren’t developed with Gen Alpha in mind. Assessment needs to be redefined and modernized, so the tools used fit today’s students and the context in which they are learning. A student’s learning experience is about more than just mastering subject content. It also involves building confidence, self-awareness, goal initiation, and purpose as they encounter exciting and challenging opportunities. Identifying and measuring the core skills that power learning for all students, within and beyond the classroom will be a vital part of supporting student success. In 2025, we will see a greater focus on measuring these core levers that drive student learning. This shift will help give educators and learners more modern and accurate tools to support students’ individual needs as they navigate new learning opportunities.
—Dr. Temple Lovelace, Executive Director for the Assessment for Good Program, AERDF
Looking to 2025, I anticipate several key trends that will further enhance the fusion of educators, AI and multimodal learning. AI-powered personalization enhanced by multimedia: AI will deliver personalized learning paths enriched with various content formats. By adapting to individual learning styles–whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic–we can make education more engaging and effective. Expansion of multimodal learning experiences: Students will increasingly expect learning materials that engage multiple senses. Integrating short-form videos created and vetted by actual educators, interactive simulations, and audio content will cater to different learning preferences, making education more inclusive and effective. Deepening collaboration with educators: Teachers will play an even more critical role in developing and curating multimodal content. Their expertise ensures that the integration of technology enhances rather than detracts from the learning experience.
–Nhon Ma, CEO & Co-Founder, Numerade
With rapidly changing technology and evolving job markets, there is a growing emphasis on lifelong learning and skills development. In 2025, education will continue to shift from a finite stage of life to an ongoing process, with institutions offering more adult learning programs and skills-based education. The World Economic Forum suggests that more than 1 billion people will need reskilling by 2030, and 50 percent of all employees will need to upskill by 2025 to meet the demands of changing job markets. Institutions are on the path to creating more opportunities for individuals to upskill throughout their careers. This trend will lead to more short-term, industry-specific certifications, with partnerships between educational institutions and employers to address real-world skills gaps. By 2025, it’s anticipated that a significant percentage of professional development budgets will be dedicated to lifelong learning platforms. Additionally, AI in lifelong learning can create personalized development paths for employees, identifying and addressing skill gaps that align with industry needs and emerging job roles.
—Gaspard Maldonado, Head of SEO, Superprof
In 2025, we will see a push to save teachers’ time through better, more connected tools and systems. Currently, teachers are overwhelmed by navigating multiple, disconnected systems for assessments, curriculum, and student data. Today’s educators are expected to access too many disconnected tools, with different logins, to see a specific piece of their students’ academic health instead of a comprehensive picture. This extra administrative load takes away from time that could be spent on instruction and student engagement. Moving forward, education technology will increasingly focus on integration, with platforms designed to streamline assessments, provide real-time instructional insights, and eliminate unnecessary tasks. This approach will not only alleviate tech fatigue but also free up valuable time for teachers to focus on meaningful interactions with students, driving improved outcomes. The future of edtech will empower educators by working for them–not against them–marking a new era where tools seamlessly support instruction and reduce burdens on teachers.
—Chris Minnich, President, NWEA
As future career opportunities for students continue to evolve, we will continue to see more innovative CTE courses that support the new career cluster framework by Advance CTE and state CTE leaders. This includes an expansion of technology-infused classes, such as AI, computer science, and drone courses. There will continue to be an increase in CTE course offerings in 2025 and beyond especially as career-focused education remains a priority across the states.
–Dusty Moore, CEO, iCEV
K-12 districts are preparing for changes ahead, i.e. budget, in 2025. Significant reductions in federal funding will mean a sizable loss of financial support for a range of necessities, including edtech tools integral to learning. School districts used an average of 2,739 different tools in 2023-24, but 65 percent of those went unused. IT leaders will start making consolidation decisions based on total cost of ownership, considering what will provide a lasting impact rather than what’s cheapest right now. Edtech tools designed with the end user in mind, and which ensure everyone can be seen and heard, will be key. K-12 IT leaders who choose versatile, long-lasting solutions that are easy to use out of the box will get the best bang for their buck, aid district resiliency and come out ahead.
—Madeleine Mortimore, Global Education Innovation Manager, Logitech
Tutoring will be recognized for the impact it can have on college access. Tutoring will no longer be viewed solely as a tool to boost math and reading test scores for the lowest achieving students. School districts will increasingly recognize its potential in supporting broader goals for more students, in particular college access and upward economic mobility for the “middle majority” of students. Schools will recognize the powerful link between GPA and students’ confidence, career aspirations, and access to selective colleges and stronger financial aid offers–and scale tutoring accordingly. Scalable models will overtake high-dosage tutoring. As ESSER funds dry up, school districts will be looking to expand equitable access to tutoring by providing scalable, on-demand solutions. While high-dosage approaches have proven effective, they are inherently limited by reduced budgets, a limited pool of qualified tutors, and a lack of flexibility in implementation guidelines, ultimately making them difficult to scale more broadly. Expect to see greater experimentation in tutoring delivery, along with a shift towards partnerships with mission-driven nonprofits. These organizations are uniquely positioned to align their strategies with educational impact rather than profit, driving sustainable growth in student access.
—Aly Murray, Founder & Executive Director, UPchieve
Districts that prioritize direct-to-student engagement and integrate tutoring into teacher assignments will significantly boost student usage. Efforts like direct presentations to students and better communication with parents and teachers can double participation in tutoring programs. Some platforms leveraging this approach have achieved over 60 percent of school populations using tutoring. Direct engagement ensures students are not only aware of available resources but are also motivated to use them. Teacher-led integration further strengthens this impact by normalizing tutoring as part of a student’s academic journey and routine. When assignments are tied to tutoring support, students are more likely to access these services and schools can maximize the value of their tutoring investments.
—Aly Murray, Founder & Executive Director, UPchieve
The conversation around digital citizenship will continue to strengthen as schools prioritize teaching students to be ethical, critical consumers and creators of digital content. We’ll see more schools supporting their students in navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape while maintaining focus on joyful, impactful learning experiences.
–Tara Nattrass, Managing Director of Innovation Strategy, ISTE+ASCD
I predict in 2025 there will be an increased focus on bilingualism and multilingual education, and a push for more schools to participate in the Seal of Biliteracy program. Although the Seal of Biliteracy has been approved in all 50 states as a way to recognize students’ “superpower” of being bilingual, not all school districts use it. With more than 20 percent of U.S. students speaking a language other than English at home and research showing the multiple positive benefits of bilingualism, I predict this will be the year to move the needle on programs and recognitions that support bilingual students – both English Language Learners and native English speakers working to learn another language.
–Ulysses Navarrete, Executive Director, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS)
With SpaceX’s Starship reducing the cost of space payloads by another order of magnitude, the launch of satellites and economic activity in space will create an imperative for schools to actively prepare students for the space workforce. Simply put, space isn’t just for rocket scientists anymore–there are millions of jobs in Space IT, satellite manufacturing, science communications, and more, many of which not requiring a college degree. As such, this coming year and beyond, school and district leaders should focus on expanding their Earth and space science curriculum offerings to further engage students in authentic, real-world learning. This increased opportunity to explore and learn about the world around them will better prepare students to one day pursue a career in the growing, in-demand space and STEM industries.
–Michael Paolucci, Founder, Slooh
In 2025, I expect we’ll see exciting shifts in education that leverage technology to transform learning and assessment in meaningful ways: 1. Shift towards digital testing: Following the SAT’s transition to a digital format in 2024, the ACT is now set to go digital in 2025. This shift isn’t just about moving assessments online–it’s about making tests more efficient and accessible for students. Digital testing can help level the playing field, reducing logistical hurdles while allowing for adaptive question formats that better gauge individual abilities. 2. Integration of AI-driven learning tools: AI-powered tools are quickly becoming indispensable to the education landscape, especially in providing scalable, personalized support. These tools can serve as virtual tutors and study partners, enabling students to receive targeted assistance based on their unique strengths and weaknesses. I envision this technology empowering students who may not have access to private tutoring, allowing for equal opportunities to improve and succeed. 3. Focus on personalized learning: Education in 2025 will prioritize the unique needs of each student more than ever before. With data-driven insights, schools can customize learning experiences to support each student’s goals, learning style, and pace. This shift is about more than technology; it’s about recognizing that one-size-fits-all approaches no longer meet the demands of modern classrooms. As we continue to see these advancements, the future of education will be more flexible, inclusive, and tailored to prepare students not only for college but for lifelong success.
–Dr. Shaan Patel, MD, MBA, Founder & CEO, Prep Expert
Supplemental resources and high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) will be combined to better serve all students: Many states/districts are actively working on HQIM initiatives designed to form the foundation of a robust educational content strategy. Meticulously designed and aligned to standards, HQIM ensures that core concepts and skills are delivered to students. But HQIM alone cannot address the vast array of learning needs, paces, and interests present in any given classroom. In the coming year, I expect supplemental educational resources will be called to supplement HQIM in a way that better serves all students. In states and districts pursuing HQIM initiatives, supplemental resources will be integrated into teaching and learning to introduce content that relates directly to students’ interests or real-world applications of classroom lessons and make learning feel relevant and engaging. In addition, supplemental content will play a crucial role in the differentiation and personalization of learning by meeting students where they are in the learning process and helping them advance at their own pace. Finally, the visual aids, audiobooks, and bilingual resources often delivered by supplemental resources can make learning accessible to students who might otherwise struggle with standard HQIM. Together, HQIM and Supplemental content will offer a powerful new content option to educators and students.
—Lance Rougeux, Senior Vice President of Curriculum, Instruction, & Student Engagement, Discovery Education
As more states develop a profile of a graduate, the need for technical assistance, technological solutions, and resources for implementing competency-based education will grow. These supports will need to be more flexible, affordable, and accessible to districts and schools. School teams will seek scalable, sustainable professional learning models that include access to cohort and self-paced learning experiences, feedback from students and colleagues, and personalized guidance and support. I am excited to see an acceleration of competency-based education in 2025 as schools collaborate to catalyze change in their buildings.
—Antonia Rudenstine, Founder & Executive Director, reDesign
As we look toward 2025, high-impact tutoring will continue to be a critical strategy for addressing not only persistent learning gaps for students, but playing a key role in the pipeline of future teachers. I envision an important evolution. We’ll see a growing convergence of human connection and technological innovation that makes high-quality tutoring more scalable and accessible. The most effective programs will blend the irreplaceable elements of human mentorship–the relationships that build student confidence and engagement – with AI-enhanced tools that support tutor development and program quality. The future of tutoring isn’t about replacing human tutors with technology, but rather using technology to make human tutors more effective. AI will increasingly serve as a force multiplier, helping to coach tutors, personalize instruction, and measure impact.
–Alan Safran, Co-founder & CEO, Saga Education
School safety will be a pillar in supporting student achievement. Nearly 85 percent of educators believe that school safety directly impacts student achievement, and 80 percent believe that students have some level of concern for their safety while at school. In 2025 and beyond, districts must have a plan in place that eliminates any safety concerns for students while they are at school, or else we will see a rise in attendance and engagement issues, which can steer students down the paths of chronic absenteeism and delayed learning. School safety standards must be put into place to not only address incidents that occur on a daily basis, but also to support our students’ goals for the future.
–Dr. Roderick Sams, Chief Development Officer, CENTEGIX & Former K-12 Educator & Principal
The student mental health crisis is escalating rapidly, with no signs of abating by 2025. Alarmingly, 60 percent of students with major depression are not receiving the critical care they need. As the shortage of on-site mental health professionals continues, schools with limited resources are increasingly turning to teletherapy as an essential solution to fill the need for mental health support. One approach gaining traction is the use of online providers that implement universal screening. These tools allow schools to identify behavioral health issues early on–before they escalate into crises. This not only helps pinpoint mental health concerns but also deepens schools’ understanding of student behaviors. With this insight, schools can implement targeted, evidence-based interventions focused on building relational skills and addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which are known to contribute to long-term mental health struggles. As traditional, in-person care struggles to meet the demand for mental health support, online resources have become a crucial lifeline for schools. This reliance on digital providers ensures that all students are receiving the care they deserve, despite ongoing staffing shortages. This demand for online therapy and screening methods will only increase, giving students who typically lack that consistent support hope.
—Brandy Samuell, Director K-12 Mental Health & Related Services, eLuma
Market consolidation will continue: Edtech providers are in an unprecedented period of change that will have major implications for them and the teachers and students they serve. At Discovery Education we are calling this The Great Rationalization and Consolidation. During the pandemic, school districts made unprecedented investments in education technologies. Today, districts are carefully analyzing their edtech spending and rationalizing their purchases through a careful review of the usage data, alignment to outcomes, and evidence of learning. With data in hand showing which resources are working and which are not, school systems are consolidating their edtech spending on fewer, higher-impact services. The rationalization and consolidation of edtech spending dramatically turns up the heat on edtech providers. While school systems are evaluating the ROI of their edtech spending and categorizing it according to value and potential for improvement, edtech providers must demonstrate greater impact for school-based partners and continue to innovate and bring the school systems they serve even higher-quality digital products. I think that the net result is that school systems will see a tremendous burst of innovation from edtech providers in 2025 which will drive the creation of even more impactful learning experiences for students.
—Brian Shaw, CEO, Discovery Education
In 2025, we’ll see gaps in the necessary preparation of education leaders due to the rapid acceleration of career trajectories. As the current talent shortage pushes educators into leadership roles earlier in their careers, there will be an increased emphasis on evidence-based leadership development that can be rapidly deployed. This shift makes providing emerging leaders with research-backed guidance for creating impactful learning experiences across all educational settings even more crucial.
–Joseph South, Chief Innovation Officer, ISTE+ASCD
Data analytics and AI will be essential towards tackling the chronic absenteeism crisis. In 2025, the conversation around belonging will shift from abstract concepts to concrete actions in schools. Teachers who build strong relationships with both students and families will see better attendance and engagement, leading more schools to prioritize meaningful connection-building over quick-fix solutions. We’ll see more districts move toward personalized, two-way school communications that create trust with parents and the larger school community. In order to keep up with the growing need for this type of individualized outreach, schools will use data analytics and AI to identify attendance and academic patterns that indicate students are at risk of becoming chronically absent. It won’t be dramatic, but we’ll see steady progress throughout the year as schools recognize that student success depends on creating environments where both students and families feel valued and heard.
—Dr. Kara Stern, Director of Education and Engagement, SchoolStatus
More students than ever before are receiving special education services. In 2025, I expect technology to continue to make meaningful strides to help evaluate, identify, and serve these students. Digital tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to connect and cross-reference risks to help educators pinpoint which students need additional resources and attention. Technology platforms will continue to develop these tools, ensuring those on the front lines, interacting with students, have the right information and supports at their fingertips. We rely on educators to see and address students’ needs that often stretch beyond their training and expertise into specialized areas. Tech has the power to fill knowledge gaps in real time or connect them to experts. Moreover, advances in digital assessments will enhance our ability to flag which students need help and tailor that support–a need that’s more urgent than ever.
—Kate Eberle Walker, CEO, Presence
2025 will inevitably bring research-based instructional and curricular ideas. Flashy new technology and products will flood the education space as “must-haves” to shift the course of student learning. Fundamental to all the research and technology is the concept of students being literate. 2025 should be the year district leaders embrace a culture of disciplinary literacy, one in which every teacher, regardless of their subject matter, takes ownership of literacy instruction in their discipline. While it will continue to be the ELA teacher’s job to teach students grammar and basic composition skills, subject matter teachers are poised to teach the most effective ways to read and write in their disciplines. The idea behind disciplinary literacy is that the teacher-expert in the classroom is instructing students on how to read, analyze, and write in the subject area. It’s the science teacher’s role to guide students on how to understand scientific literature and to write with precise language, adhering to the form and structure of the content area. It’s the history teacher’s role to do the same for historical texts, making note of the context and relationship of the author to the topic. This type of thinking exists in all disciplines: reading, thinking, and writing like experts in that field. Principals also play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture of disciplinary literacy within their schools by equipping teachers with the resources and professional development they need to integrate literacy instruction into their respective content areas. This shift will be crucial in preparing students to communicate clearly and effectively in whatever field they pursue. While students can locate the “facts,” they need to know how to take the information, synthesize it, and write with fluency in the disciplines. To help students curate and showcase the writing they’ve done in all their different subjects, digital portfolios will become essential. These collections of student work facilitate student-led conferences, allowing learners to demonstrate growth and identify areas for improvement, rather than relying on teachers to drive the conversation. When students lead conferences and talk about their writing, they own their education. In other words, students become active participants in their education driving into areas of interests and aptitudes. As written communication becomes ever more central to our academic and professional lives, I see schools and districts adopting a more holistic, student-centered approach to literacy development, empowering learners and educators alike to embrace the shared responsibility of fostering strong communication skills.
–Paige Whitlock, Literacy Director, NoRedInk
