Edtech and Workforce Development News Roundup - 11/14
- Heather Harman
- Nov 14
- 4 min read
Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce development, and venture capital news.
In this week's News Roundup, we've found stories about leveraging innovative strategies, technology, and targeted interventions to address pressing educational and workforce challenges. From the resurgence of community colleges and non-degree credentials to the ethical integration of AI in classrooms and efforts to combat learning loss, a shared focus emerges on expanding access, improving quality, and preparing diverse student populations for the evolving economy. These insights underscore the critical role of edtech, policy, and workforce development in shaping a more equitable and resilient educational landscape.
Community colleges, certificates shine as fall enrollment hits 3-year stride – According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, postsecondary enrollment is projected to grow by 2% this fall, driven mainly by increases in community colleges and vocational certificates, with community colleges experiencing the highest growth at 4%. Fields like health professions, engineering technologies, and mechanics are seeing significant gains, while computer and information science enrollment continues to decline, especially at the graduate level. Demographic shifts show rising enrollments among Hispanic, Black, and multiracial students. Edtech and workforce development companies can capitalize on this trend by developing targeted digital training programs, vocational certifications, and skill-specific platforms that support the growing demand for workforce-aligned credentials, particularly in high-demand fields like health, engineering, and trades, to meet the evolving needs of diverse student populations and employers.
AI could worsen inequalities in schools – teachers are key to whether it will – To prevent inequality from AI in education, edtech and workforce development companies must prioritize equitable access, comprehensive training, and ongoing support for teachers, especially in under-resourced schools. Given teachers' ambivalence and lack of professional development, companies should develop user-friendly tools accompanied by tailored training programs to help teachers integrate AI effectively without increasing workload. It is crucial to preserve the relational aspect of teaching by designing AI solutions that support, rather than replace, meaningful teacher-student interactions. Additionally, companies need to collaborate with schools to ensure equitable implementation and avoid exacerbating existing disparities, ultimately empowering teachers to harness AI as a tool for inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Non-degree credentials are surging. But the data is lagging – Pew Charitable Trusts reports that over the past decade, non-degree credentials such as certifications, boot camps, micro-credentials, and apprenticeships have seen a threefold increase in popularity, with up to one-third of U.S. adults now holding such credentials. Edtech companies play a crucial role by offering innovative, flexible learning platforms that facilitate these short-term programs, many of which students pay for out of pocket due to limited access to financial aid. Workforce development organizations and government initiatives, including state funding and the Workforce Pell program, are actively supporting and regulating these credentials to ensure quality and accountability. Accreditation bodies are also establishing standards to verify program quality, further integrating edtech and workforce development efforts to meet evolving workforce needs and improve access to affordable, effective training.
How these 3 states are fighting chronic absenteeism – Chronic absenteeism has significantly increased nationwide, prompting states to adopt various strategies to address it. Edtech can play a vital role in this effort by enhancing data collection and monitoring through tools that provide real-time attendance insights to schools and families. Early warning systems powered by EdTech can identify at-risk students and trigger timely interventions, such as targeted outreach or personalized engagement strategies. Additionally, digital platforms can facilitate family engagement and communication, fostering stronger home-school connections. Investments in online counseling, virtual wraparound services, and interactive learning can also help sustain student engagement, especially for vulnerable populations. Overall, leveraging edtech to improve data-driven decision-making, personalized support, and communication can be instrumental in reducing chronic absenteeism and promoting student attendance.
Higher quality jobs could be an impact silver lining as PE firms hold companies longer – Private equity firms are increasingly adopting a "holdco" model, holding onto companies for longer periods to focus on sustainable, long-term value creation rather than short-term profits. This shift involves holding companies on their own balance sheets, with KKR leading the way by establishing its strategic holdings unit to manage assets indefinitely. As market conditions delay exits, private equity firms are exploring alternative pathways like secondary and continuation funds. Longer holding periods prompt a focus on human capital, emphasizing fair wages and quality jobs, with some firms recognizing that investing in employees enhances long-term performance. This evolving approach aligns with broader trends toward sustainable and responsible investing, positioning holding companies as potential successors to traditional private equity, especially for mission-driven and socially conscious businesses.
The Looming $90 Trillion Cost of Learning Loss — and the Policy Solutions to Address It – Edtech and workforce development companies play a crucial role in reversing learning loss and securing America's economic future. Implementing evidence-based educational practices, such as targeted assessments, high-quality instructional materials, and professional development, can help improve literacy and math proficiency. States like Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama demonstrate success by using data-driven strategies, including early intervention with screeners and increased math instruction, which have led to notable gains. By investing in effective personnel, leveraging technology, and maintaining rigorous accountability, schools can accelerate student achievement, close performance gaps, and ensure students acquire the foundational skills needed for higher earnings and a competitive workforce, ultimately boosting national economic growth.
As the education and workforce sectors navigate rapid changes driven by demographic shifts, technological advancements, and economic pressures, stakeholders must prioritize inclusive, innovative solutions that support both learners and educators. By fostering collaboration across sectors and embracing flexible, high-quality credentials, we can create pathways for lifelong learning and sustainable employment, ultimately strengthening our collective future.
