Originally published on Real Clear Education on July 7, 2023
According to a recent Gallup Poll, students in grades five through 12 say that their traditional brick-and-mortar school isn’t preparing them for college or the workforce: 49% of students surveyed rank their school as satisfactory or below satisfactory when it comes to preparing them for the future.
This poll highlights an alarming trend: a clear disconnect between what we’re teaching students in schools and what they’re facing in the real world.
To help bridge that gap, we can empower students and help them chart a successful path forward – whether that means college, the military, or the larger workforce – in three important ways.
Emphasize Practical Skill Development
School isn’t just about textbook knowledge or how many dates and figures one can memorize; it’s about providing students with hands-on experience that simulates real-world scenarios. By integrating practical skill development into the curriculum, we can bridge the gap between theory and application.
According to a 2020 report by the Brookings Institute, students who participate in work-based learning programs have a higher likelihood of employment and increased earnings after high school. Career learning courses, internships, and apprenticeships are just a few of the ways that schools can provide exposure to various industries and help students garner firsthand experience and develop relevant skills.
Strengthen Durable Skills (a.k.a. Soft Skills)
While technical skills are vital, the demand for durable skills continues to rise. According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, 97% of employers believe that skills like effective communication, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership are essential attributes for career success. That means schools must prioritize opportunities for students to develop these capacities – whether that entails group projects and presentations or enrichment and extracurricular activities. By focusing on developing durable skills, we can equip students with the tools they need to thrive in any professional environment.
Foster Entrepreneurial Mindsets and Promote Financial Literacy
Encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills can ignite both innovation and imagination. By instilling an entrepreneurial mindset in students, we can prepare them to navigate the dynamic job market and adapt to new challenges. Through entrepreneurial-minded assignments and project-based learning opportunities – assignments that mimic the real-world working environment – we can cultivate students’ ability to think creatively and explore their own ideas.
Financial literacy is an often overlooked yet crucial aspect of daily life. By incorporating personal finance education into coursework, schools can empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions involving money. Understanding budgeting, savings, and basic investing principles can contribute to their long-term financial well-being.
Preparing high school students for the workforce requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond what we’ve seen in education for generations. Together, we can meet students where they are. And together, we can create engaging and relatable learning environments that equip our future workers with the tools they need to succeed.
Amy Marsh is Superintendent of Schools at K12, a Stride company.
