Equity and the Future of Work
March 3, 2021
It’s hard to think about the future right now because it seems so uncertain. But educators and economists are already beginning to do so.
What they are seeing ahead is an economy disrupted by a pandemic that is reshaping the career prospects of today’s K-12 students, especially the most vulnerable ones. That is why experts say it will be urgent for schools to help students of color, English-language learners, students with special needs, and kids from economically poor families adjust to these changes.
If schools do not take action, experts warn, the career opportunity gaps that already exist will grow even wider.
What they are seeing ahead is an economy disrupted by a pandemic that is reshaping the career prospects of today’s K-12 students, especially the most vulnerable ones. That is why experts say it will be urgent for schools to help students of color, English-language learners, students with special needs, and kids from economically poor families adjust to these changes.
If schools do not take action, experts warn, the career opportunity gaps that already exist will grow even wider.
- College & Workforce Readiness Thanks to COVID-19, High Schoolers' Job Prospects Are Bleak. Here's How Schools Can HelpThe economic fallout from COVID-19 is speeding up workforce changes and vulnerable students are at greater risk of falling behind.Future of Work Top U.S. Companies: These Are the Skills Students Need in a Post-Pandemic WorldBlue Cross Blue Shield, Delta, Apple, and others make the case for schools to help students develop resilience, adaptability, and empathy.College & Workforce Readiness Student Interest in Health-Care Careers Takes Off During PandemicThe coronavirus crisis is boosting a trend toward health-care and medical pathways. The challenge is getting students hands-on training.Future of Work From Our Research Center The COVID-19 Economy Is Putting Vulnerable Students' Career Prospects at High RiskThe EdWeek Research Center conducted a survey of educators to understand which students are now most at risk for job limitations.Future of Work How Virtual Learning Is Falling Short on Preparing Students for Future CareersThe pandemic is helping some students gain virtual working skills, but many are being left behind.Future of Work Q&A How to Get More Students of Color Into STEM: Tackle Bias, Expand ResourcesMathematician and former National Football League player John Urschel on what it will take to see more students of color in STEM careers.