Julia Rafal-Baer, CEO and Founder, Women Leading Ed and ILO Group.
The 2024 Nation’s Report Card paints a stark picture. Across the country, fourth- and eighth-graders continue to lose ground in reading. In math, scores are up in fourth grade but flat in eighth after historic drops two years ago. Overall, we are seeing widening gaps between high- and low-achieving students. These aren’t just statistical blips; they represent real students falling behind, raising pressing concerns about the future of our economy and workforce.
For business leaders, this is an inflection point and a call to action. Addressing these challenges is not just an education issue; it’s an economic imperative for the entire country. The next generation of workers—the talent pipeline for your companies—is being shaped by today’s classrooms. Without bold action, today’s learning losses will become tomorrow’s skill shortages.
Many companies already engage with schools through volunteer efforts, donations or classroom resources. While these contributions are meaningful, the magnitude of the challenges our schools face requires more. We need a broader, more strategic approach that focuses on scalable, sustainable solutions.
Career And Technical Education Programs
One of the most impactful ways I believe the business community can help is by championing career and technical education and providing strong apprenticeship opportunities coordinated with their local states and school districts. High-quality CTE programs can combine academic learning with real-world skills, preparing students for meaningful careers while helping them see the relevance of what they’re learning.
In the world’s best CTE systems, business plays a central role in shaping both the curricula and learning experiences for students. Some forward-looking leaders in states and districts across the country have embraced the role of employers and industry in strengthening career pathways and learning opportunities.
Take Indiana, for example. The state has built a nationally recognized youth apprenticeship model that integrates traditional academics with career pathways, allowing students to transition between classrooms and workplaces. Businesses partner with schools to define industry standards, ensuring that graduates are ready to step into roles that meet local workforce needs.
Similarly, Guilford County Schools in North Carolina is leading the district’s significant strides by linking learning to careers. Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley has prioritized partnerships with local businesses and philanthropic organizations to create career-connected education pathways, where students experience state-of-the-industry learning environments in their classrooms and on the job through internships and paid earn-and-learn apprenticeship experiences. These hands-on opportunities both engage students and more effectively prepare them for the future.
The Role Of Sports And Extracurriculars
CTE isn’t the only way to reengage students and improve outcomes. Extracurricular activities, including athletics, play a vital role in fostering student success. Programs like after-school sports or clubs can improve attendance, build confidence and teach teamwork—skills that translate to both academic and career success.
When I was a special education teacher in the Bronx, I started an after-school soccer club to encourage my students to get outside and stay active. What I didn’t expect was how it would impact their attendance and classroom performance. Students who had struggled to show up regularly began attending more consistently, and their academic progress followed.
As a parent of two young boys in Vermont, I see the same impact in my community. Local businesses support programs like cross-country skiing and after-school racing clubs. These activities help students feel connected, motivated and ready to learn.
How Business Leaders Can Drive Change
The business community has the resources, expertise and influence to make a meaningful difference at this critical time for our students. Here’s how:
1. Advocate for CTE Expansion.
Business leaders and employers can advocate for policies that prioritize high-quality CTE programs, flexible school schedules and meaningful certifications that align with industry needs.
2. Invest in School Partnerships.
Collaborate with districts to create internships, apprenticeships and mentorships that connect students with real-world opportunities.
3. Support Extracurricular Programs.
Fund athletic and after-school initiatives that build critical life skills and improve student engagement.
The data from the Nation’s Report Card is sobering, but it doesn’t have to define our future. Business leaders have a unique opportunity and a powerful capacity to help turn things around. By investing in education, advocating for systemic change and partnering with schools, business leaders can ensure today’s students—and tomorrow’s workforce—are equipped to succeed.
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