6 Predictions for Education and Workforce in 2025

Michael Horn predicts six key education and employment trends for 2025, including a rise in apprenticeships and work-based learning as alternatives to traditional college paths. Horn further suggests how education will become less linear, warns of possible college closures, and discusses experienced- based hiring and AI's impact on the process.

Additional Research & Resources:

• 8 Critical Experiences Needed to Be Head of School, Carney, Sandoe & Associates

• 10 Warning Signs of Financial Distress at Your School, NBOA



• Essential Communication Skills for Leaders, Center for Creative Leadership

• Federal Court Blocks Sweeping Title IX Rule for Schools Nationwide, Fisher Phillips

Fostering Positive Mindsets Through Reflection

Regular reflection helps students take ownership of their learning, embrace mistakes as growth opportunities, and move beyond blaming external factors. Edutopia shares two effective strategies that help students learn from their experiences. The "5 Whys" strategy involves a partnered dialogue using "why" questions to uncover root causes behind beliefs and challenges. The structured reflection method, “Start, Stop, Continue,” identifies behaviors to begin, end, and maintain for improvement.

Additional Research & Resources:

• How to Create a Volunteer Engagement Strategy That Actually Works, WildApricot

• How to Teach Neurodivergent Learners Stress Management, Life Skills Advocate



• More Than a Program: A Culture of Women's Wellbeing at Work, Gallup

• The Top 3 Tech Concerns Facing Private, Charter, and Independent Schools, EdTech

2025 Education Trends and Predictions

Global Online Academy maps out four pivotal trends exploring curiosity-driven learning and sharing how blended learning has evolved beyond the traditional online/offline divide. GOA predicts more students will actively seek “the power of pause,” describing how students themselves are starting to push back against constant digital engagement, seeking more authentic connections and moments of reflection. The article concludes by emphasizing how proactive school leadership and meaningful parent partnerships can overcome community resistance or skepticism.

Additional Research & Resources:

• 5 Education Innovation Trends to Watch in 2025, Christensen Institute

• Leveraging Technology to Assess Student Learning, Tech&Learning

• Where AI and Multimodal Learning Will Go in 2025, eSchool News

• Why All Kids Need More Time in Explorer Mode, Education Reimagined

Safety as a Value Proposition for Your School

Monzo Media explains that the most compelling value proposition for schools could be psychological safety. Creating an environment where students feel empowered to make mistakes without judgment, to express themselves freely, and to try new activities without apprehension can be a key differentiator. Authentic stories from students, parents, and alumni can demonstrate how the school supports personal growth and discovery, addressing what parents really seek - a place where their children can truly thrive.

Additional Research & Resources:

• 4 Proven Strategies to Boost Mid-Level Giving in 2025, NonProfit PRO

• School Marketing Predictions for 2025, Truth Tree

• The Power of Online Reviews: A Strategy for Private Schools, Enrollment Catalyst

• Top Tips for a More Effective Re-Enrollment Process, Kalix Marketing Group

Academic Support Conference

February 9-11, 2025, Charlotte, NC

Explore the latest research, resources, curriculum, and instructional strategies to help best support the diverse needs of all learners. Keynotes from psychologist Dr. Emily King and researcher Dr. Shelley Moore will focus on the impact of anxiety on neurodivergent students and how educational practices have transformed to embrace all learners. Choose impactful sessions from among four learning journeys: Student Support & Learning Strategies, Parent & Community Engagement, Professional Development & Reflective Practice, and Transitions & Future Planning. 

Upcoming Webinars:

• Leading the Future of Independent Schools - Insights for Aspiring Leaders: January 16, 12:00-1:00 PM EST

• Practical Strategies for Accelerating Your Annual Fund With AI: January 28, 12:00-1:00 PM EST

• Trustee Education Series: Legal Landscape & Hot Topics: February 4, 5:00-6:00 PM EST

• Rethinking Middle Level Leadership Development: February 6, 12:00-1:00 PM EST

• Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Teachers of Color in Independent Schools: February 18, 12:00-1:00 PM EST