The real issue is not whether students pursue education after high school but whether they have access to affordable, high-quality programs that lead to real opportunity.
Roxanne Garza
Director of Higher Education Policy, EdTrust
Aileen Ma
Policy Lead PreK-College Pathways to Postsecondary Success, EdTrust
The job market is changing quickly. New technologies like AI are reshaping how we learn and work, and more jobs now require education or training beyond high school. For students and families, that raises an urgent question: Which pathways lead to stable, well-paying jobs — and which ones help people build the lives they want?
Today’s learners include not only recent high school graduates, but also adults returning to education to gain new skills. They have more options than ever: two- and four-year degrees, apprenticeships, and short-term training programs. But more choice does not mean more clarity. Costs are rising, outcomes are not always transparent, and many students lack the guidance needed to make informed decisions.
Too often, the conversation suggests that college is not the right option for some students or that employers are moving away from degrees altogether. In reality, many alternatives to a four-year degree still exist within post-secondary education, especially at community colleges. And while skills-based hiring is growing, most employers continue to value credentials and degrees. The real issue is not whether students pursue education after high school but whether they have access to affordable, high-quality programs that lead to real opportunity.
Define goals early
At EdTrust, our vision is straightforward: Every student and family deserves access to clear information and strong preparation so they can make real, informed choices. When those elements are in place, students can pursue the futures they choose.
That work must start early. Too many students are not exposed to the full range of careers available to them, nor do they have opportunities to explore college and career pathways or participate in work-based learning. As a result, opportunity is shaped by access, not just potential. Students should begin exploring careers in middle school, with support from counselors and families. They also need strong reading and math skills to succeed in rigorous coursework, including key milestones like Algebra I, along with guidance from trusted adults who can help them navigate their options.
Real value is intentional
In high school and beyond, learners should have access to advanced coursework, skills-based learning, and clear information about college, training programs, and financial aid. They should understand how to move from where they are to where they want to go, whether that means transferring from a two-year to a four-year institution or building skills through stackable credentials over time. Just as important, they need transparent information about the short- and long-term value of these pathways so they can make sound decisions.
Education matters more than ever, but its value depends on whether students are supported in choosing and completing pathways that truly open doors. That also means listening to what learners want for their futures and ensuring those pathways reflect their goals. It is up to schools, policymakers, employers, and communities to provide that support early and consistently, so no door is closed before it is even seen.
