I had the chance to attend the November 2024 EdWeek Market Brief Summit last week in Denver, CO and it was a great experience. Over three jam packed days I came away with great insights into the future of K-12 education. Here are the top 5 things I took away from the event:

1. Innovation in Funding & Product Development

The first thing that really stood out was how creative school districts are getting with their funding. With stimulus money a thing of the past, districts are looking for ways to stretch their budgets—especially when it comes to areas like professional development, SEL, and ELL. Vendors who can demonstrate financial alignment and offer scalable, adaptable solutions to districts will set themselves apart in this new era of education.

2. AI in Education

AI is definitely making its way into the classroom, but with few standards in place there’s still a great deal of uncertainty about how it should be used. While AI does have the potential to personalize learning in amazing ways there are also concerns about data privacy and the risks involved. It’s essential to make sure that AI products meet the needs of teachers and students, while also making sure they’re safe and compliant with privacy laws.

3. Cybersecurity & Data Privacy

It’s no surprise, but cybersecurity and data privacy are top priorities for school districts right now. With everything moving online, companies need to prioritize student data security to gain district trust. It is essential to make sure your products are fully secure and comply with the growing body of regulations relates to student data privacy. 

4. Curriculum Choices

Districts are moving away from rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum to more modular, adaptable resources. There’s especially a push for products that re-engage students in math and the “Science of Reading” approach continues to gain traction, particularly in middle and high schools. Companies that offer tailored, adaptable curriculum solutions will be better positioned in this shifting market.

5. Cultural Sensitivity in Today’s Climate

In the current political and social climate, school districts are dealing with complex challenges related to cultural issues and curriculum content. Political and cultural debates, particularly around social-emotional learning (SEL), are influencing purchasing decisions, and vendors must tread carefully when discussing these topics with school districts. The key is to focus on student outcomes while respecting the diverse values within each community.

The Summit provided great insight into the current state of the K-12 education market. With federal funding changes, the rise of AI, the increasing emphasis on data privacy, and shifting curriculum preferences, the landscape is evolving rapidly. Education companies and must stay agile, adaptable, and aware of the trends shaping the future of education.

If you’re looking to navigate these changes in the K-12 market or need guidance on how to align your ed-tech products with district priorities, I’d love to help. Get in touch with me at MRCC EdTech for a consultation, and let’s explore how we can take your product strategy to the next level in today’s rapidly evolving education environment.