COVID T H E Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders - The Hunt Institute
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SEPTEMBER 2021 T H E COVID C O N S T I T U E N C Y Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders WRITTEN BY: G O V E R N O R B O B W I S E A N D D R . J AVA I D S I D D I Q I
2 3
SPECIAL THANKS
The Hunt Institute and
Prologue
Governor Bob Wise sincerely Spring 2025. It is commencement season at a high
thanks its funding partner, school and the pandemic threat is finally gone.
Carnegie Corporation of Educators, school board members, and other elected
New York, whose support officials swirl amidst the happy parents of graduating
was essential in creating and students. After the ceremony, a TV camera suddenly
disseminating this report.
appears, and a microphone is thrust into a district
leader’s face.
“A quick question,” says the interviewer.
“In 2020, COVID-19 shut down our schools. Everyone
suffered in some way. Then, the state and district
received massive amounts of funding to be spent over
almost four years.”
“After all this uprooting, common sacrifice, and record
resources, how have you made this education system
better than what it was?”
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders4 5
Table of Contents
FOREWORD 6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 8
INTRODUCTION
Who is the COVID Constituency? 10
RETURNING TO “NORMAL” IS NOT AN OPTION
The Inadequacies and Widening Chasms of the Pre-Pandemic Education System 14
A COVID CONSTITUENCY EAGER FOR CHANGE HAS FORMED
Concerns and Priorities of the New Movement 22
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS: MOVING FROM
TRANSITION TO TRANSFORMATION
Planning and Funding Considerations for Bold Change 36
CONCLUSION
On The Path Towards Transformation 40
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders6 7
In March 2020, when COVID-19 shut down At the same time there is large public support
early learning programs, K-12 schools, and for major education change, the U.S. Congress
college campuses for over 98 million U.S. approved record funding to support restoring
children, youth and college students, our the education system—from sanitizing schools
nation began a unique shared experience. to making up lost learning. Three COVID-19
Many millions more parents with homebound federal relief measures totaling almost $300
students were made acutely aware of the billion for education, and another $350 billion
importance of child care, schools, teachers, for state and local governments that can also
and access to technology. support education initiatives, provide the
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for far-reaching
While this rare convergence of Americans— improvements in most educational systems.
the COVID Constituency—desires a return
to the “normal” of in-person schooling, they While the federal relief funds must be
understand that COVID-19’s impact requires committed and spent by 2024, state and local
major improvements to the education system. leaders have extensive flexibility for short- and
Seventy-six percent of parents polled say long-term planning.
education is in crisis. Seventy-one percent of
U.S. adults are concerned about K-12 student Almost two years of shared sacrifice has created
academic progress, a trend across parties and an unexpected public movement that supports
income levels. Sixty-six percent of parents significant action. The COVID Constituency is
would rethink how we educate students. Faced asking for education transformation at a time
with their children’s individual academic and when large federal relief investments have been
social-emotional struggles, the emerging COVID made available. For elected policymakers and
Constituency desires personalized learning and education leaders, this is an unprecedented
whole child approaches. moment when they have ample resources, strong
public support, and necessary flexibility to take
As schools moved toward reopening this fall, the bold actions that provide students with the
stressed state and local education leaders education systems they need and deserve. The
understandably strove to restore some of the time to act is now.
“norm” that existed prior to the pandemic. Yet
in moving from a triage to a transition phase,
education leaders know that the pandemic
completely exposed equity gaps, student
Foreword
wellness concerns, and learning disparities. The
process that leads from triage to transition must Gov. Bob Wise Dr. Javaid Siddiqi
meet immediate needs while also incorporating
actions for long term transformation.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders8 9
Americans care deeply about education issues. • Expanding early learning and child care With the approval of the three federal
Their shared experiences during the COVID-19 opportunities. Three in four voters— COVID-19 relief packages—the Coronavirus Aid,
pandemic have heightened their sensitivity to including 63 percent of Republicans and Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES), the
the shortcomings of the education system and 86 percent of Democrats—stated that Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental
have fostered a vision for change. The COVID elected leaders should make child care Appropriations Act (CRRSA), and the American
Constituency, comprising a growing movement and early learning a priority in 2021. Rescue Plan (ARP)—most school districts have
of parents, teachers, students, education leaders, an unprecedented infusion of dollars through
• Ensuring postgraduate success in higher
Executive
and organizations, desires systemic changes 2024 that can complement education needs,
in education, rather than a reversion back to education. 47 percent of college students such as providing job training or wraparound
our pre-pandemic system. As state and district expressed interest in career planning services. District and education leaders should
policymakers consider how they want to use their services, while 42 percent wanted student not be daunted by the administrative guidelines,
life services, such as mental health support.
Summary
federal dollars for education transformation, it is regulations, and prescribed time limits for
imperative that they tap into the experiences and obligating these funds, as states and districts
• Investing in job skills and workforce training.
priorities of the communities that have the most have extensive flexibility in redesigning and
More than nine in ten Americans believe
at stake. improving a school system. We recommend
investing in opportunities that pair education
that education leaders use this flexibility to its
An in-depth analysis of national polls since the and job-skills training with paid work would
advantage in the following ways:
start of the pandemic reveals the top concerns be an effective approach in helping people
for education stakeholders: learning loss, gain qualifications for good jobs. • States should allow latitude in the approval
low quality curricula, and lack of support for and review process to maximize the use of
Effectively moving from education triage
underserved students. Additional concerns federal relief funds at the local level. States
and transition to transformation requires a
in the early childhood and higher education must give districts and their schools space
thoughtful and intentional planning process.
sectors indicate that the COVID Constituency and time to adjust, receive feedback, plan
The following suggestions offer practical steps
spans the education continuum. Looking forward, strategically, and take bold action.
that policymakers and education leaders can
the public wants to see the following actions
take as they work towards reshaping education • Local districts should use this flexibility to
prioritized in education:
over the next three years: revise their plans and take the time needed
• Personalizing the learning experience. to build the desired system. Since a district
1. Redefine desired learning objectives, then
78 percent of adults agree that students does not have to lock in its long-term plan
plan how to achieve them.
learn better through personalized instruction. immediately after the state receives approval
2. Determine what lessons have been learned of its plan, local leaders should use this time
• Integrating whole child support systems. to develop constituent-informed decisions.
from the COVID-19 shutdown and what is
Eight in ten parents support structured
valuable to retain or expand.
social, emotional, and mental health support • States and localities must think about what
for their child. 3. Constantly emphasize that the goal is not funding can be reserved for long-term
to add more layers of activity to already change efforts, especially as reserving federal
• Addressing the digital divide and leveraging dollars will offer the greatest opportunity
stressed teachers and learners.
technology. More than eight in ten parents to institute major systems change for the
believe that expanding computers and high- 4. Utilize the COVID Constituency to build foreseeable future.
speed internet access for students should support for moving beyond restoration to
be a priority for schools when using federal a vastly improved education system for The opportunity is here to reshape education in
funding, while more than eight in ten teachers their children. America for the good of all students.
believe that providing all students with free
universal high-speed internet access is a 5. Respect time needed for emotional and
critically important federal investment. physical recovery.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders10 11
1. Introduction
The P-20 (pre-kindergarten, K-12 and Issues such as economic imperatives, national
postsecondary) public education system has a security concerns, and social unrest generated
long history in the United States and continues unavoidable motivations for traditionally A mass
to play a complex role in our society. It is often slow-changing education systems to respond movement is
prone to scrutiny, yet slow to change. There to crises. Yet even during these times, there
WHO IS THE COVID CONSTITUENCY? are times, however, when major events have was not always a united public to support bold converging that
driven significant developments. Millions of policymakers. In many instances, new education
supports the
returning WWII veterans pushed the enactment policies were developed ahead of a clear public
From 2020 to 2021, the United States has been gripped in the of the GI Bill, resulting in a massive expansion consensus, which, in turn, engendered decades transformation
of education opportunities and institutions. The of debate over implementation.
of education in
throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a cataclysmic Soviet Union launching Sputnik in 1957, sparked
massive investments in science and math. Now comes 2021, and with COVID-19 still this country.
unresolved, the U.S. once again finds itself
disruption of its education system. Unparalleled in how it has Simultaneously, the civil rights movement
struggling with an unprecedented disruption of
began the long process of school integration.
its educational systems. Unlike other ground-
affected the entire population, the pandemic is an opportunity The publication of A Nation at Risk in 1983 shaking moments in education, the initial
starkly highlighted the concerns of national response will come not from national or state
to spur significant changes to 21st century education. education, business, and political leaders, stating leaders but instead from parents and families
that the world was “…matching and surpassing across the country who have shared the same
our educational attainments.” It also noted that searing experiences. As a result of the COVID-19
in 1982, President Reagan called for public pandemic, a mass movement is converging that
awareness and action “…to create a resurgence supports the transformation of education in this
of that thirst for education that typifies our country. Unlike previous momentous events,
Nation’s history.” This national call to action state and local policymakers and educators find
prompted decades of policy change in education that broad public interest has been joined
that resulted in publicly available information by a period of once-in-a-lifetime resources
on students and schools, along with many from the federal government, imparting an
other reforms. opportunity to make dramatic and necessary
changes to the education system.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders12 13
In March 2020, the sense of normalcy we and technology availability. The two-income However, past examples point to reasons for Some states even found themselves with
all had come to know abruptly halted as the middle class family was able to access basic hope. In the last century, the United States unexpected surpluses of state funds. For
United States implemented lockdowns across support more readily than the single parent laid recovered from an economic depression example, California, projecting a massive deficit If this country
the country to mitigate the effects of the off from a minimum wage service job. However, and two world wars. Each recovery brought only a year ago, now appropriated a FY2022 wants to move
global coronavirus pandemic. These closures regardless of their situations, most families with it dramatic changes to our economy, $75.7 billion dollar surplus despite pandemic
had a direct impact on families, educators, and became far more aware of the importance of society, and educational systems. There closures. These massive infusions of federal, toward strong
students, from prekindergarten to grade 20. teachers, child care, counseling, and connectivity. is no reason to think this crisis will be any state, and local dollars present a once-in-a-
pandemic
different, as massive disruption causes major lifetime opportunity to build the school
were pulled from the
classroom in March 2020
• 50 million K–12 and 20 million While the pandemic may have illuminated the shifts in attitudes and actions. The COVID-19 systems that people desire. recovery,
importance of the U.S. education system, it
higher education students were pandemic is unparalleled in its national and
the slow trickle
also exposed vast inequities and the need for worldwide application. Join it with the resulting The COVID-19 pandemic is the single greatest
pulled from their classrooms systemic change. This was further reinforced employment downturn and resurgence of shared experience since WWII. The general of education
within several weeks by the heightened social unrest over racial social unrest, and this becomes a pivotal public emerged with a much greater awareness
injustice. Even though states, schools, educators, moment for education. of education and what it needs to make a change we have
• More than 60 million adults were and communities worked hard to provide an difference for all learners. Their motivation
experienced
forced to be teachers, caregivers, education amid a pandemic, the fact is that At the same time, every state and school district is born from adversity and endurance. These
and chief technology officers to millions of students lost significant amounts now has access to an unparalleled amount of issues make clear that it is time for education must become a
of learning time and related services for federal relief dollars. In addition to the federal leaders and policymakers to listen to the
were forced to be
teachers, caregivers, their homebound children
government dedicating $300 billion dollars newly-formed coalition and make dramatic
national torrent.
months on end. Parents witnessed firsthand
and chief technology
the struggles their children experienced and directly to education, it also directed another and necessary changes to the education
officers to their
• 3.2 million teachers, 1.7 million
homebound children now fear that significant declines in their $350 billion to state and local governments system. Mounting evidence and data show
postsecondary faculty and academic and social-emotional development to be used as discretionary funding that that the COVID Constituency, a growing public
instructors, and millions more will have long-term consequences. can support education efforts. Additionally, movement across the country, understands and
non-academic staff were Congress approved a temporary boost in funds supports education change and transformation.
If this country wants to move toward strong that can support child care and development.
similarly forced into new pandemic recovery, the slow trickle of education
teaching environments change we have experienced must become a
national torrent. Efforts at recovery that ignore
The pandemic closed school and business doors,
the inequities and shortcomings in the education
and, as a result, citizens across the country
were forced into system will jeopardize short– and long-term
new teaching found themselves in a shared experience unlike
outcomes—not just of students and families but
environments any other; one that impacted their view on how
of communities and the economy.
essential education is in this country. Certainly,
many families’ experiences differed greatly
based on economic situation, race, geography,
were dedicated directly to
education, and another $350
billion were directed to state and
local governments, who can decide
to use the discretionary dollars to
support education efforts
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders14 15
2. Returning to “Normal”
is Not an Option
THE INADEQUACIES AND WIDENING CHASMS OF
THE PRE-PANDEMIC EDUCATION SYSTEM
In less than a month, the coronavirus pandemic disrupted the Yet even during “normal” times, the U.S. It forced a persistent spotlight on issues in the
education system that existed pre-COVID-19 education system that have long existed but had
Yet even during
normal routine of education systems across the country and the had many shortcomings, notably the chronic yet to be adequately addressed at the national,
gaps in access and opportunities many students state, or local levels. As the push to reopen “normal”
world, requiring schools to close to keep children and staff safe. experienced. The coronavirus pandemic schools continues, it is crucial to recognize that
times, the U.S.
accelerated longstanding negative trends and returning to “normal” is not an option.
As a result of these lockdowns, schools across the United States widened disparities among students, creating
education system
chasms within the education system.
could not provide basic services such as food distribution, social that existed
pre-COVID-19
engagement, counseling, extracurricular activities, and more. Shortcomings of the Education System Prior to the Pandemic
had many
Suddenly, even the baseline education system was shut down.
Far too many young children, youth, and adults books, news articles, and opinion pieces share
shortcomings,
in the U.S. experience an education system stories or views about the failings of education
that frustrates individual learners trying to beginning in early childhood and continuing into notably the
achieve their goals. This kind of system denies the workforce. Many of these shortcomings have
the nation an engaged, high-achieving citizenry existed for years and are deeply engrained in the
chronic gaps
and workforce. Education’s inadequacies do policies and practices that drive the education in access and
not lack examination, however. A plethora of system in this country.
opportunities
many students
experienced.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders16 17
Early Childhood K-12 Education
Quality child care is critical for young children’s • On average, an early educator earns The K-12 system provides access to free, there were similar findings for
progress and success over time and provides compulsory public education that prepares
$12.12 per hour, making it one of students from lower-income
families the ability to join the workforce. Despite students for the future, building on the
its importance, many families lack access to the the lowest paid jobs in the U.S. foundation that begins in early childhood. households. This disparity
On average, an early educator resources and programming needed to support The system gives students and families worsened significantly during
earns $12.12 per hour, one of the • Around 50 percent of early
lowest paying jobs in the U.S
the development of young children. Even though access to both academic and non-academic COVID-19- related school
child care is critical for a strong economy and educators need public assistance. learning opportunities, yet many students
shutdowns and universal provided less total school funding per
workforce, it can be hard to find and costly, experience a vastly different education than student in 2017 than in 2008, showing
leaving out significant numbers of young • Annual median cost for infant others do. A school’s location, as well as the
reliance on virtual learning. that school funding had not yet
recovered from pre-Great Recession
children and families across the country. care at a child care center is students’ home and economic situations, levels prior to the pandemic
• In 2018-19, U.S. public graduation
Caregivers are also among those lowest paid in $10,759 with a range across the greatly influence key factors such as school
the U.S., even though a college degree is often funding, teacher experience and credentials, rates for students with disabilities
country from $5,307 to $23,666.
required. Child care disparities vary from state to school infrastructure, availability of counseling was at 68 percent compared to the
state, but national trends of inequitable cost and For someone earning the federal services, and much more. Students from U.S. overall high school graduation
availability, as well as low wages for caregivers, minimum wage of $7.25/hour various demographic categories often endure
rate of 86 percent.
need public assistance have long been a struggle for the early childhood working full-time, out-of-pocket an education system that struggles to provide
sector and families. equitable access, resources, opportunities,
child care costs could consume • In 2017-18, within the
and outcomes. Furthermore, at almost every
35-157% of pre-tax income income level, U.S. students perform poorly on
approximately 3 million students lack internet access
to do homework
for one child. international benchmarks, a concern for global who participated in Advanced
competitiveness in the job market. Placement (AP) courses, only
• Median cost for 4-year-olds at a
18 percent were Hispanic,
child care center is $8,672 with • The 2019 National Assessment
13 percent were Black, and
median cost for infant care at a
a range across the country from of Educational Progress (NAEP),
child care center with a range
10 percent were American Indian.
across the country from $5,307-
$23,666. For someone earning
$4,670 to $18,657. often designated “the nation’s
the proposed minimum wage of scorecard,” shows relatively little • In 2015–16, students in high
$15.00/hour, out-of-pocket child
• In many states, there is only
care could consume 20-33% of advancement in reading and math poverty schools had less access The U.S. public graduation
pre-tax income for one child
enough child care available
proficiency for most states. to advanced science and rates for students with
for 1 in 5 children. disabilities in 2018-2019
mathematics coursework that
• In 2018, the U.S. placed 13th in
prepared students for college.
reading and ranked 30th in math
on the Program for International • In 2017, seven states provided
median cost for 4-year-olds Student Assessment (PISA). less total school funding per
at a child care center with a
range across the country from student than they had in 2008,
$4,670-$18,657 • In 2018, Pew Research Center
showing that school funding
found that the digital “homework
had not yet recovered from
gap” impacted U.S. teens, with 25 participate in Advanced Placement
pre-Great Recession levels (AP) courses. Of them, only 18%
percent of Black students lacking are Hispanic, 13% are Black, and
prior to the pandemic.
internet access to do homework; 10% are American Indian
In many states, there is
only enough child care for
1 in 5 children
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders18 19
Higher Education Workforce & Careers
For many students and adults in the U.S., • College tuition rates have been The U.S. economy relies on a skilled workforce Programme for the International
education does not end when they leave that is prepared and ready for employment and
on the rise with the average state Assessment of Adult Competencies
K-12 schools. Many jobs and careers require meets areas of demand. A skilled workforce
a postsecondary education as a prerequisite school tuition increasing 8 percent depends on an education system to help workers (PIAAC), and results show that
for employment. Students with four- and compared to five years ago and the gain the knowledge, skills, and experience that the U.S. scored below the PIAAC
two-year college degrees acknowledge the average rate at public colleges and will make them job-ready in an ever-changing International Average in literacy,
long-term benefits of their postsecondary environment. This delicate balance, when even
average tuition rate at public universities reaching $10,486 per numeracy, and problem solving in
colleges and universities for in-state education: they earn more on average than tipped slightly, leaves employers, the workforce, reported shortages
students. College tuition rates have
those with a high school diploma, have lower
year for in-state students. and the economy out of alignment, impacting
technology-rich environments. of talent in 2019
been on the rise over the last five
years with an 8 percent increase. unemployment rates, and are more satisfied the ability of the economy and workforce to
• Student loan debt has continued • In 2017, 13 percent of 18- to
with their jobs. In a time when almost every meet its fullest potential. Rapidly increasing
job requires additional education and lifetime to increase over time. In 2021, it technological advances, now joined with the 24-year-olds surveyed had
learning, it is essential that both young and is estimated that student debt has complications wrought by COVID-19, has hours reduced or lost a job due
older adults have access to a higher education reached $1.6 trillion dollars, with impacted the labor market, causing many to lose to automation, and the public
system that helps them meet the ongoing jobs that they are unlikely to get back without
the average amount of student loan anticipates (8 in 10 adults) that
career demands in a globally competitive reskilling or upskilling.
environment. Postsecondary access has greater debt for bachelor’s degrees sitting widespread automation in jobs will
importance today because COVID-19 eliminated at $28,950, and with Black students • In 2019, 7 out of 10 companies be coming in the next few decades.
many jobs and consolidated their functions. borrowing the most. reported shortages of talent. had hours reduced or lost a job
due to automation in 2017
in student debt in 2021, with the As a result, returning employees must have • Wage growth was slow as of 2019,
average amount of student loan higher skill levels. Yet many people struggle to • In fall 2020, only 74 percent of • The Organisation for Economic and gaps in wages linger for women,
debt for bachelor’s degrees sitting
at $28,950, with Black students access, afford, or complete their postsecondary students in their first year of Co-operation and Development low- and middle-class, Black, and
borrowing the most. education, even at a time where there are more
college persisted into year two, (OECD) administered the Hispanic workers.
postsecondary institutions and options than
ever before. with Black and Hispanic students
below the overall average.
• In December 2018, there were
around 36 million Americans These chronic challenges existed in the U.S. technology application, social-emotional
persisted into year two of college
in 2019, with Black and Hispanic who began some postsecondary prior to COVID-19, but now the pandemic has development, learning recovery, or social
students below the overall average. exacerbated these ongoing issues throughout service delivery, we must engage students,
education but have not
the education continuum. families, teachers, communities, and
completed their degrees businesses in innovative policymaking.
and are no longer enrolled. Now is the time to make moves to rewrite
these damaging statistics. Regardless of This newly developing COVID
age, for each and every student to find Constituency cares deeply about the
success, schools must reopen with an eye success of the public education system.
to a future in which individual learning needs It is time to leverage this unique moment
are met, in an environment that benefits all of public resolve with major resources.
students’ development. Whether in teaching,
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders20 21
The Coronavirus Pandemic Widens
Chasms in the Education System
The pandemic’s impact is still rippling across the K-12 Student academic performance is not the only first time in fall 2019. Latinx students had the
country, but it is already clear that COVID-19 outcome impacted by this pandemic. Mental highest decline at 3.2 percentage points. For
K–12 education faces similar crises. With
intensified existing issues in the education health concerns are on the rise. From April to the first time in almost five years, persistence,
COVID-19 eliminating most in-person K–12
system, a system ill-equipped to meet student May 2020, ER visits for mental health–related an early indicator of college success, saw a
schooling, students across the country 603,000 students (3.5 percent)
and workforce needs. The education process and issues for children aged 12 to 17 years increased decline. Retention rates declined mainly in the decline in undergraduate
missed out on academic and non-academic
student outcomes worsened in most education 31 percent from the same period in 2019. community college sector, down 2.1 percentage enrollment since 2011
closed permanently
opportunities for lengthy periods of time.
systems, despite schools, staff, and communities Students in grades 10–12 who attended remote points, to 51.6 percent.
due to the pandemic. Connecticut, a state that has been closely
around the country going above and beyond to schooling experienced significantly lower
tracking attendance during the pandemic, With declines in enrollment, persistence, and
support students across the P-20 system. levels of well-being socially, emotionally,
reported that statewide, chronic absence retention, institutions and students face an The nation’s
and/or academically.
increased from 12.2 percent to over 20 percent
Early Childhood
during the current school year and was more
unexpected future as college plans hang in economic and
Postsecondary Education the balance. It is typical to see undergraduate
A year and a half into the pandemic, families prevalent among remote students, students enrollment grow during a recession, so these social success
of young children still find themselves without receiving free and reduced-price lunch, Black Postsecondary institutions and students
adequate or affordable child care. Nationally, it is and Hispanic students, English learners, also face a critical juncture as a result of the
new pandemic trends are cause for concern.
mandates
In addition, with significant losses in revenue,
estimated that 40 percent of child care programs students with disabilities, and males. Another pandemic. National Student Clearinghouse
postsecondary institutions face an uncertain meeting the
closed permanently due to their inability to report found higher absences among the (NSC) reported the steepest decline of 603,000
financial outlook.
reported at least ten percent sustain the pandemic’s impact. In addition to youngest children, with one school noting a students (3.5 percent) in undergraduate moment where
of their household income is
fewer child care options, families are now facing enrollment since it began publishing data in
spent on child care
increased costs. In 2021, 85 percent of families
60 percent increase in kindergarten to sixth
2011. All types of postsecondary institution
Our shortcomings in the U.S. education system public will and
grade absenteeism. Enrollment in public are systemic in nature and the pandemic has
surveyed reported spending at least 10 percent schools is declining at rates not seen since sectors saw undergraduate enrollment declines. illuminated these issues. It will take intentional desire align with
of their household income on child care, an The community college sector was hardest hit,
increase from 73 percent in 2020. Through
World War II. It is particularly concerning that
declining by 476,000 students (9.5 percent).
and strategic action to adapt and develop the
opportunity of
an estimated 3 million of the country’s most high-performing education systems that our
the Child Tax Credit, the federal government vulnerable students have not received virtual or Enrollment declines were true for traditional youngest to oldest students deserve, and the resources to
has provided funding to alleviate the burden. age students, older students, males, and kind of workforce the future economy needs.
However, this is a temporary, one-year measure
in-person instruction since March 2020 and are
females. Only seven states found increases in The U.S. education system has the potential
make lasting
currently unaccounted for.
that will likely not address the underlying issue of undergraduate enrollment since last spring. and, more importantly, the imperative to be change and
child care costs. Moreover, for child care to fully The disruption to learning has also resulted in Low-income college students faced particular great for all students. The nation’s economic
who last received virtual or reopen, workers need to return, yet only half of a decline in test scores. Indiana, a state that barriers—including access to housing and food— and social success mandates meeting the
transformation
in-person instruction in March
2020 have been unaccounted the 35 percent of those child care workers laid decided to test all students during the 2020-21 as campuses closed. Their declines in enrollment moment where public will and desire align with that moves far
for across the country off early in the pandemic have returned, likely school year, posted iLEARN data showing that are particularly evident in community colleges opportunity of resources to make lasting change
due to other available options that pay higher students in grades 3–8 who scored proficient but are found across all institution sectors. and transformation that moves far beyond the
beyond the
wages. A struggling early childhood system in English and math had declined almost 10
Persistence and retention rates have also
pre-COVID-19 “normal.” For these reasons, the pre-COVID-19
has clearly worsened during the pandemic. percent from 2018–19. Black students in Indiana COVID Constituency seeks a future where bold
fared worse in this year’s assessments, with only declined during the pandemic. NSC reported that
efforts will bring about great advances for our “normal.”
8 percent passing both the English and math first-year persistence rate dropped 2 percentage
children, economy, and country.
sections, highlighting the uneven impact of the points for students who entered college for the
pandemic. Kindergarten reading assessments
are concerning as well, with one report showing
that around 20 percent fewer kindergarteners
were on track to learn how to read compared
to those in the previous year. This illustrates
just a few examples of what states are starting
to see in assessment results from the 2020–21
school year.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders22 23
3. A COVID Constituency
Eager for Change
Has Formed
CONCERNS AND PRI ORITIES
OF THE NEW MOVEMENT
COVID-19 has become a powerful equalizer, as all families An in-depth analysis of national public opinion
polls and surveys since early in the pandemic
changes in the way funding is allocated, how
children are taught, and what resources are
now face the shortcomings in our education system and the reveals the current and growing perceptions,
concerns, and priorities of constituents, including
available to support students. As policymakers
and education leaders work to undo the damage
resulting academic, social, and emotional impacts on their students, parents, and educators. These recent
national polls and surveys have indicated a
that the pandemic has caused, it is imperative
that the U.S. builds the system that it truly
children. This unexpected experience is powering a public bipartisan interest in structurally transforming
America’s education system through a COVID
desires, rooted in the voices and needs of
stakeholders on the ground.
desire to address student needs and foster a more hopeful Constituency, which desires new and dramatic
future for our children and youth.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders24 25
A Desire for Education Change Learning loss concerns
Summer learning loss, also called summer Whether a result of the pandemic or from
3 IN 4 Americans care deeply about education issues,
and their shared experiences during the
in ten (69 percent) voters were more likely to
vote for a Senate candidate who prioritizes
slide, was already a concern among parents
and policymakers prior to the pandemic. This
long breaks, student learning loss will likely
continue to be a major concern for Americans
PARENT S COVID-19 shutdowns have heightened their education and has a clear education agenda. issue was magnified during the pandemic, as across political parties. According to a spring
sensitivity to the shortcomings of the education Additionally, 71 percent of Americans believed schools were not prepared to respond quickly 2021 survey conducted by the National School
believe today’s system. A poll conducted by FIL Inc. in November it is important for Congress and the president to school closures and shift to virtual teaching Boards Action Center (NSBAC), 65 percent
education system 2020 during a COVID-19 spike found that three to make education a top national priority, and for every student. Many students had to adapt of voters believed learning loss during the
is a major problem ONLY
in four parents (76 percent) believed today’s 15 percent state they would get involved with to weak internet service, limited access to pandemic is a “very big problem,” including
or in crisis
education system is a major problem or in crisis. an organization working to elevate education. technological devices, and a poor home learning 61 percent of Democrats, 64 percent of HALF
Since then, confidence in public schools has Coming out of the pandemic, the momentum environment. Whether described as learning Independents, and 71 percent of Republicans. OF ALL TEACHERS
continued to fall. According to Gallup, only one surrounding this support should be leveraged loss, lost instructional time, missed learning, or Another poll by the University of Southern reported that their curricula
in three Americans (32 percent) had “a great to advocate for tangible change in America’s need for learning recovery, the pandemic has California Dornsife Center for Economic and
are high quality and well
aligned to learning standards
deal” or “quite a lot” of confidence in the public education system. resulted in many students falling further behind Social Research reported that concerns were
71% school system in 2021, a nine-point drop from
2020. Furthermore, negative perceptions about Through an analysis of national polls and surveys
in both academic progress and social-emotional
development. As schools resume in-person
even higher for underserved students: 81
percent of adults were concerned about lower-
OF AMERICANS since the start of the pandemic, the top concerns
the current state of public schools are consistent
for K–12 education stakeholders include learning
learning, teachers will also be confronted with income children and 77 percent about children According to
across party lines: only 35 and 37 percent of greater learning differences between students of color.
Republicans and Democrats, respectively, were loss, low quality curricula, and lack of supports
in their classrooms.
a spring 2021
for underserved students. Additional concerns in
believed it is important for
Congress and the president
satisfied with the quality of public education in
the early childhood and higher education spaces survey conducted
the U.S.
to make education a top
national priority
indicate that the COVID Constituency spans the by the National
Aligning with these concerns, overall political education continuum.
Low quality content and curricula School Boards
will for bold education initiatives presents a
The following sections dive deeper into the There is no question that the quality of quality and well aligned to learning standards.
compelling case for policymakers to address
top concerns and priorities highlighted in educational content and curricula is essential These numbers further declined for teachers at
Action Center
public education issues. A survey conducted by
Education Champions found that nearly seven national polls and surveys. for effective student learning. Teaching schools with a majority of low-income students (NSBAC), 65
materials and lessons must be well-aligned (44 percent), students of color (41 percent),
to state standards, and the level of academic and English learners (33 percent). Additionally,
percent of voters
rigor must be grade appropriate. Yet, educators only 37 percent of teachers reported receiving believed learning
do not believe that America’s current school training that enables them to effectively teach
curricula are satisfactory. According to the curricula, and only 35 percent believed their
loss during
Educators for Excellence, only half of all curricula includes high-quality assessments to the pandemic
teachers reported that their curricula are high measure student learning.
is a “very big
problem.”
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders26 27
Personalized Learning Early learning and child care
Recent polls demonstrate a large increase one-size-fits-all teaching approach to a Early learning opportunities, often provided However, the limited access to and high cost
in public interest in education that meets classroom, personalized learning is based on through preschool or child care, expose children of preschool and child care services, worsened
individual children’s needs. Nearly three- the collaboration of teachers, students, and to critical social and emotional skills at an early by the pandemic, create barriers to these
quarters of voters (74 percent) believed a lack community members “to develop a unique age, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning developmental benefits, especially for working
of learning focused on individual needs is a learning plan for each student based on abilities and cognitive and social development. families. Shuttered child care facilities, low pay
problem in the U.S., and 72 percent believed interests, learning styles, and real time data.” Decades of research shows that, compared to for educators and caregivers, and high program
it is an “extremely” or “very important” issue children without preschool experience, children costs contribute to a shortage of options for
to address. COVID-19’s impact on learning has This may become even more significant as who attend preschool are more prepared for parents, even when accounting for state and
driven public awareness about recognizing the teachers return to instructing students who kindergarten. A recent study also found that federally funded programs. Amid closures, six
individual needs and assets of each student to exhibit greater disparate learning outcomes the benefits children receive from preschool in ten parents said that there was a serious
achieve maximum learning outcomes. than when schools closed. Defining personalized programs can be retained if they transition into problem finding quality, affordable child care
learning in the current COVID-19 context a high-quality elementary school. Likewise, in their community. Furthermore, 46 percent
Personalized learning emphasizes a student’s is important; equally important is extensive high-quality child care exposes children to social of Americans believed that a lack of access to
mastery of knowledge and skills rather than discussion between education leaders and the and emotional development, especially when quality child care is one of the greatest barriers
simply meeting the time requirements of public about the strategies in pedagogy, data, parents are working and unable to help their to getting people back to work during the
an academic calendar. Rather than a assessment, and resource allocation that are child develop these early life skills. pandemic. Some even call the child care crisis a
necessary to create meaningful impact. national security issue.
Supporting historically underserved students Higher education
Historically, underserved students in the U.S. homeless, yet only 30 percent of teachers The pandemic’s eradication of in-person Students have also reconsidered the value of
have not been given the necessary resources reported that their school often meets the instruction and campus traditions has driven a college after shifting to online classes. Over
to encourage academic progress. An equitable needs of homeless students and foster youth. sharp change in what the public values in higher half of college students (56 percent) were
school environment adopts engaging and This trend persists with only 31 and 33 percent education. A Gallup survey found that almost concerned that their degree is less valuable
culturally competent curricula, provides of teachers, respectively, believing that their half of all parents (46 percent) preferred not because their coursework was online.
additional academic and social support school meets the needs of LGBTQ+ and non- to send their children to a four-year college Additionally, nearly two-thirds of students (65
for students in need, and fosters trusting native English speakers. There is a marginal after high school, regardless of financial or percent) believed that higher education is not
relationships between students, parents, increase for students with physical disabilities other obstacles. Instead of four-year college, worth the cost, an eight-point increase from
and educators. Unfortunately, America’s (40 percent), students with learning disabilities 16 percent of parents were interested in non- December 2020. In a Gallup survey exploring
teachers do not believe schools properly (42 percent), students from low-income college vocational training and 22 percent the barriers to college completion, cost of
support their most vulnerable students. households (45 percent), and students of preferred that their child consider other options, attendance, emotional stress, and child care
In 2016-17, over 1.3 million students were color (52 percent). such as starting their own business or a job, responsibilities were the top reasons why
doing community service, or joining the military. respondents did not complete their degrees.
Only 8 percent of parents preferred a two-year
community college. These changing opinions are While many of these attitudes existed or were
reflected in recent declining enrollment rates. developing prior to COVID-19, this searing
experience advanced the public’s interest and
intensity for action. The public is speaking out,
and they demand an education system that
fosters an optimal learning environment and
sufficiently addresses student needs.
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders28 29
Policy Priorities of the COVID Constituency Integrating whole child support systems
It is imperative that legislators and education investing in job skills and workforce training,
Schools serve as hubs of supports for students,
especially for those who do not have optimal
Mental health
Social isolation, along with academic and
59%
leaders acknowledge and address constituent providing greater student support systems, OF VOTERS
support systems at home. Good schools personal struggles, have led to greater feelings
priorities when enacting policies. In considering addressing the digital divide, expanding
nurture academic progress, provide social of anxiety, depression, and stress among
how education systems should move forward, early learning and child care, and ensuring
and emotional supports, and deliver proper students. Meanwhile, schools grappling with
Americans have expressed strong support for postgraduate success in higher education.
nutrition to students. During school closures, virtual teaching have not been able to fully
increasing funding for public education,
students have had to navigate virtual learning support students dealing with these issues. In
environments without access to resources they fact, only three in ten teachers and parents gave believed funding for public
schools should increase
Increasing funding for public education typically receive during in-person learning. While their school high ratings for helping students
many schools across the U.S. have developed with social-emotional challenges during the
Overall, there is broad public support for in additional taxes. Voters also prefer supporting
innovative ways to provide meals to students pandemic. This has led to more parents and
increasing funding for public education. public education over alternatives: 61 percent of
learning virtually, efforts to provide other whole educators expressing a desire for greater
According to NSBAC, 59 percent of voters voters believed it is better to allocate funds to
child supports have been lacking. The public has mental health services for students. Eight in ten
66%
believed funding for public schools should improving public education, compared to only
expressed a strong desire for greater academic parents supported structured social, emotional,
increase. Of those, 86 percent supported 18 percent who supported vouchers for students
and mental and physical health supports, all and mental health support for their child, and
additional education funding even if it results to attend private or religiously affiliated schools.
necessary elements of whole child development. nearly the same number of parents (77 percent) OF PARENTS
wanted school funding to go toward investing
Academic supports
in counselors and school psychologists. As
Sixty-six percent of parents would rethink how students experience an abundance of stressors would rethink how we educate
we educate students and consider new ways to in a changing school, community, and global
students and consider new ways
to teach children
teach children. In another survey, 78 percent environment, schools must adapt to student
of adults agreed that tailored instruction is a needs to help facilitate optimal learning.
better way for students to learn. In contrast, only
one in ten adults strongly believed that whole
group instruction is a better learning method.
Investing in personalized learning would require
policy considerations such as effective data
systems and pedagogical training for educators ONLY
to improve success.
3 IN 10
PARENTS & TEACHERS
gave their school high ratings
for helping students with
social-emotional challenges
during the pandemic
77%
OF PARENTS
wanted school funding to go
toward investing in counselors
and school psychologists
© The Hunt Institute Emerging Priorities for Education Leaders30 31
Closing the digital divide and leveraging technology Investing in job skills and workforce training
MORE THAN The past year revealed wide disparities in access Excellence found that through virtual teaching, Establishing a strong connection between work. Long after the pandemic, workforce
8 IN 10
to internet and broadband, as well as access 67 percent of full-time public school teachers education and career is crucial for encouraging development will continue to be important in
to digital devices, the lack of which has been learned ways to integrate technology into their postsecondary enrollment, especially as the preparing the students for future jobs in new and
PARENTS detrimental to student learning. Four in ten lessons that they will use after the pandemic, promise of career opportunities motivates developing industries.
teachers believed that limited access to reliable and 54 percent reported that student access students to prioritize education. Students want
65% + 61%
internet and a conducive learning environment and familiarity with technology improved. more information about how education can Public opinion surveys indicated overall support
believed that expanding
were major obstacles for their students. Among Likewise, the University of Southern California’s translate to career options, a knowledge gap for investing in opportunities that pair education
computers and high-speed
DEMOCRATS REPUBLICANS
internet access for students teachers in schools with a majority of low- Understanding America Study found that that existed well before the pandemic. One and job skills training with paid work, with
should be a priority
income students, students of color, or English parents want schools to use online platforms, strategy to make the college-to-career pathway more than nine in ten Americans believing this believed that blending paid
work with education or training
learners, this number increased to nearly half such as Canvas or Google Classrooms, to more transparent is to invest in job skills and approach would be effective in helping people
opportunities is the best way to
of all teachers. store, organize, and distribute class materials workforce training, particularly at lower-cost gain qualifications for good jobs. Additionally, prepare people for future jobs
(73 percent). technical and community colleges. most Americans (62 percent), including 65
Though schools and communities worked to percent of Democrats and 61 percent of
increase the availability of internet access and Using technology can also streamline Moreover, workforce development initiatives Republicans, believed that blending paid work
electronic devices for students technological communication between students or are an effective approach to recovering the with education or training opportunities is the
access remains a top concern across political parents and educators. Over half of teachers labor market and stimulating the economy best method to prepare people for future jobs.
parties. NSBAC found that 89 percent of (52 percent) reported that virtual meetings have after a tumultuous period of layoffs and Parents also supported investments in job skills
Democrats, 73 percent of Republicans, and 70 made meetings with parents and administrators business closures. The public agrees: One- training, with 82 percent favoring work-based
percent of Independents viewed easier access easier. Similarly, a large majority of parents also third of Americans (33 percent) believed a learning programs or apprenticeships and 80
to technology and broadband as important. preferred to attend parent-teacher conferences lack of education or job skills training is one percent wanting more vocational classes.
Unsurprisingly, given the barriers that parents remotely (80 percent) and wanted students to of the greatest barriers to getting back to
and educators have faced, more than eight communicate with their teachers through digital
in ten parents believed that schools should methods, such as email (75 percent).
prioritize expanding computer availability and
high-speed internet access when using federal Additionally, parents desired flexibility with
funding while more than eight in ten teachers school structures and how their children are
(81 percent) believed that providing all students taught. More than seven in ten parents (73
with free universal high-speed internet access is percent) were interested in pivoting to remote
a critically important federal investment. schooling if there is poor weather or other
another reason that warrants school closures.
Despite these challenges, educators and parents Half of parents (50 percent) supported allowing
have also learned over the past year and a half students to work on their own time, without a
about new opportunities to leverage technology teacher present. A majority also wanted students
to improve communication and classroom to be able to submit assignments (63 percent)
teaching. A survey conducted by Educators for and read (59 percent) online.
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