BLOG

At Zer0 to 5ive, one of the most effective pitch and thought leadership strategies we revisit each year is predictions. Reporters are always looking for sharp, forward-looking insights that help frame what’s next, and predictions give clients a powerful way to showcase their expertise. Predictions open the door to trend stories and commentary opportunities, and provide a timely and authoritative hook for both trade and national outlets.

In this post, we’re sharing a curated set of predictions from our education clients – highlighting the themes, challenges, and opportunities they expect will shape the industry in 2026.

Investing in Education R&D Will Be Vital to Solving Pressing Education Issues

“In 2026, we will see more talk about the need for research and evidence to guide education decisions in K-12 education. Reports on student achievement continue to show that K-12 students are not where they need to be academically, while concerns about the impact of new technologies on student well-being are on the rise. Many in the education space are now asking what we can do differently to support student learning as AI solutions rapidly make their way into classrooms. Investing in research and development with a focus on understanding teaching and learning in the age of AI will be vital to addressing current education issues.”
— Auditi Chakravarty, CEO, AERDF

The Future of Education Isn’t Artificial, It’s Deeply Human

“In 2026, AI will move from experiment to essential partner in guiding students toward meaningful, fulfilling lives. It will do more than personalize learning. It will provide insights that help students understand their aptitudes and connect them to education and career pathways that align with their strengths. By handling administrative tasks and analyzing learning patterns, AI will free educators to mentor, guide, and create experiences that connect classroom knowledge to real-world opportunities. This connection between students’ natural talents, their learning, and career pathways will form the foundation for individual success, stronger communities, and a more resilient economy that benefits from a more adaptable, skilled workforce. In 2026, the most successful classrooms will use AI to build bridges between learning and opportunity, students and their potential, and education and the workforce.”
– Edson Barton, CEO & Co-Founder, YouScience

Cell Phone Bans and the New Attention Economy

“In 2026, the national debate over cell phones in schools will shift from discipline to attention. With at least 32 states now moving to restrict or ban student cell phone use, educators, parents, and researchers are recognizing that this isn’t just a classroom issue – it’s a cultural one. Early evidence suggests that limiting phones improves grades and focus, but real progress will depend on how schools and families model healthy digital habits. Expect the conversation to evolve beyond student behavior toward a broader reckoning with adult modeling and the fractured attention economy. As lawmakers, educators, and parents wrestle with the role of devices in learning and daily life, new research will focus on how tech boundaries – at home and at school – can restore focus, foster connection, and rebuild the deep attention students need to learn. The question isn’t just whether students can put down their phones – it’s whether the rest of us can, too.”
– Dr. Ayesha Hashim, Senior Research Scientist, NWEA

A Persistent Absence, and a Changing Definition of School

“Chronic absenteeism hasn’t eased as districts hoped—it’s proving sticky. At the same time, families are exploring and normalizing hybrid and home learning models. These two patterns may share roots in flexibility, agency, and the search for alignment between how students learn and how schools operate. Taken together, they suggest ​​significant changes in how families relate to school. In response, we’ll likely see districts and states focus on earlier, more flexible outreach and clearer visibility into alternative learning pathways—not sweeping reform, but steady adjustments aimed at keeping students connected, however and wherever learning happens.”
– Dr. Joy Smithson, Data Science Manager, SchoolStatus

Addressing School Safety Concerns Will Be Crucial for Improving Student Attendance

“Research shows that there is a strong link between school safety and student attendance. Nationally, districts are facing high levels of chronic absenteeism, and educators are working to find ways to get students back into the classroom. In 2026, the districts that prioritize creating a culture of safety and proactively communicating with their communities about their safety initiatives will see attendance gains. When parents see districts regularly communicating about safety, they feel more confident sending their children to school. And, when students feel safe at school, they are more likely to attend.”
– Dr. Roderick Sams, Chief Development Officer, CENTEGIX

AI Aiding in Career Planning

“In 2026, we’ll see artificial intelligence continue to shape how students evaluate their career paths. As automation transforms many entry-level white-collar roles, more students will gravitate toward hands-on, AI-resilient careers where human skill and expertise remain essential. We’ll also see continued growth in student, parent, and school counselor interest in the skilled trades. Gen Z will stay focused on the return on investment of their education, seeking faster, more affordable pathways that lead directly to stable, in-demand jobs. Counselors, who play a key role in shaping postsecondary decisions, will increasingly highlight technical training options as strong, high-value alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. Once skeptical parents will follow suit, recognizing the strength of employer partnerships and the career potential these programs provide.”
– Tracy Lorenz, Division President, UTI

Wellness Goes Whole-School

“Educator wellness programs will increasingly integrate with student well-being initiatives, creating a truly holistic school climate. Schools may roll out building-wide morning meditations, joint movement challenges, or shared mindfulness activities that engage both staff and students. By connecting teacher and student wellness, districts will foster healthier, more resilient communities while boosting engagement and morale across the school.”
– Niki Campbell, M.S., founder/CEO of The Flourish Group

 

What do you think will define 2026 in education? If you have a POV you would like to amplify, we’d love to hear from you.