New National Educator Survey Highlights AI and CTE as Essential for Preparing Students’ Futures
A recent survey from Savvas Learning Company reveals that educators are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and career and technical education (CTE) to equip students with skills needed for success after high school. This annual national survey of K-12 teachers and administrators sheds light on the challenges and solutions shaping education in the 2025-26 school year and beyond.
Educators Embrace AI, But Demand Responsible Use
AI is gaining traction in classrooms, with 66% of educators planning to increase its use this school year, up from 57% last year. More than half of high school educators see understanding AI as crucial for students’ future success. However, only 5% feel confident that students know how to use AI responsibly and critically.
Professional development on AI remains scarce, with 70% of educators reporting no training on guiding students to use AI effectively in their learning. Concerns also exist about AI’s impact on essential skills: 43% believe current AI use harms students’ communication and critical thinking abilities, rising to 68% among high school teachers.
These findings signal a clear need for AI tools that support skill development rather than shortcuts, along with proper training and safeguards to ensure responsible use.
Career and Technical Education Leads in Workforce Preparation
CTE programs stand out as the top choice for preparing students for life after high school, favored by 63% of educators compared to just 26% favoring Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Educators identify job-ready skills, technical training, and early exposure to career pathways as key benefits of CTE.
Among those who support CTE, 77% of teachers and 79% of administrators agree that these programs improve students’ employability, confirming CTE’s role in bridging education and workforce readiness.
Dual Enrollment Provides a Critical Bridge
Dual enrollment programs also play a vital role in preparing students for college and careers. Among high school educators in schools offering these courses, 88% cite the opportunity to earn college credit as a major advantage. Additionally, 75% highlight reduced tuition costs, and 70% point to smoother transitions to postsecondary education.
This early exposure to college-level work supports affordability and accessibility, helping students explore future academic and career options sooner.
Student Motivation Remains a Major Challenge
Lack of motivation is a top concern for 75% of educators, with half naming it the biggest challenge students face. High school teachers link motivation issues to barriers in earning a living wage (64%) and college success (45%).
Educators emphasize that learning experiences connected to students’ lives and futures are essential. AI-powered tools and CTE offerings are seen as promising ways to boost student engagement and success beyond K-12.
About the Survey
The 2025 Savvas Educator Index surveyed 1,775 K-12 public school educators, including district and school administrators and teachers, from May 14 to June 9, 2025. It provides a snapshot of educator perspectives on technology, workforce readiness, instructional trends, and classroom challenges for the upcoming year.
About Savvas Learning Company
Savvas Learning Company creates K-12 learning solutions aimed at engaging students and supporting educators. Their offerings include standards-aligned curricula, supplemental programs, assessments, and career readiness tools used by millions of educators and students across the U.S. and internationally.
For educators interested in exploring AI training and resources to support classroom innovation, Complete AI Training offers a range of courses and materials to build practical skills in AI application.
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