This article is one of a series of articles produced by Word in Black through support provided by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. Word In Black is a collaborative of 10 Black-owned media outlets across the country.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden recently hosted the “Classroom to Career” Summit at the White House, bringing together approximately 200 education and workforce leaders. The event highlighted the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to expand career pathways and workforce development programs in many ways that could benefit Black K-12 students.
The Department of Education Analysis Report
The DOE will publish new analysis of ED data on postsecondary programs that provide pathways to jobs created or fueled by the Investing in America agenda. The study follows a years-long effort to better connect high schools and postsecondary programs to careers through the Unlocking Career Success Initiative, which invested $31 million in building model career-connected programs in high schools.
The Department of Education initiative will benefit Black K-12 students by expanding access to career-connected learning opportunities and more pathways to high-wage, high-demand jobs.
Career and Technical Education Apprenticeships
The White House announced a major expansion of CTE programs and Registered Apprenticeships in 46 states, providing more career-connected learning opportunities in high-demand fields like infrastructure and clean energy. For Black students, many of whom attend schools in underfunded districts, these initiatives could bridge the gap to career readiness without the need for a costly college degree.
Skills-Based Hiring Initiatives
The Biden administration is pushing for skills-based hiring across federal jobs, removing degree requirements and instead focusing on capabilities. This shift could give Black students easier access to federal jobs that traditionally require degrees, leveling the playing field in the job market.
YouthBuild Solar Panel Training Program
Expanding YouthBuild’s solar panel program to 16 new locations in 2025 will provide Black students ages 16-24 with skills for clean energy jobs. This program’s growth aligns with increased demand in green industries, making it a pathway to high-paying, environmentally conscious careers.
Emergency Aid for Single-Parent Household Students
Scholarship America’s new emergency aid program, launching in 2025, will assist single mothers pursuing higher education. This is particularly beneficial for Black students in single-parent households, helping ensure their caregivers can continue education and training without financial setbacks.
Workforce Hubs and Local Partnerships
Nine White House Workforce Hubs—including cities with significant Black populations like Baltimore and Philadelphia—are creating partnerships between K-12 schools, community colleges, and local businesses. These collaborations provide hands-on training and apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing and transportation sectors, helping Black students transition directly from school to meaningful careers.
