According to a new budget summary, the Trump administration wants to cut the Education Department's funding by 15%, while largely preserving the two most important federal funding streams to K12 schools.

Schools—from K12 districts to four-year colleges and universities—are upgrading their credentials to swiftly upskill the emerging and mid-career workforce.

Facing rising college costs, more Gen Z students like Penelope Masotti are choosing skilled trades for financial stability. Masotti plans to study cosmetology after graduation, joining a growing shift away from traditional four-year degrees.