Welcome to Playground Post, a bi-weekly newsletter that keeps education innovators ahead of what’s next.

Here’s what we have on deck for today…

1. Art programs boost graduation rates

2. Funding gap creates opportunities for after-school programs

3. Math teacher shortage

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Art programs boost graduation rates

A new study found that students with four years of arts education graduate at a 90% rate compared to 73% for those without.

However, federal funding cuts are threatening these programs, especially in low-income schools where access is already limited.

Tech-enabled arts programs that work within tight budgets could help resource-constrained schools maintain these vital programs while delivering the academic benefits that keep students engaged and on track to graduate.

Funding gap creates opportunities for after-school programs

Afterschool programs face a critical funding crisis despite overwhelming demand.

New data from the Afterschool Alliance shows that 80% of programs worry about their financial future.

• 53% report waitlists

• 25% expect staff cuts

• 28% expect fee increases

Programs are especially concerned about student mental health needs and excessive screen time, particularly in low-income communities.

This gap creates an opening for organizations to develop affordable afterschool models that prioritize mental wellness and meaningful engagement.

Math teacher shortage

Nearly half of school leaders report finding qualified math teachers is "very challenging," according to a new Gallup poll:

• Only 1 in 8 teacher preparation programs devote enough time to math fundamentals.

• The shortage is worse in high schools, where 64% of principals struggle to fill positions, and in rural communities where staff often juggle multiple roles.

For education innovators, this creates clear opportunities to develop better math teacher training programs and accessible tutoring solutions.

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