By SDCN Staff
Washington, D.C.–Millions of high school students want more than a diploma — they want the skills and credentials to succeed in the workforce.
A new report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce finds most graduates aren’t leaving high school prepared for today’s job market, prompting a national push to reimagine career readiness in classrooms.
Unveiled this week at the From Classrooms to Careers event, the Chamber of Commerce and the College Board announced a new partnership to introduce Advanced Placement (AP) Career Kickstart courses, beginning with AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity. Both courses, scheduled to launch nationwide in fall 2026, are designed to teach industry-relevant skills while offering college credit and employer-endorsed credentials.
The move follows the release of The New Hire Readiness Report 2025, which surveyed 500 hiring managers across the country. Among its findings:
- 84% say most high school graduates are not workforce-ready.
- 80% believe graduates are less prepared than previous generations.
- Only 38% report it is easy to find candidates with the right skills.
- Graduates with industry-recognized credentials are seen as far more prepared (71% vs. 40%).
Hiring managers also ranked financial literacy, problem-solving, and critical thinking as top priorities for young professionals. Nearly all respondents (92%) said more business courses should be offered in high schools.
“The new AP Business with Personal Finance course is a powerful way to foster the next generation of business leaders,” said Suzanne Clark, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. “We’re not only giving students a fundamental education in market principles and economics, we’re helping them understand the power of free enterprise to improve lives.”
College Board officials said the initiative builds on its mission to connect students with opportunity.
“Students want to do work that matters. Employers want to hire talent that’s ready,” said David Coleman, CEO of College Board. “AP Career Kickstart brings those worlds together.”
The AP Program is piloting the courses in classrooms across the country to refine content and support teachers. Early student feedback has been encouraging. “At first, I was so self-conscious, constantly worrying—‘What if I mess this up?’ ” said Lily, a student testing the AP Business with Personal Finance course. “But now I feel confident, outgoing, and passionate. It’s shown me just how much I’m capable of.”
Industry leaders, including CompTIA, Oracle, IBM, U.S. Bank, and Sephora are advising on course design. Nearly 500 employers and 75 local chambers across 40 states have endorsed the initiative, signaling broad demand for the skills the courses aim to provide.
Students who complete the new AP Career Kickstart classes will have a pathway to earn college credit, technical certifications, or credentials that open doors to higher education, apprenticeships, the military, or direct workforce entry.
For some students, the most practical lessons stand out. “Everyone needs to understand finance,” said Joziah, a Massachusetts high schooler. “Whether it’s buying a home, getting a car, or handling everyday expenses, this course prepares you for real life.”
