Governors highlight education in 2025 State of the State addresses

Governors nationwide have delivered their 2025 State of the State addresses, focusing significantly on education. This topic, a major part of state budgets, was emphasized in various ways, from celebrating achievements to setting forth future plans.

In particular, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Chair of the National Governors Association (NGA), introduced the "Let’s Get Ready!: Educating All Americans for Success Chair’s Initiative." This initiative aims to reform education systems to align with the job market needs, preparing students for future success. Governor Polis stated, "This year, I have the honor of serving as Chair of the bipartisan National Governors Association. My Chair’s Initiative, Let’s Get Ready: Educating All Americans for Success, is all about preparing students for real life and our economy for real success. We’re looking at how we can best ensure learners develop the skills and talents they need to succeed in today and tomorrow’s job market."

Reports from the National Governors Association and the Education Commission of the States have identified seven major educational policy trends across the governors' addresses: K–12 funding, workforce development and career and technical education, teacher workforce, academic achievement, school choice, early care and education, and mental and physical health. Additionally, the use of cell phones in schools emerged as a new point of interest.

On K–12 funding, at least 32 governors addressed this issue. They included Governor Leon Guerrero of Guam and Governor Mills of Maine, who spoke on investments and budget allocations for school facilities and education costs. Governor Phil Scott of Vermont remarked, "As you know, we are proposing a new approach to education funding…Getting this formula right will benefit taxpayers and bring a high-quality education with more opportunities for all students from cradle to career."

Workforce development and career education were mentioned by at least 33 governors, focusing on preparing students for new job markets. Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania highlighted the importance of multiple paths to success: "Some Pennsylvanians join the workforce right out of high school. Some complete an apprenticeship. Some join the military. Some go to college. There are many paths to success, and we’ve got to respect and support all of them."

The need for a stronger teacher workforce was emphasized by 26 governors, with initiatives to improve recruitment and retention. Florida Governor DeSantis, for instance, announced significant funding aimed at increasing teacher salaries.

On academic achievement, 24 governors reported on various measures, including literacy and numeracy programs. Governor Tina Kotek of Oregon attributed progress in academic fundamentals to legislative support: "For the fundamentals, I thank the Legislature for being a partner with me in early literacy and summer learning investments."

Addressing school choice, 21 governors discussed the importance of options in education. They argued for diverse schooling opportunities while maintaining accountability. Early education, mental and physical health, and cell phone usage in schools were other key topics in this year's addresses. For instance, Governor Kemp of Georgia emphasized mental health funding, linked to recent traumatic events.

As governors continue to focus on education, their speeches provide insight into current priorities and the future direction of educational policies across the states.