Local education leaders discuss Workforce Readiness at chamber luncheon

Panelists highlighted the growing importance of soft skills—such as teamwork, adaptability, communication, and resilience—and how schools are embedding these into curriculum and culture.

“The question isn’t just whether students meet academic benchmarks,” said Almos. “It’s whether they can think critically, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully. That’s what today’s employers—and communities—need.”

Spectrum’s DeBruyn emphasized the power of early preparation. “We’re helping students map out their futures with intention,” he said. “Whether that’s earning college credit, participating in internships, or just learning what they don’t want to do, every experience is part of preparing them for what comes next.”

Panelists also addressed the real challenges of funding and policy changes. All three expressed concern over the growing number of state mandates placed on schools—many of which are unfunded or underfunded. Transportation, staffing costs, and new compliance requirements are straining already tight budgets.

“The legislature continues to create new programs with good intentions, but often without the funding to support them long-term,” said Sellner. “Schools are left scrambling to implement policies without the resources to do it well.”

Almos added that although schools received a record dollar increase in the last legislative session, much of that funding came in “buckets”—restricted to specific uses, with little flexibility for districts to address local needs. DeBruyn agreed, noting, “It’s not just about how much money schools receive—it’s about being trusted to use it wisely.”