SchooLinks Secures $80 Million to Bridge College and Career Readiness Gap

October 23, 2024, 9:33 am
Strada Education Network
Strada Education Network
B2CBuildingCollegeEdTechInvestmentLearnNonprofitResearchSocialTraining
Location: United States, Iowa
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 2017
SchooLinks
SchooLinks
CollegeDataEdTechITLearnPlanningPlatformProductTalentTools
Location: United States, Texas, Austin
Employees: 51-200
Founded date: 2014
Total raised: $88.3M
Stephens
Stephens
BuildingFamilyFinTechFirmInsurTechLocalManagementPublicReputationService
Location: United States, Arkansas, Little Rock
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 1933
In a world where the future feels uncertain, SchooLinks emerges as a beacon of hope. The Austin-based company has just raised $80 million in Series B funding, a significant boost aimed at transforming college and career readiness (CCR) for K-12 students across the United States. This funding round, led by Susquehanna Growth Equity, with participation from Stephens Group, Strada, and ASA, signals a strong vote of confidence in SchooLinks’ mission.

Founded in 2015 by Katie Fang, SchooLinks has quickly become a vital resource for students navigating the complex landscape of post-secondary education and career options. The platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to guide students from the classroom to the workforce. It’s not just about getting into college; it’s about preparing for life beyond graduation.

The need for such resources has never been more pressing. Recent statistics reveal a troubling trend: a significant drop in college and career readiness among high school graduates. Many students lack the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their first year of college. SchooLinks aims to address this gap head-on.

With the new funding, SchooLinks plans to expand its offerings. The company is set to enhance its platform, which already includes engaging assessments, gamified lessons, and individualized roadmaps tailored to each student’s unique interests and goals. This is not just a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s a personalized journey designed to empower students.

SchooLinks operates in 40 states, serving a growing number of public school districts. The platform is designed to streamline the often cumbersome processes involved in career and academic planning. By simplifying back-office logistics, SchooLinks allows counselors and teachers to focus on what truly matters: meaningful interactions with students.

The platform’s design is intuitive, making it accessible for administrators, counselors, families, and students alike. It fosters collaboration between K-12 education, higher education, and employers, creating a seamless connection that benefits everyone involved. This holistic approach is what sets SchooLinks apart from its competitors.

SchooLinks is not just about technology; it’s about transformation. The company has witnessed exponential growth since its Series A funding, serving 15 times the number of districts and 10 times the number of students. This rapid expansion reflects a growing recognition of the importance of CCR resources in today’s educational landscape.

As the workforce evolves, so too must the tools that prepare students for it. SchooLinks is committed to advancing workforce development through innovative solutions. The platform is not merely a tool for academic planning; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem that prepares students for the realities of the job market.

The investment from Susquehanna Growth Equity and other partners is a testament to SchooLinks’ potential. These investors bring a wealth of experience in SaaS and the education sector, positioning SchooLinks for further growth and innovation. The company is poised to redefine what it means to be college and career ready in the 21st century.

SchooLinks’ vision is clear: democratize access to essential resources for all students. This mission resonates deeply in a time when educational inequities are more pronounced than ever. By providing tools that cater to diverse needs, SchooLinks is leveling the playing field.

The platform’s gamified lessons and interactive content engage students in ways traditional methods often fail to do. Financial literacy, scholarship applications, and career exploration are no longer daunting tasks; they are opportunities for growth and discovery. SchooLinks transforms the daunting journey of post-graduation planning into an exciting adventure.

As the company looks to the future, it aims to deepen its impact. The funding will allow SchooLinks to enhance its workforce solutions, bridging the gap between education and employment. This alignment is crucial in a rapidly changing job market where skills and adaptability are paramount.

SchooLinks is not just another ed-tech company; it’s a movement. It’s about reshaping the narrative around college and career readiness. It’s about ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the tools and support needed to succeed.

In a landscape where many students feel lost, SchooLinks provides a compass. The platform guides them through the complexities of post-secondary planning, helping them chart a course toward a brighter future. With this latest funding, SchooLinks is set to expand its reach and deepen its impact, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

As the education sector continues to grapple with challenges, SchooLinks stands ready to lead the charge. With its innovative platform and commitment to student success, the company is not just preparing students for college; it’s preparing them for life. The future is bright, and SchooLinks is lighting the way.