Year-End Special Part 1: Reviewing 2025 + 2026 AI & EdTech Predictions from Reach Capital, HMH, Brisk & More!

6 snips

Dec 24, 2025

Guest

Andrew Goldman

Tom Vander Ark, founder of Getting Smart, dives into automation's effects on education goals, advocating for AI literacy. Bjorn Bilhardt, CEO of Abilitie, forecasts radical changes in higher education driven by AI. Jacob Cantor, from JK K12EDU, shares insights on K-12 engagement and the potential of conversational AI. Jennifer Carolan from Reach Capital highlights a shift towards micro-schools and applied assessments. Andrew Goldman from HMH Labs points to the rapid rise in teacher adoption of AI, focusing on outcomes and interdisciplinary collaboration.

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ADVICE

Prioritize Relationships During Turbulence

In turbulent funding times, cultivate deep district relationships and plant seeds early for long‑term adoption.
Be a reliable partner when budgets tighten rather than just a vendor seeking quick sales.

INSIGHT

Teachers Shift From Aid To Student‑Facing Tools

Arman Jaffer saw teachers move from productivity use of AI to enabling student-facing coaching in 2025.
He highlights pockets of brilliance where teachers design AI-driven student supports like writing coaches.

ADVICE

Sell Outcomes, Not AI Features

Move districts from ad hoc AI pilots to systemic implementations tied to measurable problems and outcomes.
Stop selling "AI" and sell literacy, math, or specific academic outcomes with AI as the enabling tool.

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2025 was a defining year for AI in education. From rapid adoption to rising educator confidence and growing questions about what comes next.

In Part 1 of our year-end reflections and predictions, Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell revisit their 2025 reflections and look ahead to what 2026 may bring for EdTech, AI, and the future of learning.

🎙️ Featuring insights from:

Tom Vander Ark, Founder & CEO, Getting Smart
Bjorn Billhardt, CEO, Abilitie
Jacob Kantor, Founder & Chief DODO, JK K12 EDU
Arman Jaffer, Founder & CEO, Brisk Teaching
Ian McCullough, Founder & Principal, McCullough Marketing and Management
Jennifer Carolan, General Partner, Reach Capital
Andrew Goldman, EVP, HMH Labs

From educator adoption curves to Big Tech’s growing influence, this episode brings together operators, investors, and strategists to unpack what’s shaping education’s next chapter.

😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!

🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:

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