Upcoming redesign of K-12 industry-recognized credentials will support student workforce preparation

2/18/2026

New framework under development for industry-recognized credential evaluation

Ohio Excels and the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, in partnership with Watershed Advisors and Accenture, are co-leading a three-year initiative to re-evaluate the weights given to industry-recognized credentials in K-12 education.

A redefined list of industry-recognized credentials and a new framework for evaluating credentials will help ensure students have access to credentials that are truly high-value, leading to meaningful post-high school opportunities aligned with Ohio’s current and future workforce needs.

Over the coming months, Accenture will analyze Ohio’s existing credential list and labor market and workforce data, and will work with stakeholders to develop a clear, transparent framework to evaluate credential quality and relevance. Planning for implementation support is also underway to ensure ongoing, tailored, and direct technical assistance to district partners once the redesigned list launches.

Learn more about the timeline and the work on the Department’s industry-recognized credentials webpage.

Direct questions about the industry-recognized credential review process or feedback to industrycredentials@education.ohio.gov.