A new study conducted by Hanover Research examines the value K–12 districts are seeing from adopting a unified, systemic approach to college and career readiness (CCR).

Commissioned by Xello, The Return on Impact (ROI) of College and Career Readiness Infrastructure study explores reported and observed outcomes among US-based district leaders and educators using Xello as part of their CCR programming. The study defines ROI as Return on Impact: A framework looking beyond traditional financial return and instead covering educational, operational, organizational, and family outcomes.

The research draws on a national survey of over 350 K–12 district leaders and educators who use Xello, in-depth interviews, and Xello platform engagement data from the 2025–26 school year.

Among the key impact findings from Xello users:

  • 78% of educators and district leaders reported positive impacts on student career plan completion, while 76% reported greater clarity in students’ postsecondary goals.

  • Educators estimated an average 33% reduction in administrative workload associated with workflows supported through Xello, while district leaders estimated 28%.

  • Platform engagement data showed more than $13 million in scholarship award value reported through Xello during the 2025–26 school year.

  • 74% of educators and district leaders reported stronger accountability for CCR across grade levels.

Across the findings, a central theme emerges: Districts report the greatest Return on Impact when college and career readiness functions as institutional infrastructure rather than a collection of disconnected programs.

“College and career readiness can’t be a series of disconnected moments in a student’s journey,” said Matt McQuillen, Co-Founder and CEO of Xello. “What this research shows is the value of building the infrastructure that connects students, educators, families, and district leaders around a unified approach to readiness. When those pieces work together, districts are better positioned to deliver meaningful support consistently and at scale.”

Read the full report.

About Hanover Research: A global research and analytics firm that delivers market intelligence through a unique, fixed-fee model to provide a service that is revolutionary in its combination of flexibility and affordability.

About Xello: Our mission is simple yet powerful: To equip every student with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build a successful, meaningful future.

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