A new educational program in a community college aims to prepare students for careers in technology while also providing support services such as childcare and counseling. What latent function of education does this program exemplify?

This program shows how education can secretly act as a social support system, helping students meet hidden needs that aren’t part of the curriculum. By offering childcare and counseling, the college meets everyday life challenges, so students can focus on learning. This hidden benefit keeps people in the educational environment, builds community bonds, and reduces dropout risk. For example, a student with a young child can attend classes while the college provides a safe play area, letting the student finish the course and pursue a tech career. Thus, the program demonstrates education’s latent function of providing essential social services.