Walton Family Foundation’s Post

Setting future generations up for success means including their voices in our solutions. To share perspectives of today’s youth and inspire innovative solutions to help the next generations achieve their full potential, the Walton Family Foundation created Next Gen Insights. Through research-backed insights and data, the resource library provides a glimpse into the priorities, behaviors and sentiments of the next generation. It also houses one of the largest and most comprehensive national research panels tracking the attitudes of Gen Z and future generations over time. By listening to their needs, we can advance the right solutions to help today's — and tomorrow’s — youth thrive. To find research, videos, blog posts, and more, visit Next Gen Insights: https://ow.ly/ZgEi50SrI5G #GenZ #NextGeneration #Research #Learning #Education

In recent years, numerous studies have shown that investments in early childhood programs not only yield significant economic returns but also create lasting social benefits. High-quality early education programs, particularly those targeting children from low-income or at-risk families, offer a crucial foundation that enhances cognitive, social, and emotional development. These benefits don't just serve the children directly involved; they extend to families, communities, and future generations. Understanding the profound impact of these programs helps make a compelling case for why we must prioritize early childhood education as a national and global investment strategy.

New to following me on LinkedIn? My focus is on equity, authenticity, relationships, diversity, and student-centered education. Have any suggestions on what to share? Let me know! #equityforall #authenticitymatters #relationshipsmatter #celebratediversity #studentcentered ✒️

What legacy do we aspire to pass on to our children❓️ 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧. Some find prosperity, but many lack the financial literacy to sustain it. Others struggle to grasp the essence of hard work, often squandering earnings on fleeting pleasures. Our youth, bombarded by the notion that materialism is paramount, deserve better. 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧'𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫. As we celebrate youth day, let's introspect on our role as parents and elders. Are we truly setting a positive example for our kids❓️ Do we actively impart and share values that guide them towards making sound choices❓️Are we instilling in them the essential principles of life❓️ Do they feel surrounded by our love ❤️ and compassion❓️ Are we fostering a sense of responsibility by allowing them to earn certain privileges rather than handing everything to them on a platter❓️ And most importantly, do they find us there for them when they need our support the most❓️ Teachers,👨🏫👩🏫 pivotal in shaping young minds, often go unnoticed. Their influence extends beyond the curriculum, impacting lives and steering destinies. I fondly remember my science teachers who sparked my passion for the health field.🤩 I've also witnessed instances where a teacher's presence helped a struggling student overcome familial challenges, instilling hope for a successful future.😊 Regrettably, the tireless efforts of these educators often go unrecognized. It's time to acknowledge their crucial role by elevating teaching to one of the highly esteemed and well-compensated professions globally, recognizing that without them, the journey to graduation👨🎓👩🎓 for our children would be incomplete. This day, and every day, should prompt reflection🧠 on nurturing character, compassion, and leadership in our youth. It's a collective effort🤝, requiring a reevaluation of values and thought patterns at various levels. Only then can we cultivate a generation ready to lead our nation down the right path.🤗 🅷🅰🅿🅿🆈 🆈🅾🆄🆃🅷 🅳🅰🆈!

In the realm of education and professional development, acknowledging the common feeling of being an outsider is vital, particularly for first-generation professionals. Our unique experiences, from overcoming language barriers at an early age to navigating complex academic and professional spaces independently, shape us into resilient and adaptable individuals. It's essential to recognize that imposter syndrome, often exacerbated by dismissive or prejudiced remarks, does not define our worth or limit our potential. To all women facing the challenges of imposter syndrome, whether due to being first-gen, having an accent, or any other diverse background, remember: your journey and experiences are valid and valuable. Do not let self-doubt or the negative opinions of others dim your aspirations or achievements. Your strength and perseverance are your greatest assets. Let us also commit to uplifting one another. In a world where women's voices are often marginalized, offering support and encouragement to peers facing similar struggles can create a powerful sense of community and empowerment. By standing together, we not only affirm our own worth but also pave the way for future generations to thrive in all their diversity.

Attention Millennial parents: Are you frustrated with outdated education systems? Discover the revolutionary strategies to sculpt your child's future in my latest blog post. Dive into the dynamic world of redefining education and unleash your child's full potential today! #EducationRevolution #MillennialParents #FutureLeaders #InnovativeEducation https://lnkd.in/g8R2tHHn

Empowering voices during Women's History Month! Dive into the insightful article written by our very own Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life, Dr. Soufleris,  where she discusses her journey as a first-generation student and sheds light on challenges such as academic hurdles, family pressure, imposter syndrome, and more. "If someone had said to me, 'It is OK to feel like you don’t belong here — you do! And you are not alone!' (a feeling we now call 'imposter syndrome'), my hours of angst wondering what in the world I was doing in college might have been fewer. I am forever grateful to my mentor for making such a difference at a time when I was lost." Leaning into campus support services can help combat imposter syndrome and allow you to better understand your interests, skills, and strengths, and articulate what you can bring to the table both academically and professionally. These invaluable resources provide personalized support and help showcase your skills and strengths. https://lnkd.in/eAp_6vyB #WomensHistoryMonth #CareerDevelopment #ImposterSyndrome #Empowerment"

#WeekendReading | „Universities are among the most age-segregated of institutions. This reality represents a lost opportunity: Older and younger adults, both grappling with increasingly ambiguous and uncertain futures, must find their own way without the benefit of each others’ experiences and perspectives.“ 4 lessons on how to move to more age-integrated institutions: https://lnkd.in/g_vCV9z

"We’ve pushed high school students into maximizing every part of their days and nights... We need to let them slow down. Critical cognition, by definition, takes time." – CT educator Tim Donahue in The New York Times This op-ed really hit home for me. So many teens are being pushed hard to excel in every corner of their lives, but at what cost? "Achievement Pressure" and "Game Plan Pressure" are two of the SEVEN pressures our challenge collaborators Center for Digital Thriving have identified many teens are struggling with, big time. This relentless pressure needs to end—now. We’re conditioning them to rush from task to task, sacrificing deep thinking, mental health, and real connection. We’re calling for a reset, to break the cycle and give young people the space to think critically, live fully, and thrive. We know that tech can serve as both an amplifier of pressures, and a release valve. Teens and families need help finding those release valves..both on and offline. It's a lot to think about...how can we get started? By elevating solutions. Our UNDER PRESSURE CHALLENGE commits $1 MILLION to support up to 10 early-stage non-profits working to alleviate the pressures teens and preteens face in navigating our tech-driven world. Help us spread the word!📢 Join the movement, learn more and apply at https://lnkd.in/g98yysMX 🚀 #UnderPressureChallenge #FundingChallenge Young Futures Org Dr. Kristine G. Sierra Malia F. Emily Weinstein Carrie James Eduardo Lara Beck Tench Kevin Connors Kelsey Noonan Celine Coggins Ph.D. Susan Crown Exchange Pivotal Ventures The Goodness Web (TGW) Tiffany Zhu

"Education is the foundation for a brighter future." We couldn't agree more! As we navigate an ever-changing world, investing in our children's education is crucial for their success, fulfillment, and contribution to a thriving society. But where do we begin? Here are some actionable steps you can take today: 1. Engage in conversations with your child about their interests, aspirations, and learning style. 2. Explore educational resources tailored to their needs and curiosity. 3. Connect with educators and mentors who can guide and support their journey. 4. Seek financial aid and scholarship opportunities if needed. Remember, every step counts! By prioritizing education, we empower the next generation to build a brighter future for themselves and all of us. #InvestInEducation #FutureLeaders #EducationMatters #LifelongLearning