The number one thing we hear from entrepreneurs and artists and creatives when we ask them about their education is about how irrelevant it was to their story. Sure, some folks had wonderful educational experiences, but for many their experiences left them feeling ill prepared for life and their careers. So, we wanted to create a space for folks to share their experiences and ideas for how we can improve our educational system.

Micaela Barrero

I believe that we need a mindset shift in education to prioritize practical skills and knowledge alongside theory-based classrooms. This will ensure that students can develop the necessary competencies for their future careers. It is crucial to teach critical and creative thinking and address the evolving needs and challenges of the digital era with innovative solutions. Read more>>

Tanya Paris

I will start by shinning a super bright light on social emotional learning. As a kindergarten teacher I have seen the struggles that many of my students face as they navigate the social and academic expectations that are placed upon their young shoulders. I would love to see a more robust and intentional movement towards incorporating comprehensive Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs into our early childhood education programs. Read more>>

Emily Sanchez

From a young entrepreneur’s perspective, there are several key changes I would propose to the education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career by fostering creativity, adaptability, and entrepreneurship skills, which are essential in today’s rapidly evolving world. I believe it’s important to Introduce entrepreneurship education at an early age. Encourage students to explore their passions, develop problem-solving skills, and create their own projects or businesses. This hands-on experience will teach them valuable skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, and risk assessment. Read more>>

Michael Ross

Growing up I spent several months as a teenager in a farm working my back off helping a small community grow and sustain their lifestyle. I recommend that every high school graduate spend one year in a community service. This would serve two purposes, one build character, and two help the community. Read more>>

Mahalene Dulay

Money is deeply rooted in many different aspects of our lives, no matter where someone is in their journey. As a financial advisor for the last 15 years, a common theme that I see with my clients and my community is the lack of sound financial education. To be clear, I’m not talking about the AMOUNT of financial educational resources and tools that are out there. Social Media and the rise of money influencers have given the masses access to information from savings hacks, investing, home buying and the “secrets” of the wealthy. While this is a great way to get relatable bite-sized information and tips, it’s still not accessible to everyone. Also, let’s be honest… not everyone on the web has the credibility or credentials to claim themselves as a “money expert”. Read more>>

Turquoise Devereaux

I primarily provide services within the education sector where I share knowledge on Creating Culturally Safe Spaces for Indigenous Populations and Students. This approach can be used within classrooms, institutional reform, curriculum development, student services and even hiring practices, However, this requires a decolonized, trauma-informed approach to understanding the experiences that are typically not taught in our westernized education system. By focusing on cultural safety it prioritizes unconditional support for the complexity of identity due to historical impact and lived experiences, which can be applied to any marginalized group, but my focus is with Indigenous populations. Read more>>

Sylvie Froncek

I remember thinking that I wasn’t smart enough when I was in high school because there were core subjects that didn’t interest me. The things that I was really good at weren’t valued as highly, or even available to study. Extra curricular activities with a hands on focus were only available if you found them yourself and could afford them, or make time to take part. This changed in college when my roommate was studying multiple intelligence theory (MTI). As I heard about MTI, I realized that there were skills and abilities that I had which I had never recognized as valuable. Read more>>

KETRINA MITCHELL

The educational system today needs to change and become less unidirectional. The youth of today need to be taught more tangible , real life skills. I am an advocate for education and higher education, however, they must be taught to choose a field you can actually work in, make a living wage from and be happy with. They should be taught to choose a career that if they don’t get paid, they would still get up every day to do it. Start with entrepreneurship, finance and budgeting and mental health awareness in elementary school-not wait until high school. I was raised with the idea of graduate high school, graduate college and live, but how? Read more>>

Audrey Sargus & Mia Karakostas

As the Kent Student Education Association we strive to build up Kent States education students who plan on becoming educators. We offer professional development which is our first step to changing what is happening in the education system. Students need to have all their needs met to reach success. Lessons need to be tailored to them so they can have a personal connection to their classes. Students want to go to school, they want to learn, and teachers offer that. A common hardship in schools is unsupportive administration. As an educator having that creativity and passion is what can drive you and if it is shut down that can lead to teachers feeling burnt out and not being able to help students to the best of their ability. Read more>>

Alexis Soto

In its current form, the educational system frequently favors academic knowledge above adequate practical experiences. If I had to change anything, I would make learning more practical and bridge the gap between academic theories and practical implementations. In order to achieve this, it would be ideal to encourage closer partnerships between businesses and educational institutions. Exposing students to initiatives that are driven by industry, mentorship programs, and interactive seminars from experts could significantly improve their learning experience. Students gain vital networking opportunities as well as a deeper understanding of what to expect in the real world from these encounters. Read more>>