When we talk about education, it is important to understand the implications this has for the future of our children. The recent state of Louisiana's public school system is not something to be proud of; with many schools having been left in poor condition due to inadequate resources and lack of funding. Quality education is vital for the success of all children, especially those in underserved communities who are deprived of basic needs.
As someone who has previously worked in the public school system in New Orleans, I know first-hand how important good quality education is for our children. Education provides a safe and nurturing environment for them to learn and develop their skills, which will help them become successful adults and contribute positively to society. However, this alone isn't enough; mentoring should also be a key component to support a child’s development. Mentoring can help provide guidance, accountability and emotional support that allows a child to reach their full potential. A mentor can also serve as an example that helps inspire young people and give them hope for a better future.
I am calling on all young adults like myself, regardless of background or current position in life, to step up and do their part by engaging with our children in our local communities and providing mentorship opportunities alongside educational opportunities. With more mentors involved in our communities, we can help ensure that all kids have the opportunity to build upon their natural talents and develop into productive members of society—which will also help decrease crime rates among our youth population. By improving access to quality education, along with positive role models through mentorship, we can create brighter futures for our children!