Why Education Matters More Than We Realize

Imagine waking up every morning knowing your child cannot go to school. For millions of parents around the world, this is real life. Education, which many see as a basic right, is still out of reach for far too many children.

I have always believed that education can change a life. Whether in the United States or in a developing country, learning opens doors. As a parent, I cannot imagine telling my daughters they could not attend school. Yet millions of children face that reality. When children miss out on school, entire communities feel the impact.

During my time as a substitute teacher and teaching assistant, I saw the benefits of education in the United States. Access to school gives children structure, confidence, and opportunity. In many parts of the world, however, school is not required. As a result, children often miss out on skills that could shape their future.

Life Without Schools

What would happen if schools did not exist?

Schools provide more than lessons. They offer stability. They create safe spaces for friendships and emotional growth. Without schools, children would lose daily structure and support.

Parents would also carry a heavy burden. Teaching at home without resources can feel overwhelming, especially for families already struggling financially. In addition, education shapes how children see themselves and the world. Without it, many grow up feeling limited.

According to UNESCO, more than 244 million children and youth worldwide are not in school as of 2023. Education is one of the strongest tools for breaking poverty. Without it, families often remain trapped in hardship for generations. Economies suffer as well because countries need educated workers to grow and thrive.

Making a Difference in Guatemala

Because education matters so deeply, my husband and I decided to take action. Three years ago, we launched a nutrition and preschool program in Guatemala. At first, we focused on children under three. Later, during the pandemic, we expanded to support older children.

Among the families we met were two girls who had never attended school. For the first time, they entered a classroom. Almost immediately, they fell in love with learning. Today, thanks to generous sponsors, both girls attend private school and are thriving.

Through Be Humanitarian, we provide education support, school supplies, and nutrition. I have watched their confidence grow. For young women especially, education reduces vulnerability and increases independence. When girls are educated, entire communities benefit.

You can learn more about global education data through UNESCO here:
https://www.unesco.org/en/education

The Barriers Many Families Face

Although some children gain access to school, many others still struggle. Poverty remains one of the biggest barriers. School fees, uniforms, and supplies often cost more than families can afford.

I once met a mother of five girls in Guatemala. She explained that her daughters could not attend school because they could not afford a pencil. In the United States, that seems impossible to imagine. However, for millions of children, small items become large obstacles.

Because of donor support, Be Humanitarian provides uniforms, backpacks, supplies, and shoes. These simple resources remove major barriers and open the door to opportunity.

If you would like to support a child’s education in Guatemala, visit:
https://behumanitarian.org/sponsorship-donations

The Lasting Impact of Education

Education does more than teach facts. It builds critical thinking skills. It strengthens decision making. It develops confidence.

Children who attend school gain resilience and identity. Without these experiences, many struggle with low self worth and limited opportunity.

Growing up in a country where school is required is a privilege. Sadly, not every child shares that reality. My hope is simple. I want every child, no matter where they are born, to have access to education.

At Be Humanitarian, our goal is to support children from preschool through university. Education opens doors. Together, we can help unlock them.

Education Is the Key to a Better Future

Education benefits individuals and entire societies. When children learn, communities grow stronger. When communities grow stronger, nations thrive.

By working together, we can break cycles of poverty and build a brighter future. Education is the first step.