But First, People

When we think about education, it’s so easy to get caught up in the stuff: technology, data, assessments, curricular materials. We’re not saying we don’t love this “stuff”—it’s all amazing, and we focus on each of these things…a lot! But before we nerd out over the latest classroom tech or dive deep into the wonders of student data, we must always remind ourselves that the real magic of education, what the real secret to success is, it's not the stuff, it’s the humans, the people. And these people always need to be at the forefront of decision making, implementation and anything and everything that systems do to improve. We must slow down and say to ourselves, “But first, people.”

Schools and classrooms can have the most up-to-date technology or best program out there, but if kids do not feel connected to their teacher and school, they will not learn. This is not opinion; this is decades of educational research (and the most consistent (that is my opinion))—what engages and allows kids to learn—is human connection, the feeling of safety and a sense of belonging. Students don’t just learn from basals or the latest find for Google Classroom, they learn from people who are passionate and relentless at what they do every day. They learn through shared experiences, relationships, and those good old emotional connections that keep them engaged, motivated, and wanting more. They learn from feeling like a vital member of a community, where their individual learning is important to their teacher and classmates.

It’s All About the People: The Learners, The Teachers, The School Team

At the end of the day, education is about people—the learners, the educators, and the entire team that comes together to make it all happen. Think back to that school team member who made a difference. That person who inspired you to embark into this crazy world of education. Maybe it was the coach who believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself, or the custodian who greeted you with a smile every morning. Those little moments of connection are what make education so powerful. They’re what fuel the whole system. They’re what fueled you to become an educator or to work in the school system, and now you have that same opportunity to be that to some child in your building right now.

Sure, the tools, the tech, and the books are important, and sometimes frustrating, but it's the people—those meaningful human interactions—that turn education from a list of lessons into an experience that actually sticks and inspires. It’s the kind words, the encouragement, and the belief in someone’s potential that make all the difference.

Teachers: The Core of Education

At the heart of every amazing educational experience is the teacher. And let’s be clear—teachers do way more than just deliver content. They shape the hearts and minds of their students. They’re the ones that spark curiosity, create safe spaces for students to grow, and give just the right mix of challenge and support to help students transform into their best selves.

And it’s not just us saying this—research consistently shows that teachers are the single most important factor in student success. A teacher who is passionate, dedicated, and connected can inspire students to reach new heights. They motivate, challenge, and push students to be their best—inside and outside the classroom.

But here’s the thing: the magic that teachers create doesn’t just happen in isolation. They too need a sense of support and belonging and to feel supported, safe and appreciated. Great teachers offer emotional support and require emotional support. They help students build confidence, develop intrinsic motivation, and learn to take risks. A teacher who makes students feel seen, heard, and valued, feels those things as well from their administration and community, therefore creating an environment where students can thrive and go after their goals with all their hearts.

It’s a Team Effort: The Whole Crew Makes the Dream Work

Now, let’s not forget the behind-the-scenes humans who make all this possible. Support staff, administrators, and everyone in between are essential to creating a learning environment where teachers can do their magic. Without the school counselor who listens, the principal who empowers, or the lunchroom staff who brightens a student’s day, the classroom experience just wouldn’t be the same.

Every single interaction a student has throughout the day—whether it’s with the bus driver, the librarian, or the front office staff—contributes to their ability to learn, feel safe, and grow. And every single one of these interactions has the potential to leave a positive impact. 

When schools and districts invest in their people, they’re investing in the future of every student. Investing in educators, support staff, and leadership means investing in a thriving, supportive educational environment that nurtures the whole child. And that, my friends, is the secret to creating a system that helps kids reach their full potential.

The Impact of People in Education

The impact of education isn’t just about what students learn—it’s about the people who make it happen. Every person in the educational system plays a role in shaping the experience and success of the students.

So let’s keep remembering this: education is a human experience. It’s about the people who connect, inspire, and uplift each other. It’s the heart and soul of what makes learning so special—and why it’s so important to keep people at the center of the conversation.

-Lily Moss