Editorial: Preparing future generations the best way possible

As generations evolve and time passes, there are a lot of differences of what we define what’s best for the next generation. It’s a difficult subject to tackle because as with the generations before us, they positioned themselves as a precaution to help the current generation. Truth be told, while we attempt to handle and set up the future for success, knowing what is defined as “success” differs for each person.

A perfect example is the educational system that continuously has standards change. School systems are curtailing to what is now being described as the “profile of a graduate.” While many of us in the community want to see these young people thrive in what they do, starting with the class of 2022, there are certain things that the state system requires for a graduate. Another major factor is that the desire for certain jobs can outweigh the opportunities available for them. An example of this could be the need for schoolteachers, as there is a nationwide shortfall. However, the low salary coupled with more technological jobs becoming available plays a factor into teachers in the classroom.

Each generation works in cycles, with the most unique thing is the saying that “what goes around, comes around.” As I continue to get older, I find that employment falls into this category. The need for blue-collar workers are back in demand once again, making the value of trade school and physical labor in high demand. The advance of technology has also made work-from-home jobs more accessible, allowing more of a convenience in areas such as sales and logistics.

So the question now comes to the part of what can we do to prepare the youth for a world that’s continuously changing? Simply put, there has to be a balance of book knowledge, street knowledge, and use of personable skills. Face-to-face interaction in the workplace dwindles everyday. Students have desires in a variety of areas and just like the generation before, we all have a dream job or career that we want to have.

We are placed here on Earth to love, lead, and provide opportunities for those who will follow us. It’s amazing how there are so many people that exist and each one of us has our own intention and goals. But in order to reach those goals, we have to set others up and put them in positions to be successful just like the people before us. It’s an endless cycle, but with good intentions, leadership, and guidance, it is one where what we do today will impact the results of tomorrow.