Not Just For Parents

Why Everyone—With or Without Children—Should Care About Public Education

When it comes to school board elections and public education policy, many assume that only parents of school-age children should be involved. However, public education is a pillar of society that affects all of us, regardless of age, whether we have children, or whether we ever plan to. A well-funded, well-run public school system benefits everyone—young professionals, retirees, business owners, and entire communities.

Here’s why people without children, whether younger adults or older individuals whose children are grown, should care about public education and actively participate in school board elections.

1. Public Education Shapes the Future of Society

The students in today’s classrooms will become tomorrow’s workforce, leaders, and citizens. Their education determines the strength of the economy, the quality of healthcare, the stability of democracy, and the innovation of industries.

A Brookings Institution study found that higher education levels correlate with stronger economic growth and innovation. Moreover, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that individuals with better educational backgrounds are more likely to be employed and earn higher wages, which benefits the broader economy (Brookings, 2019, BLS, 2022).

If students receive a strong education, they become capable professionals—doctors, engineers, small business owners, mechanics, and teachers. If public schools are neglected, we all suffer the consequences of an underprepared workforce, social instability, and economic stagnation.

2. Strong Schools Strengthen Communities

Regardless of age or parental status, when schools thrive, communities thrive.

3. Education Impacts Property Values and Local Economies

home, the desirability of your community, and the overall financial health of your communities.

A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research found that for every 5% increase in student test scores, home values increase by approximately 2.5% (NBER, 2017). Additionally, well-funded schools attract businesses and workers, which drives local economic growth.

When schools struggle, businesses are less likely to invest, families move elsewhere, and property values decline. A well-funded, well-run public education system keeps communities strong and economically competitive.

The quality of a school district is directly tied to property values and economic growth. Even if you don’t have children, the success of local schools affects the worth of your

4. Public Education Supports Democracy

5. Your Tax Dollars Are at Stake

6. Public Education Promotes Social and Economic Equity

7. You May Have Children or Grandchildren One Day—Or Know Someone Who Does

8. You Have Experience and Perspective to Offer

How You Can Get Involved

• Vote in every school board election. These elections often have low turnout, yet they determine how public schools operate.

• Learn about the candidates. Support those who prioritize equity, teacher support, and responsible fiscal policies.

• Advocate for public education. Talk with friends and neighbors, share information on social media, and attend local meetings.

• Volunteer your time. Whether through mentoring, tutoring, or assisting education-focused organizations, your involvement can make a difference.

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Public education isn’t just about students—it’s about the future of our communities, economies, and democracy. No matter your age or family status, you have a stake in the success of public schools. By supporting strong, well-funded education systems, we all help create a better, more just, and more prosperous society.

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Sources

• Brookings Institution. (2019). The link between education and economic growth.

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Education pays: Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment.

• National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER). (2017, 2020). Education, civic engagement, and economic mobility.

• Pew Research Center. (2021). Education and voter participation.

• Harvard University. (2019). The impact of school funding on lifetime outcomes.

• Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). (2020). Best practices in school finance management.