To: The Leaders of North Carolina, State and Federal Education Officials, and Community Stakeholders

Our education system is failing. Across North Carolina and the United States, schools are overcrowded and underfunded and struggle to provide equitable opportunities for all students. Our youth are being left behind while decision-makers ignore the urgent need for change. We refuse to accept this any longer.

I, Tykayla, founder and advocate for the future of education, am calling on leaders to take accountability and take immediate action to ensure every child has access to a quality education. I am tired of being overlooked, dismissed, and silenced because I don’t look like those in power, because I don’t sound like them, or because I am young. But my voice will not be silenced, and neither will the voices of our youth.

We demand:

1. Increased Funding for Education – Redirect state and federal resources to prioritize K-12 education, after-school programs, and early childhood development, ensuring that all students, regardless of zip code, receive the education they deserve.
2. More Equitable Opportunities – Implement policies that provide equal access to advanced courses, technology, career readiness programs, and mentorship for underprivileged and marginalized communities.
3. Expansion of After-School and Youth Leadership Programs – Schools should offer more than just sports; we need STEM programs, financial literacy, women’s etiquette, and mentorship programs for boys and girls.
4. Accountability from Education Leaders – Hold policymakers responsible for addressing educational disparities and listening to the voices of students, parents, and educators.
5. A Seat at the Table for Young Advocates – Our voices matter. We demand that youth advocates be included in discussions about educational policies and reform initiatives.

This is not just a North Carolina issue—this is a national crisis. The future of our country depends on how we educate our children today. If our leaders do not step up, we will hold them accountable.

Sign this petition today to demand real change, real funding, and real opportunities for our students. We will not go away. We will not stop fighting. Our youth deserve better, and together, we will make sure they get it.

#EducationMatters #YouthDeserveBetter #HoldLeadersAccountable