Welcome to the Third Edition of the Champion of Children Education Journal

Nonacademic barriers create roadblocks to learning for children and youth, but there is hope in awareness, and awareness is the first step in generating change.

We know intuitively that the social, emotional and economic conditions in children’s lives contribute to academic success or lack thereof; when children’s needs are not being met in these areas, they cannot learn as effectively. This edition of the Champion of Children Education Journal takes a deeper look at some of these nonacademic barriers to learning, and illustrates how they are being addressed in central Ohio.  As can be seen in this edition's content, central Ohio is making progress in taking an honest look at barriers to learning, and pushing through these barriers to profoundly impact the lives and minds of our children.　

It is easy to get discouraged by the magnitude of the issues affecting our children’s ability to learn, but I hope you'll take heart when you read about some of the ways that schools, communities, families and the media are coming together. Creative initiatives such as Blueprint College: 2.0, powerful awareness-generators like WOSU’s American Graduate forum, generous grants for educational supplies, and life-changing after-school leagues and programs are just a few of the positive efforts you will learn about in this edition.　

Awareness is key and always gives birth to change. As the guest editor of the December edition, I am happy to bring to your attention some of the positive educational changes occurring in central Ohio.

Dr. Bob Bowers is the Chief Executive Officer of the Educational Council and former Deputy State School Superintendent/Associate for Curriculum and Instruction at the Ohio Department of Education.  He is well known for his expertise and his commitment to the advancement of quality education.