LeBron James and Box Tops for Education focus on the best year possible

As kids head back to school, it is more than just opening another book and the welcoming smiles as they enter a new classroom. The learning to be discovered within those four walls is more than multiplication tables and historical facts. It is a time for children to develop their sense of self, build their confidence and grow into the leaders of tomorrow. This year, Box Tops for Education, Walmart and LeBron James Family Foundation look to spark a conversation on fostering an inclusive learning.

Educators have a huge impact on children. As many parents learned over the past year, the balance of encouragement, discipline and excitement over classroom learning is not an easy task. Even though many of those skills are employed in everyday life, the reality is that teachers have  unique qualities that make them special.

At the same time, all children are different. As everyone navigates their educational journey the path is not the same. From learning styles to forms of communication, the message has to be received in order for it to be learned.

How are Box Tops for Education, Walmart and the LeBron James Family Foundation changing the conversation?

Through this new partnership and the initiative, “The Best Year Starts Here,” the concept looks to change the conversation in the educational arena. While inequalities need to be addressed, there is an emphasis on improvement that can be made. By highlighting educators who are making a difference, others in the field can foster a similar environment and plant the seed to grow more success stories.

As LeBron James said, “Teachers and school staff are some of the most influential people in our kids’ lives. I know firsthand how important it is to see and learn from diverse educators – it builds confidence and creates a connection for every single student.”

That idea of reaching all students is key to this program’s success. With strong partners like Box Tops for Education and Walmart, the best year might start here but the journey will continue long after the last school bell rings.

In many ways, Box Tops has long supported the educational community by providing funding for schools. Many parents can recall clipping those tops and sending them into the classroom once a month. While it might seem like a small gesture, the collective effort brought change to a school. From new computers to gym equipment, the community coming together to make change was uplifting.

Over the years, the platform has changed and Box Tops has adapted. As Lilly Moeding, brand experience manager, Box Tops for Education said, “Since its inception in 1996, Box Tops has always been about helping schools enhance the educational experience with extra funding, but we realized there was an opportunity for the platform to do even more.”

By telling the success stories of educators, the hope is to inspire others to overcome obstacles. Even though inequalities may be present, they cannot be an unsurmountable barrier. When positive change happens, the ripple effect can be tremendous.

The Best Year Starts Here campaign will be part of Walmart’s back to school efforts. The custom campaign will both educate and drive consumers to join the conversation.

The school bell is about to ring. Isn’t it time for everyone to have an open door of classroom opportunities?