Reflections from our Executive Director, Megan Pacheco
As we work with educators across the country, we are deeply concerned about the increasingly complex and challenging environment within and around K-12 schools.
Our hearts are heavy as we witness the emotional toll that students, educators, and families are bearing in the face of shifting policies and growing criticism directed at educational institutions. Long-standing commitments to support and nurture all students are being challenged, creating a climate of uncertainty and concern. In this moment, we are especially mindful of the impact on student and educator well-being and the need to reaffirm our shared commitment to equitable, supportive learning environments.
We want you to know that the Challenge Success mission remains steadfast: to help schools create learning environments where every student feels supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. We know that when students are well, deeply engaged in learning, and feel that they truly belong, they thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. We are here to stand alongside the schools that we serve with clarity and compassion, offering an unwavering focus on what matters most: the success and well-being of every student.
When the future feels uncertain, we ground ourselves in our shared commitments to student growth and learning.
Our core pillars—Well-Being, Engagement, and Belonging—are rooted in what all communities want for their children and what decades of educational research has shown to be effective. Heading into the final stretch of the school year, we will continue to support schools in ways that reflect these shared commitments.
Well-Being → Supporting the Whole Child
Healthy students learn better. By reducing unnecessary stress, promoting balance, and fostering strong relationships, schools create the conditions for students to thrive.
Engagement → Deep and Authentic Learning
Every student deserves access to meaningful, rigorous learning. When students are interested and invested, they think critically, collaborate deeply, and become active participants in their own learning journeys.
Belonging → Supportive Learning Environments
Students learn best when they feel safe, valued, and included. Building a culture of belonging helps students show up, participate, and reach their full potential.
When we want to know what students need, we invite and amplify their voices.
Centering student voice is one of the most effective and constructive ways to advance school improvement, especially in challenging times. When students share their school experiences, opinions, and impressions of adults in the community—what’s working, what’s not—it becomes a mirror for the system, and a map for where to go next.
By amplifying the perspectives of diverse student groups, schools can better understand disparities and respond with care, not controversy. It’s a strategy rooted in respect, transparency, and trust. We invite you to consider centering student voices through an “I Wish” Campaign or Shadow Day this spring.
When we need support, we gather in community and lean on each other.
We know how hard you are working to support the young people in your life. And, we also know that each community is facing unique challenges every day. To that end, we are pleased to invite you to attend a free roundtable discussion with our co-founder, Dr. Denise Pope, and other members of our team. In this “office hours” style gathering we’ll discuss the challenges you are facing in your community right now and how we can support students in the final weeks of the year. We’ll do our best to answer your questions and offer our insights and resources. Sign up here and we’ll be in touch with more details soon.
Thank you for continuing to trust us as partners in this work. Together, we will keep building school communities that care for the whole child—and honor the needs of the whole community.
With gratitude,
Megan Pacheco
Executive Director
