New York native and Xavier University student Schuyler Tansey calls for stronger community involvement in elementary education and youth development.

OAK HILL, WV / ACCESS Newswire / March 10, 2026 / Schuyler Tansey, a sophomore at Xavier University majoring in elementary education, is raising awareness about the urgent need for stronger support of early childhood education and expanded community service involvement.

Tansey, who was born and raised in midtown Manhattan, believes that early education is one of the most powerful tools for long-term community growth.

Her advocacy comes at a critical time. According to national education data, many school districts across the United States face ongoing teacher shortages, particularly in early childhood and elementary education. Research from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that a significant percentage of public schools report difficulty filling teaching positions. At the same time, studies consistently demonstrate that early literacy and math skills strongly predict future academic performance and graduation rates.

"Kids notice when you're present," Tansey said. "They notice when you care. That consistency makes a difference."

Tansey's commitment to education is grounded in years of hands-on service. She has volunteered in Mingo County, West Virginia, helping build homes for families in need. She has served at the Romero Center in Camden, New Jersey, and participated in tutoring programs through The Loyola School in New York. She also volunteers through St. James Church in New York

"In Mingo County, we weren't just building wheel chair ramps and doing home improvement, we connected with the people and community." she said.

Housing instability and economic hardship continue to affect communities nationwide. Data from housing advocacy organizations shows that millions of Americans face housing insecurity each year. Tansey believes exposure to these realities strengthens future educators.

"Service takes you out of your bubble," she said.

She argues that service and education are closely connected. Students perform better when they feel supported not only by teachers, but by their broader community.

Research indicates that strong teacher-student relationships improve attendance, classroom engagement, and academic outcomes. Tansey sees these findings reflected in her own experience working with younger students.

"If a child feels seen, they learn better," she said.

Tansey is encouraging individuals, families, and college students to take simple steps to support early education and youth development in their own communities.

Call to Action: What You Can Do

Tansey urges people to:

• Volunteer at a local elementary school or tutoring program

• Support after-school literacy initiatives

• Mentor younger students in their community

• Participate in housing or community-building service projects

• Donate time or resources to organizations that support youth development

"You don't have to be a teacher to support education," Tansey said.

Tansey believes that leadership begins with action, not titles.

When you know where you can make a difference, you move toward it.

As she continues her studies at Xavier University, Tansey remains focused on building a career centered on service, presence, and preparation.

About Schuyler Tansey

Schuyler Tansey is a sophomore at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, majoring in elementary education. Born and raised in midtown Manhattan, she previously attended Tulane University before transferring to pursue her commitment to teaching young students. Tansey has completed a semester abroad at Richmond University in London and has volunteered extensively in community service initiatives, including housing projects in West Virginia and service programs in New York and New Jersey. She is dedicated to strengthening early education and community engagement.

Contact Email: schuylertansey@emaildn.com

SOURCE: Schuyler Tansey