What happens when students step beyond the classroom walls and into the communities they live in? Meaningful connection. Real-world perspective. And a powerful sense of purpose. In this final episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, explore how community partnerships, mentorships, and internships can enrich learning and help students see their place in the world more clearly.

From skill development to deepened empathy, Jennifer and Kim break down the mutual benefits of bridging school and community. They offer practical ideas for creating “windows of connection” that help students engage with local organizations, professionals, and mentors—gaining confidence, agency, and real-life experience along the way. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or policymaker, this episode is packed with insights on building a future-ready learning environment that extends far beyond the bell.

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https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:10) Introduction

(01:11 - 04:38) Connecting Students to the Community

(04:39 - 06:50) Different Ways of Bridging Connections

(06:51 - 09:28) Mutual Benefits of Mentorship and Internships

(09:29 - 11:41) Unique Benefits of Being Connected to the Community

(11:42 - 13:26) Creating Windows of Connection

(13:27 - 18:55) Creating Positive Impacts for Students

(18:56 - 19:29) Reflecting on Series Highlights

(19:30 - 19:59) Closing