Mapping the Movement

Lately, something really meaningful has been happening.

We have been hearing from people who have been quietly watching, reading, sharing a post with a colleague, or nodding aggressively at their screen while thinking, yes, this. Some of you have finally reached out after months of following along. And a few of you have even said, “I have been fangirling you,” which, not to be dramatic, absolutely made our week.

Those messages matter more than you probably realize.

We Poured Our Souls Into This

Forget the Rankings was built slowly, intentionally, and with a lot of heart. This work came from years of sitting with students, families, and educators who felt stuck in a system that rewards prestige over purpose and pressure over wellbeing. It came from late night conversations, frustration, hope, and a deep belief that there has to be a healthier way to help students think about their futures.

So when someone reaches out to say, “This finally puts words to what I have been feeling,” or “I thought I was the only one who felt this way,” it hits us right in the chest. Knowing you are out there questioning the pressure, pushing back in small but meaningful ways, and wanting something better for students is the entire reason this exists.

If You Have Been Watching From the Sidelines

Consider this your gentle, slightly awkward invitation.

You do not need a big platform. You do not need a perfect plan. You do not need to be loud or polished or have all the answers. If you care about students and are trying to do right by them in a system that often makes that hard, you belong here. Reach out. Say hi. Tell us what this conversation looks like where you are. Ask a question. Share a win. Share a frustration. Curiosity and care get you in the door.

This Movement Is Growing

And yes, somehow, this little idea has gone global.

Forget the Rankings is now in South Africa. Different places, different contexts, different time zones, but the same shared values. The same belief that students are more than a number. The same conviction that change starts locally and spreads through real people doing real work.

Seeing this movement take shape across communities has been both grounding and surreal, and we are deeply grateful. If this made you smile, feel seen, or think, maybe this is my people, we would genuinely love to hear from you.

And consider putting yourself on the map.