What Gen Z Is Telling Us: Prepared and Engaged, but Not All Are Thriving
Since 2023, the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup have surveyed thousands of Gen Z youth about their lives, learning and aspirations through the Voices of Gen Z study. Across all topics one theme stands out: a great education shapes more than academics. It influences how young people feel about themselves and their futures.
Positive school experiences can boost students' life evaluation.
One of the most comprehensive examinations of Gen Z’s experiences.
August 26, 2025
More Gen Zers say they feel ready for the future—but fewer say they’re thriving.
August 26, 2025
As Gen Z students thrive, their older peers signal rising challenges with purpose, motivation and day-to-day well-being.
Videos
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August 26, 2025The 2025 Voices of Gen Z study from Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation finds student engagement at a three-year high. -
August 28, 2025Students reflect on what makes learning meaningful and what helps them feel ready for what’s next. -
August 28, 2025When it comes to staying engaged in the classroom, students say two things are important: hands-on, interactive learning opportunities and teachers who care.
Stories
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September 8, 2025Through the Catalyze Challenge, local innovators are expanding career-connected learning and helping young people build brighter futures. -
To gain a deeper understanding of Gen Z’s perspectives, we’ve collected personal testimonies about what excites students in school and their hopes for the future.
Media Coverage
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Cellphones aren't on school supply lists as Gen Alpha heads back to class this fall. -
From classrooms to careers, the annual “Voices of Gen Z” study uncovers surprising insights into this generation. -
The Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation report found 45 percent of Gen Z-ers were "thriving."
Past Voices of Gen Z Reports
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August 21, 2024Survey finds Gen Zers are overwhelmingly optimistic about their futures, but almost half of them feel unprepared. -
September 14, 2023Survey gives policymakers and researchers an invaluable resource to understand this generation’s needs and take action to address them.