What if your child’s future was determined not by their brilliance or determination, but by their zip code? In this talk, Jillyan McKinney exposes the hidden barriers that lock millions of students out of opportunity and shares powerful stories of what happens when inclusion and belonging open the door instead. With heartfelt urgency and practical insight, she calls for transformative action, reminding us that when every child is seen, valued, and supported, our entire society benefits. Jillyan McKinney is an educational leader with over 20 years of experience advancing equity and inclusion across K-12 public education systems. She currently serves as the Coordinator of Inclusive Practices and Integrated Systems at the Sacramento County Office of Education, where she leads initiatives that foster inclusive learning environments and promote academic and social-emotional success for all students, particularly those with disabilities and students from underserved and under-resourced communities.Whether serving as a Senior Director for the Equity and Wellness Institute, piloting an Ethnic Studies program, or facilitating global education initiatives in Ghana, Jillyan brings a unique blend of visionary leadership and practical expertise to the transformative work of systems change. Her mission is simple but powerful: to build spaces where every story is valued, voice is heard, and equity is standard. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx