Quotes are great.

Jam-packed with truth and wisdom, and easy to read, they are impactful snippets of knowledge that can be especially empowering for kids.

Below are eight powerful quotes that we believe can have a strong impact on children who find education pointless.

1. “Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of true education.” – Martin Luther King Jr

Being smart is important, but what’s equally, and perhaps more important, is having a good character.

One of life’s greatest tragedies are intelligent people guided by their poor character.

2. “The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

Like in a video game, reading “levels” you up and lets you “unlock” new pathways for success, and ultimately, happiness.

3. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Whether formally or informally, the greatest agents of change in our world have always been educated.

The world is a complex place, filled with complex people and problems.

An education is the key to solving them.

4. “Who questions much, shall learn much, and retain much.” – Nelson Mandela

Sometimes, kids can feel “dumb” for asking questions in class.

But the truth is, asking lots of questions is a good thing.

Generally, people who ask more questions learn more than their peers who don’t.

5. “Everybody’s a teacher if you listen.” – Doris Roberts

The most knowledgeable people in the world listen.

And they listen to diverse sets of people.

Wisdom and knowledge can come from people of all backgrounds – no matter their age, gender, race, religion, occupation, or income.

6. “Learning starts with failure; the first failure is the beginning of education.” – John Hersey

Don’t fear failure. Expect it. Embrace it.

You’re going to learn, and you’re going to go far, kid.

7. “Learning is like rowing upstream: not to advance is to drop back.” – Doris Roberts

The world is constantly changing.

To keep up with these changes, one must continue to learn.

When you stop learning, you fall behind of everyone else who is.

8. “Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” – Marian Wright Edelman

The applications of an education are endless.

With an education, you are empowered to help your friends, family, and neighbors, to make the world shine brighter.

Of the most joyful feelings in the world, the joy of realizing all your years of hard-work in school have paid off, and you’re now directly improving the lives of those around you, may just be the most powerful feeling.