Many children in the U.S. headed back to school this week – filling their unused back packs with fresh pencils and notebooks, taking a reluctant first-day photo, and heading in to a new classroom filled with opportunity. At this time of year, as we feel the excitement of a new academic year, it is important to reflect on the importance of education to all people, especially the most vulnerable in our world – displaced people.

In their report released today, UNHCR reports that 4 million refugee children are out of school – an increase of half a million children from last year. Education for these children is particularly important as it can provide normalcy and prevent sexual violence, human trafficking, child labor, recruitment into armed groups, and early or forced marriage.

Check out our publication, Education for the Most Vulnerable, filled with stories and resources from our encounters with refugees and experience providing education to refugees around the world. As many head back to school, become informed about the men, women, and children who have used the gift of education to foster bright futures, empower their minds, and provide opportunities for themselves and their loved ones.