Let me begin with the obvious: academic advancement for our students is the first and foremost objective of the NRHEG School District. The commitment to a free education for every child is elemental to our nation’s founding principles of equality and opportunity.
Perhaps it’s no surprise, however, that many students do not appreciate the “gift” of an education which seems to be so much work to acquire. For some, connecting to the concept of being educated takes more than the traditional classroom setting has to offer.
“Connection,” in my opinion, is the most important reason to sustain a wide array of co-curricular opportunities; researchers have found that students who take part in activities have a more positive approach to their academic goals, will feel more integrated into school culture, and are more likely to graduate. The studies also mention “social capital.” Collected data indicates that increased interaction among students, parents, community members and school staff builds communication and synergy which might otherwise not occur. Research also indicates that this “social capital” effect is especially beneficial for lower-income families.
For me, though, the philosophy of co-curricular activities rests in the ideals of shared commitment and personal growth. I believe we are all familiar with at least one person whose horizons were broadened by the challenges and demands of a new activity. As for me, my heart swells each time I see our students pouring their bodies and spirits into a training exercise, practice, or game. If the seeds of lifelong learning and personal growth need a place to take root, I can’t think of a better place than as part of a team.
I am pleased to report that, based on a recent survey of our students, the vast majority have participated in at least a few activities outside the school day. Around 350 responses from secondary students were tabulated: these indicated that only about 30 had never joined a co-curricular program.
Students indicated a wide array of reasons for taking part. The form allowed survey takers to indicate more than one reason: The most frequent response is that the respective activities are fun (274); close behind is that participants believe they have a skill in the related area (238). Respondents also commonly said they were looking for a challenge (216). Among those who had considered joining a program but then did not, the largest reason cited was that they did not have time.
Especially for being a relatively small school, NRHEG offers an impressive range of activities, from the big attention getters like football, basketball (boys’ and girls’), volleyball, wrestling, and track, to cheerleading, trapshooting, soccer, golf, cross country, and gymnastics; from big theater productions like Bye Bye Birdie and Willy Wonka to one-act play, drama club, the speech team, and readers’ theater performances; marching band, concert band, choir, Panthera Vox, jazz band, pep band, and color guard; from yearbook to the school newspaper; from ambassadors to PALS to class officer to National Honor Society to various service projects.
I know the people of our communities enjoy coming—not only to see an exciting game or an enjoyable production, but to see the children our NRHEG “village” is raising, and what they are capable of. I would suggest the “social capital” we gain from our activities is the sense of community: All of us feel connected. The adults are given an opportunity to observe and appreciate the efforts of the young; the students acquire a richer understanding of what it means to be a citizen of the NRHEG Panther Nation.
For all these reasons, my policy as an administrator is to find ways to encourage and increase student participation in co-curricular activities. I say the more dedication, personal growth, and determination, the better. I also say there will never be enough opportunities to help our youth feel connected and valued, so I look forward to any input or suggestions you might have. I look forward to the exciting additions the future will bring to the NRHEG co-curricular program.
