Academics vs. Sports

Many schools today are not making the grade.

Our high school held an All-School Academic Letter Assembly this week.  The purpose was to recognize and present academic letters to students with a 3.6 or higher grade point average.  I'm glad to see the schools recognizing and promoting academic excellence.

But I give our school a C.  There is definitely room for improvement.

The assembly was scheduled for 10 AM on a school day.  Parents were invited but many parents don't have job flexibility to attend these types of events.  I'm one of the lucky ones - I could have been there.  My son was one of those being honored, and I am very proud of him.  But he didn't want me anywhere near the school because students make fun of other students whose parents do show up.  Why would the school put these kids in that position, promoting peer pressure?  Why was this important event not held in the evening when more parents could attend to show support for their children's academic achievements?

Because scheduling an honors event in the evening would interfere with sports.  Heaven forbid any sports event or awards ceremony be held during the school day - they always have to be held when a majority of parents and community can attend.

Administrators and coaches are more concerned about producing "star" athletes and winning teams than they are about producing students who will be successful, productive adults once they get out in the real world.  Many parents share that attitude.

How many of these kids are actually going to be professional athletes, or even play in college?  Very few.  I'm not saying anything against those who will, but too many parents think their kids are better than they are.  In our school, unfortunately, it all depends on who you are.  What your name is.  If you don't have the right name, or you aren't an exceptional player, you don't have a chance.

From a young age, these kids are taught that winning is everything.  Sportsmanship has gone by the wayside.  Parents are living vicariously through their kids.

The school (and some parents) really should take another look at what they are teaching our children.