15. Eighth Grade Night at the Game: Recognizing Parents

15. Eighth Grade Night at the Game: Recognizing Parents

This We Believe (NMSA, 2010).

·           * The school actively involves families in the education of their children. Family Involvement

We often hear that middle school students are crossing a bridge between being a child and becoming an adult. There is the speculation that young adolescents, at times, would rather their parents drop them off down the street than drive up to the school and drop them off in front of everyone. I used to say, ‘I sometimes think, in theory, middle school students don’t really want to acknowledge they have parents.’ However, I haven’t seen this phenomenon much; and I wonder if there is a different relationship between children and their parents in this generation.

Tuesday marked the end of volleyball season. Parents were invited to join their daughters at the beginning of the game. The principal welcomed the community to the game and talked about the value of being a member of a team, and the dedication these girls have displayed. She thanked the parents for encouraging their girls to play sports, and thanked them for supporting their daughters. Each eighth grader was recognized and walked with their parent(s) to the coach who handed them a carnation. With the carnation in hand, surrounded by parents, the assistant coach took a photograph of the family. It was a tender moment of joy on each girl’s face.  The moment was beautiful.

There is something romantic about the love of parents, and the willingness of eighth graders to accept that love. Each girl, dressed in uniform, surrounded by a parent, holding a simple bouquet, displayed the essence of what it means to belong, what it means to be supported.  I am so glad I got to watch it unfold. And, they won the game!!! Woo Hooo!

Advice

1)   We must seek ways to allow children to thank their parents.

2)   We must find ways to let parents know they are appreciated. The principal thanked the parents for allowing us to work with their girls, for letting them practice, and for giving them the opportunity to work as part of a team.

3)   As a teacher, consider ways to attend events and activities where students succeed; consider ways to enhance communication between parents and their middle school students.

4)   Parents have a lot of influence on their students. They need to know they are a valued member of the school/home partnership.