Writer / Leigh Lawson
Photographer / Jessica Kelly
My inspiration for this column came to me while enduring a typical situation experienced by nearly every Center Grove resident. I was driving in the slow pace of traffic on S.R. 135 when I noticed the many rear window decals on the surrounding cars.
As a longtime swim parent, I began to wonder what the parent involvement was like for show choir or football. I knew that my Center Grove High School (CGHS) swim family poured a lot of heart and work into the season. My curiosity became the concept for a behind-the-scenes look at the participation of CGHS parents and supporting staff as a feature column.
The search into the behind-the-scenes has been incredibly enjoyable and enlightening. I started the column by featuring the football parents where I learned that this group took fervor and organization to soaring levels. Surprised by the deep commitment of those parents, I knew that I would find plenty of interesting stories.
I began to question friends with children in high school as well as my daughter’s friends who participated in the numerous extracurricular activities CGHS offers in pursuit of the next column subject.
I discovered that support for our high school students and their activities comes in many forms but shares in equal importance. I discovered that cheer parents focus on being a foundation upon which their girls can shine. The wrestling family is working on building a more tightly knit family. The robotics family has a level of time, knowledge and inspiration commitment that is unsurpassed.
I was amused by the dance team’s gusto in showing pride and humbled by Coach Hannah Mueller’s perspective of being a supportive parent. I knew that Joanny Tolle was a big piece of the administrative support, and I thoroughly enjoyed understanding her value more. Yes, this was a worthwhile journey for me that I am thrilled to continue.
Throughout this past year, I reinforced my belief in the importance and immense value of being a strong supporter of our students and their time at CGHS. The support that we offer does make a difference in the lives of our students, our children.
They are preparing to enter adulthood where the stakes are higher. Our support and enthusiasm now carries them into those battlefields, and having the support of a parent will bolster them for next stage. Besides, it is an incredibly entertaining way to show our love and resolve which will see them into those next stages.
Whether your student is returning for another year and participating in any activity at CGHS or your student is a future CGHS student, be committed to being involved. Not only does it help build confidence in your child, you reap benefits. There are treasured memories and lasting friendships forged, and you experience unique perspectives in the celebrations and the defeats. Most importantly, you strengthen the parent-child bond before the college years.
I plan to keep seeking these stories, and I am hopeful to inspire more participation. I encourage you to be involved and help make an impact in your student’s life and their teammates’ lives. Sit in the front row and show your support. It is vital.
Do not be afraid to step forward and be the catalyst for new traditions that bring the team or group closer together. Lose your timidity or apprehension, and ask the coach what you can do for the team as a parent. Building memories and strengthening community is a matter of the heart.
