Letter: School activities lead to success

Secondary schools and colleges emphasize the importance of extracurricular activities, but it can be difficult for kids to see how the extra time and dedication will benefit them. Participating in extracurricular activities enriches a student's educational experience and school activities can help a student succeed in much more than their academic endeavors.

Academic subjects and extracurricular activities complement each other and develop a well-rounded, socially skilled and healthier student. By doing more than just academics, you will be more active and feel better about yourself.

High schoolers complain they don't have enough time for extracurricular activities. Some think they can go without it or it's not as important as their academics. They argue that staying at school after hours is a waste of time they could be doing something else. The ones who object about their schedule being full either don't care about being involved or they probably are more worried about what their friends are doing.

Many kids don't participate in activities unless their friends are there with them. They have to be with each other so things go just right. Some kids feel afraid of embarrassment so if their friend is with them they won't be as nervous or scared.

While high schoolers are making time to do extracurricular activities, they allow us to make a contribution to our schools and community, which is an important step in preparing students for life outside of academics.

Autumn Loehr

Cedar Rapids