Prairie focuses on whole school experience

I have been the coach of a Prairie boys AAU basketball team for the last six years. I have also coached in the Prairie Recreation League and a younger AAU team two years ago. I have two sons who play. I hope my kids excel at everything they try to accomplish in life whether it's sports, academics, music or simply being good citizens. I also worry about the cost of college.

But I also know that for every one athletic scholarship, there are probably at least 20 academic ones. I emphasize to my boys and the kids I coach how being a good student will take them so much further in life. You never know when an injury will occur and all the hopes of a Division I scholarship shattered.

Prairie has some of the best teachers in the state, beautiful schools and a centralized campus. It promotes learning, the fine arts and athletics.

It is up to parents to teach these lessons and support our mentors (teachers/instructors/coaches). The focus should be on the entire school experience.

As a coach and parent, it is also my job to teach about school pride and team loyalty - being a part of something bigger than yourself or your team. One of these students may become a doctor some day and save an old school teammate's life. Prairie has it right.

Sue Smith

Cedar Rapids