Another school year has wrapped up, and kids are basking in their newfound freedom. Desks are cleared, walls are stripped bare, and everyone is ready for a well-deserved break. But before the celebrations kick off, many schools host their annual awards ceremonies. And if you’ve been to one, you know the drill: a long event filled with accolades for academically gifted students. The same names are called year after year, and it’s hard not to notice the same familiar faces sitting in the audience, watching their peers walk up to the stage to accept their awards.
The typical honors include spelling bee champions, top readers, math whizzes, perfect attendance, and various prizes from local organizations. However, I believe we need to dig deeper than just the surface of grades and test scores. We should be shining a light on those kids who give their all but may not hit the mark due to circumstances beyond their control.
Education standards differ across the U.S., and so do school policies regarding recognition. While some schools do honor students with learning disabilities who strive hard, others may overlook these efforts entirely, focusing solely on traditional academic achievements.
At a recent awards ceremony, my heart sank as I watched the usual stars receive their accolades. It wasn’t just for my own kids, but for the vast majority who weren’t acknowledged for their unique struggles and triumphs. I’m referring to those quieter kids—the ones who put in the effort but don’t always get noticed.
Many children with individualized education plans (IEPs) work incredibly hard in school. They might cry at night, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. It can take them hours to complete homework assignments that typically take others just 30 minutes, yet they manage to push through while their peers enjoy their free time.
As a parent of a child with dyslexia, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication and resilience he displayed, even at a young age. It’s a battle just to keep up, and yet there’s often a lack of recognition for the progress made by those facing learning challenges. Where is the acknowledgment for a child with reading difficulties who learns a handful of new sight words, or for those with autism or ADHD who work tirelessly to overcome their hurdles?
What message does this send? Are we telling our children that only the “smart” kids matter? That effort is irrelevant? We need to do better.
Now, I’m not one for participation trophies in sports; the joy of playing should be the reward. But in education, we have an opportunity to recognize those who deserve it. It’s time to acknowledge all of our kids, especially those who work so hard behind the scenes.
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In summary, it’s crucial for us to recognize the unsung heroes in our classrooms—the kids who put in tremendous effort but often go uncelebrated. By acknowledging their struggles and progress, we can foster a more inclusive environment where every child feels valued.