As we wrap up another school year, it’s essential to reflect on the academic journey of our children. Desks have been cleared, classrooms stripped of decorations, and teachers are gearing up for a well-deserved break. Kids, on the other hand, are reveling in their newfound freedom. But before we completely shift our focus to summer fun, there’s an annual event that many parents are all too familiar with: the end-of-year awards ceremony.
These ceremonies typically unfold in a lengthy format, showcasing students who shine due to their natural academic talents. Each year, we hear the same names called out, almost like a well-rehearsed routine. The familiar faces of high achievers sit proudly in the gymnasium, while other children, often overlooked, sit quietly, wishing for their moment in the spotlight.
Awards often include accolades for spelling bee champions, reading fluency stars, top math scorers, and perfect attendance records, alongside cash prizes and trophies generously donated by local sponsors. But is this really the whole story? Shouldn’t we be digging deeper to discover those who put in extraordinary effort yet struggle for reasons beyond their control?
Just as educational standards differ across the United States, so too do the policies of individual schools. Some institutions are commendable in recognizing students with learning disabilities who work incredibly hard throughout the year, but many others fail to acknowledge the efforts of those who may not meet traditional academic metrics.
During a recent awards ceremony, my heart ached as I watched the same students receive accolades while the majority, including my own children, sat unrecognized for their unique contributions. These are the “non-squeaky wheels,” the ones who are quietly trying their best despite facing numerous challenges.
In our school system, countless children with individualized education plans put forth tremendous effort. They often take double the time to complete homework assignments compared to their peers, yet they persevere while others enjoy their evenings. I know this struggle firsthand because my daughter, Mia, has dyslexia. The dedication she exhibited at just 7 years old far surpassed what many adults might muster after a long day.
We need to ask ourselves: where is the recognition for the child with reading difficulties who, through tears, managed to learn ten new sight words? Or for the student with ADHD who fought against their mental barriers to make progress? What message does this send to our children? Are we implying that only those deemed “smart” are worthy of acknowledgment? Are we telling them that their efforts don’t count?
It’s time to make a change. While I don’t advocate for participation trophies in recreational sports, I believe we can do much more in the realm of education to honor those who truly deserve recognition. Our children are counting on us to look beneath the surface.
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Summary
In this thought-provoking article, Laura Evans emphasizes the need to recognize students who work hard but often go unnoticed during awards ceremonies. While traditional accolades focus on high achievers, many children put in tremendous effort yet receive little acknowledgment. By examining these “non-squeaky wheels,” we can provide a more inclusive perspective on education and reinforce the importance of effort alongside achievement.