The balance between parental support and student independence is a growing focus for educators at Highland High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. As students transition into high school, the degree to which parents intervene in academic and athletic disputes can significantly influence student development and program stability, according to a feature by the Highland Rambler.
The National Library of Medicine has noted a correlation between parental involvement in educational activities and adolescent mental health. While guidance in academic activities can boost motivation and study skills, recent studies indicate that such involvement also directly influences mental health, specifically regarding an increase in depression among teenagers.
Highland High School math teacher Sarah Lea, who is also a former Highland parent, suggests that parents should focus on providing resources rather than doing work for their children. Lea noted that her approach with her own graduates was to ensure they knew how to contact teachers or access tutoring to initiate their own help. She emphasized that parents should help students advocate for themselves rather than completing their assignments.
School administrators noted that miscommunications often drive parental involvement. Principal Jeremy Chatterton observed that disputes frequently arise when students provide a single perspective to their families that may not reflect a teacher's true intention. Chatterton stated that while most parents are not the problem, a few highly vocal individuals can have a large impact on the school.
In the athletics department, Director Swede Robinson stated that parents are a necessary part of success when they understand their role. Robinson noted that when parents overstep the line between being a parent and a coach, it can create chaos that leads to the loss of coaches, players, and volunteers.
Highland High School is a school located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The student news site for the school is the Highland Rambler.
Addressing concerns should begin at the lowest level of communication. Robinson advised that parents should always talk to coaches first to determine what level of assistance is appropriate and welcomed for the program.
