Respect the rights and wants of high school youth. If a student chooses to prepare for his/her post-secondary experiences, respect it. Too often, extracurricular professionals are pressuring students, who have future plans on their agendas, to join teams or clubs.

Yes, the experience being on these teams or clubs can potentially produce lifelong positive memories, but that’s only if the student wants to participate.

If a student says, “No, I prefer not to,” they have their reasons. It could be for academic focus or financial preparations for their post-secondary pursuits. Don’t hinder their planning; respect it and even participate in the process. They will respect the staff/ coach more than being forced against their will. It’s the student’s life, not yours.

Daniel Timlen Santa Fe