The meaning of education according to Hoops

Sam and I took a different approach to this week's update.  Most of time, this blog is written in our voice. This week we wanted to focus on sharing the voices of the students and staff. We asked the students and staff at Kelly Y a simple question.  Before we give the question and answers away, we want to preface the reason for asking it. 

Originally, when we started volunteering at the Y, our Hoops and Hopes group was primarily focused on activities, sports and having fun with the kids.  Although this is still a component of our service, we now have shifted our focus to academics.  Playing, goofing off and running around helped us bond with the students quickly.  As we grew closer and learned more about them, we began to recognize that the needs were not just for fun.  A major change the staff and Hoops established at the Y is that before any student is allowed to play in the gym or in the game room, they must complete their homework and have it checked.  While we still try to encourage fun in the homework room, we challenge our students to not only get the work done, but to understand and want to understand what they're learning. 

The students we asked vary greatly.  We asked boys and girls of all ages, some of whom are getting straight A's, and some of whom struggle in the classroom. We also asked a few staff members to comment and reflect on their personal definition of education. 

Ryan, age 8 said, "It is Frasier International Academy. I like to ride the bus and go to school."

Mr. Maddox (Executive Director) said, "A process which we can measure success.  The greater the education, the greater the success."

Trevon, age 9 said, "When you learn how to do new things.  I just know it is something that will help me in life."

Janell, age 8 said, "When people learn.  If you get a good education, you can get a good job."

Lariel, age 6 said, "Fun! And good for you."

Jharve, 13 said, "Something you should take very seriously. Something everyone needs to succeed in life."

Ms. Sylvia (runs homework room) said, "It's learning while growing.  It doesn't start in school.  It starts and ends at home."

Anteynette, 6 said, "It is learning.  A grown up is educated.  They have a good job."

And finally, Ms. Joya (receptionist) said, "It's a challenge.  It's a learning experience.  A challenge and experience of receiving, absorbing, and exploring." 

As Sam and I listened to these definitions, we began to think, "We must be doing something right."  That's all we hope for, that someone will learn to value their education. Again, we leave you all with a question, what does education mean to you? And, are you an educator? 

With love and hope,

Sam & Jackie