A Pennsylvania father and radio host, John Thompson, qualified to participate in the Boston Marathon this year and was eager to have his nine-year-old twins there to support him. The family turned the marathon into a memorable family vacation, believing it was important for the children to witness such a significant event. John felt justified in pulling his kids out of school for three days, viewing the marathon as more than just a race. This year’s Boston Marathon represented resilience, patriotism, and community strength—valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom.
The School’s Response
However, the principal of his children’s school disagreed and did not excuse the absence. Upon returning from the marathon, John received a letter from the school administration, which he found to be lacking in understanding. While school administrators face challenging decisions, it’s essential they also consider the perspectives of families. If a family chooses to take their children out of school to support their father in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, it should not be met with disapproval.
The Experience of a Marathon
Witnessing a marathon is an extraordinary experience. Having lived near the NYC Marathon route for a decade, I can attest to the electrifying atmosphere—cheering for individuals who have trained hard and often faced significant challenges is incredibly moving. When John wrote back to the principal, he emphasized that the lessons his children learned during the trip—sacrifice, commitment, community spirit, and history—were irreplaceable. He argued that the days missed were during standardized testing, which could be made up later, and the trip was an opportunity for experiential learning.
Setting an Example
John expressed his desire to set an example for his children, instilling in them the value of perseverance. “When they’re playing soccer and want to quit, you don’t give up; you stick with it,” he explained. The marathon was a culmination of this life lesson. In his eyes, the trip was the ultimate educational experience, and he would gladly do it again.
Balancing Educational Policies
In navigating educational policies, it’s essential for schools to apply discretion and common sense. Pennsylvania law allows for educational travel with prior approval, enabling families to make decisions that best suit their circumstances. This situation highlights the need for a dialogue that respects both parental choices and school policies.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, John’s experience with the Boston Marathon illustrates the importance of balancing educational policies with the unique learning opportunities that family experiences can provide. Schools should recognize the value of real-world lessons that extend beyond traditional classroom settings.