Reader comments
School's out for the big game(s)

Glad to see the educators realize there is more to life than just sitting in a classroom.

Some of the best lessons are learned outside of class.

What will the kids remember? That lesson in Geography class or watching their fellow classmates win the big game?

Kudos for the adminstrators of both schools supporting their teams. Not sure that missing a few hours of classwork is going to set you back academically is it?

It isn't all about academics. School activities are a vital part of the overall high school experience.

If you want to verify Cottonwood high principal's comment about school not being just about academics, just go take a look at their test scores on the USOE website. They are TERRIBLE!!! It is obvious where Cottonwood's priorities are and it's definitely not on academics.

Never, ever... let school interfere with your education. Just do your homework first!!!

To CHS
You are kidding me right? Cottonwood is well known for its "Block" math and physics combo class. With a 90% pass rate in the physics B AP test it proves that that their academic priorities are fine. Also, many state championships in debate and drama; please do not insult every student who has gone to Cottonwood.

I think the reporter missed the story. The question is not whether schools should allow their students to attend the football game, the question is why the game is at 10:30 in the morning? Why does the Utah High Schools Activity Association schedule the semi-final playoff games at Rice-Eccles Stadium anyway? In order to get all the games played they have to schedule games at 10:30 in the morning. Why don't they play the games on high school fields. Is somebody making some money?

Anyone that works in a school knows that often sports will dominate, much to the detriment of learning.

Many times my kids are pulled out of class for games. Of course, they fail assignments, miss critical learning, etc., and all for a GAME.

Sports are great... not necessary, but still beneficial. ACADEMICS are essential. Many schools just have their priorites wrong.

Cottonwood is a great school. Dr. Muse the principal is a great man who supports the efforts of all his students. Go Cottonwood!!!

Re: Colt Tyler--Your experience is anecdotal and does not reflect the data of Cottonwood High as a whole. I'm sure there are the few students who excell, but most are not as are reflected in the UPASS scores found at the USOE's website. Go look at them and you'll see Science and Math scores that are well below state averages and at or below district averages. That doesn't reflect a school who takes academics as its priority. Sports, on the other hand, definitely is a priority there.

I don't know if you noticed, but Cottonwood has not been a top level sports competitor for long. The best teachers pre 2005 (CW break out year in football) are still there and are the best teachers now.

Looking through the USOE website I see no scores for CW or any districts, maybe you should direct me.

Wow! All this over a state semi-final football game? Really? What most of you fail to realize is that these sports are the "carrot" that keep most of the kids going to school; not to mention keeping them physically active. There IS a child obesity problem. These kids aren't just playing a game, they are learning life lessons. Team sports encourages socializing, companionship, self-esteem, problem solving and learning how to compete in life. It not only keeps them physically fit, but mentally fit as well. YES, THEY NEED THE ACADEMICS, that goes with out saying and we all know that, but kids need to feel they are part of something. High School sports have been around longer than most of us have been alive. A lot of our Educators as well as our Government leaders were part of a High School sports team and benefited from academic and sports scholarships to help pay their way through college. I believe our President-Elect was on his High School Basketball team. Didn't hurt any of them to miss school for a few days during their school years to attend or participate in a High School State football game!

I was pulled out of class for sports many times. I still managed to graduate with a 3.9 gpa.

I do find it odd to cancel school for a football game. But its just one day though. no harm.
However, the school and student body really need to focus on academics, but not to leave out sports. In order to think well, You must fit.

Anonymous | 3:28 a.m. Nov. 15, 2008
Glad to see the educators realize there is more to life than just sitting in a classroom.

Some of the best lessons are learned outside of class.

What will the kids remember? That lesson in Geography class or watching their fellow classmates win the big game?

Ture. People need to be ACTIVE to think ACTIVE.

The reporting seriously needs to do more research. Its the Academy for Math, ENGINEERING, and Science. Not English.