Motivate high school students by support their dreams

By Dawn Marie Sicurelli
College of Education
Long Island University, C. W. Post
November, 2010

It is of utmost importance for both teachers and parents to motivate students to achieve their dreams. As a mother of two high school boys, I have always encouraged my children to be their own person and explore the many opportunities that await their future. They are both at a difficult age but I know with my guidance they will make the right decisions to accomplish their goals.

However, as a parent it is sometimes difficult to provide support for an unrealistic goal. For example, my seventeen year old has been playing baseball since he is five years old and always dreamed of becoming a N.Y. Yankee. At the age of nine he was diagnosed with juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and becoming a professional baseball player was no longer an option for him. I think every little boy dreams of becoming a professional athlete but as a parent I refused to tell him that he could not play due to his condition. I always supported him in playing and just recently he came to terms with the fact that he could never play professionally.

About three weeks ago we learned that the arthritis has progressed from his lower extremities to his spine. It was heartbreaking for me when we discussed college options and careers. I told him he can play for a college team as he does in high school but he should choose a back up profession in case he changes his mind about playing baseball. He said “I know I can’t play baseball professionally because of my arthritis, so I will choose a backup plan.” I hugged him and agreed with his decision. He is now considering becoming a sports journalist. I told him that he is an outstanding writer and he would make a great sports journalist. I know whatever he decides to do he will be extremely successful.

Moreover, student’s need support and encouragement from their teachers. Some students are not fortunate enough to have support from their parents. It is very important for educators to extend themselves to encourage students in achieving their goals. Whether it is providing support for doing an assignment or encouragement for choosing a profession. Children look up to teachers and value their opinions. I know from my personal experience going through dental hygiene school as a single mother of two was a tremendous challenge. I do not think I would have completed the program if I did not have the support and encouragement from my teachers. They impacted my life so much so that I am now working towards my degree to become a clinical instructor.
I am proud of my accomplishments and will continue to provide loving support and encouragement for my children. As a professor, I will always make myself available to give the equivalent support I was given as a hygiene student.