Skating and Schooling

      As your child rises through the system he or she is likely to require more and more intense training.
        The  amount of training they do often affects their (and your!) social lives.  It is likely to also impact upon schooling, but need not be detrimental.

           Skate Canada strongly supports educational ideals.  Many skaters have proven time and time again
           that an elite skater can pursue their educational and skating goals equally well.  To do so  requires many of the attributes that are reinforced in skating: goal setting, discipline and commitment.

         Advanced skating is an activity that should be integrated with schooling, not at the expense of
        schooling.  As your child continues to excel, it may become important that you communicate with his or
        her school.  The intent should not to get them out of schoolwork, but to discuss alternate
      ways and timelines when projuects, papers and exams may be completed if and when
       their skating might result in absences.  Some schools are more understanding and
  supporive than others.  Usually, the support can be facilitated through your contact with
       the principal, guidance counselor and/or teacher(s).  Touch base with them at the beginning
      of the school year, so surprises are not sprung upon them.  If you think it can be helpful,
        your club or Section can be asked to write a letter of support verifying your child's
        membership on the team or participation in the upcoming competition, etc.  Then reinforce
      the school's understanding by ensuring your child follows-up with any remedial work
       or extended deadlines.  You may be interested to know of the recent develpment of
         "sport school".  These high schools and community colleges have recognized the demands
    of a talented athlete's involvement in competitive sport.  Some provide special programs
  and services.  The scope of programs vary but typically include flexible class
 scheduling, alternative modes of learning (eg. self-directed, computer-based,
        cooperative, correspondence), and special counselling assistance for athletes to integrate their academic and athletic programs.
 
 

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