Dear Cottonwood Families,
One of the most rewarding aspects of homeschooling is the ability to nurture the whole child — not just academically, but personally, creatively, and socially. This week, as we open submissions for Cottonwood’s Got Talent, I’m reminded of the many ways extracurricular pursuits not only enrich our students’ lives but also enhance their academic success.
When students dedicate themselves to activities they’re passionate about — whether it’s sports, music, theater, or the arts and so on — they’re not just building skills; they’re developing traits like perseverance, time management, and self-discipline. These qualities naturally spill over into their academic work, helping them set goals, stay focused, and problem-solve creatively. Studies have shown that students involved in extracurriculars often excel in academics because of the structure, confidence, and critical thinking these activities foster.
In our Cottonwood community, we have so many talented students who’ve chosen homeschooling for the flexibility it provides to pursue their passions. Whether they’re spending hours training on the soccer field, mastering a musical instrument, or honing their artistic skills, this time is an investment in both their personal and academic growth. Homeschooling allows families to weave these activities into their days, creating a holistic approach to education where academics and extracurriculars complement each other beautifully.
In my own family, I’ve seen this balance firsthand. My daughter’s rigorous dance training, and my sons’ dedication to soccer have taught them discipline and resilience that they carry into their academic work. Homeschooling has made it possible for them to pursue their passions while preserving family time and maintaining a well-rounded education. Instead of being stretched thin between school and activities, they have the freedom to excel in both.
This week, as we launch Cottonwood’s Got Talent, we want to celebrate all the ways our students shine. This talent show is a chance for your child to share their passions with our school community — whether it’s a skill they’ve just discovered or something they’ve been perfecting for years. Submissions will be combined into a special video production to be broadcast in January, and we can’t wait to see the creativity and dedication that make our students so extraordinary.
Extracurricular activities don’t just enrich education — they are education. They teach invaluable lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and self-expression while adding depth to academic learning. We encourage you to explore new opportunities with your student, whether through our community partners or simply by trying something new.
Let’s celebrate the incredible talents within our Cottonwood community. Encourage your student to submit their video. We can’t wait to see what they’ve been working on!
Kindly,
Kara Parkins