The Role of Athletics in Public Schools in Suburban America

Abstract

Education in the United States is unique in that we associate athletic teams with our public schools. All across the country, countless student athletes use all their physical gifts to represent their high schools and communities. It is common for athletes to become popular amongst their peers because of their exploits on the field. Communities take a great deal of pride in the performance of these teams, which are funded by public tax dollars. Some people suggest that athletics directly associated with schools is a way to champion physical fitness. Others still would assert that the money would be better spent on more academic pursuits. Through the use of the qualitative method these questions were analyzed. Throughout the interviews that were conducted with faculty and students at North Snohomish County High School, a common theme arose. Sports were used as a social device to build community within the school. This community building is viewed as an extremely valuable experience to the students and therefore I believe has a role in the public school environment.