A funeral for a former coach
A funeral service for a high school football coach is scheduled for the following day. Gary Minugh, who led the team at Meadowdale High, passed away after a long life spent in education.
The article reflects on a career in teaching that spanned decades, noting that a single conversation with Minugh shaped the author's life. During a late spring afternoon, Minugh called a student over to his desk in the history wing of the school. He told the student that he and another coach, Bates, had noticed him and that he would be a member of the team. The team's defensive unit was referred to as the Savages, a name from the 1980s that is no longer considered appropriate.
At the time, the student was entering his senior year and had not played in any varsity games. He had changed his lifestyle to prepare for the possibility of playing but lacked confidence that he would make the team. The author notes that educators often identify potential in students that the students cannot see in themselves.
This experience connects to research on student success. A 2018 study published in Educational Psychologist found that a sense of belonging is the strongest predictor of a student's motivation, attendance, and academic performance. The study suggests that feeling included encourages students to try harder. This sense of belonging begins with an invitation.
As a new school year begins, teachers and coaches are establishing routines in their classrooms. The author reflects that while he appeared to be a typical student with moderate grades, he required independent and recognizable encouragement.
The author argues that young people must answer three questions to become contributing adults: Who am I? Do my choices matter? Do I belong? These questions are not addressed in assessments or lesson plans, yet the community relies on students answering them. While literacy and numeracy are important, it is also necessary for graduates to understand their role in society.
Teachers and coaches are encouraged to call their students to what they could be in the world. The author advises not to assume that students know their purpose, autonomy, or sense of belonging, regardless of their demeanor or family background.
The upcoming week offers a dual perspective on the role of educators, beginning with a Sunday reflection on a mentor who recognized potential in a student before the student themselves could. This personal recollection highlights how a specific invitation to participate can serve as a pivotal turning point in an individual’s life.
As Monday approaches, local teachers and athletic coaches are set to resume their duties in classrooms and on playing fields. The focus remains on the steady flow of students who pass through these environments, seeking guidance that may help shape their future.
Mason Rutledge, a speaker, author, and coach based in Everett, shared these observations regarding the impact of such moments of invitation.