The Unspoken Rule: Why Top Students Always Get Chosen for School Events
You’ve probably noticed it at some point: during school events, costume contests, or talent shows, the same group of students—often the academic achievers—seem to get picked repeatedly. Teachers call their names, hand them props, and assign them roles without hesitation. For instance, Maria, the consistent “first honor” student in her class, is always front and center during the annual cultural parade, dressed in elaborate costumes. But why does this pattern exist? And what does it mean for students, teachers, and the school community? Let’s unpack this common but rarely discussed phenomenon.
The Student’s Perspective: Pride or Pressure?
For high-performing students like Maria, being selected for events can feel like both an honor and a burden. On one hand, recognition from teachers validates their hard work. “It’s nice to know they trust me to represent the class,” Maria shares. She enjoys the chance to showcase creativity beyond academics, especially during costume contests where she can experiment with themes related to history or literature.
But there’s another side to the story. Repeatedly being in the spotlight can create pressure to “always be perfect.” Some students admit feeling anxious about balancing event preparations with their studies. Others mention subtle resentment from classmates who rarely get opportunities to participate. “I wish teachers would ask others too,” says Juan, a quiet student who’s never been picked for a school play despite his love for acting.
The Teacher’s Logic: Reliability vs. Fairness
Teachers aren’t oblivious to this dynamic. Many explain that top students are often chosen because they’re seen as dependable. “Organizing events is stressful,” says Mrs. Santos, a grade school teacher. “When I need someone to memorize lines quickly or handle last-minute changes, I default to students who’ve proven they can deliver.” Academic achievers, in her experience, tend to manage responsibilities well.
However, this logic risks reinforcing a cycle where only certain students develop soft skills like leadership or public speaking. A 2022 study by the Philippine Department of Education found that 68% of extracurricular roles in public schools are assigned to students with above-average grades. While practical, this approach inadvertently sidelines others who might thrive given the chance.
Parents’ Mixed Reactions
Parents of honor students often applaud the extra opportunities. “It builds confidence and looks great on college applications,” says one mother. But some express concern about burnout. “My daughter stays up late sewing costumes after finishing homework,” another parent admits.
Meanwhile, parents of children who aren’t selected sometimes question the fairness. “Why can’t teachers rotate roles?” asks a father whose son has never been part of a school event. “All kids deserve to feel included.”
Striking a Balance: Solutions for Inclusive Participation
The challenge lies in balancing efficiency with equity. Here are actionable ways schools can ensure broader participation while maintaining event quality:
1. Rotate Roles Systematically
Create a rotation schedule so different students lead events each year. For example, assign emcee duties or contest roles alphabetically or by lottery. This gives everyone a fair shot while reducing teacher workload in decision-making.
2. Skill-Based Auditions
For performances or contests, hold open auditions. Let students demonstrate relevant skills—like singing, dancing, or prop-making—instead of defaulting to academic standing. This levels the playing field and uncovers hidden talents.
3. Peer Nominations
Allow classmates to vote anonymously for event participants. This encourages students to recognize each other’s strengths and fosters camaraderie.
4. Mentorship Programs
Pair honor students with peers who are new to events. For instance, Maria could guide Juan in preparing for a role, creating a collaborative environment rather than a competitive one.
5. Diversify Event Types
Not every child thrives on stage. Introduce events that cater to diverse skills, like art exhibitions, coding competitions, or storytelling workshops. This ensures varied forms of recognition.
The Bigger Picture: Building Confidence in All Students
School events aren’t just about costumes or trophies—they’re opportunities for personal growth. When teachers broaden participation, they send a powerful message: Every student has value, regardless of grades. Take Ana, a struggling math student who discovered her passion for photography through a school fair. Now, she documents campus events, earning praise from teachers and peers alike.
Inclusive practices also prepare students for real-world teamwork. “In my office, projects aren’t assigned based on who got the highest grades in college,” says Mr. Cruz, a local business owner. “It’s about collaboration and leveraging everyone’s strengths.”
Final Thoughts
The tradition of selecting top students for school events isn’t inherently wrong, but it’s worth reevaluating. By adopting more inclusive strategies, teachers can nurture a culture where every child feels seen and capable. After all, school isn’t just about academics—it’s about helping all students shine in their own unique ways.
So next time there’s a costume contest or cultural parade, maybe Juan will finally get his moment in the spotlight. And Maria? She might just enjoy cheering him on from the audience, relieved to share the stage—and the pressure—for once.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » The Unspoken Rule: Why Top Students Always Get Chosen for School Events