Leading with Sportsmanship. Representing Perry-Lecompton!

A couple of decades ago, former KSHSAA (Kansas State High School Activities Association) Executive Director Gary Musselman published an article about the importance of extracurricular activities. In that article, he referenced Robert D. Putnam’s book, Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis, and shared this quote from the book: “Consistent involvement in extracurricular activities is strongly associated with a variety of positive outcomes during the high school years and beyond, including higher GPAs, lower dropout and truancy rates, better work habits, greater self-esteem and resilience, less risky behavior, increased civic engagement, and greater future educational and career success.” Mr. Musselman added, “Without question, the return on investment in providing extracurricular programs to our students is beyond measure. We would do well to remember that we are about much more important business than simply wins and losses. Every child involved in school activities wins….”

While extracurricular activities are often associated with athletics, there are many other opportunities for students to become involved. Scholars Bowl, band, choir, art fairs, STUCO, Forensics, and the high school musical are just a few examples. At USD 343, our goal is simple: We want every student to find something they enjoy and become involved each year. Through these experiences, students build relationships, develop life skills, gain confidence, and experience many of the benefits described above.

Over the years, it has been exciting to see the positive impact activities can have on our students. They deserve our encouragement, praise, and support. With that in mind, here is an important reminder for all Kaw Fans:
• Players are there to play to the best of their abilities.
• Coaches and sponsors are there to teach and lead to the best of their abilities.
• Officials are there to enforce the rules to the best of their abilities. If a call needs to be questioned, please allow the coach to have that conversation.
• Fans are there to encourage and support to the best of their abilities.

Players, coaches, sponsors, and officials will all make mistakes. Mistakes have always been part of the game or activity. With that said, I have never seen an official change a call because a parent or fan was yelling from the stands. At USD 343, we work hard to help students understand that they represent more than themselves. They represent their classmates, teammates, organizations, teachers, coaches, parents, school district, and the entire Perry-Lecompton Family. The same is true for all of us!! How we conduct ourselves reflects on our schools and community and we should all take pride in representing Perry-Lecompton with positivity, respect, integrity, and sportsmanship.

Years ago, I read an article about being a “Nightmare sports parent,” and it has stayed with me ever since. Unfortunately, I was unable to locate the original article, but I did find another article that references it. (HERE) It is a worthwhile read that had an impact on me as a parent, so I wanted to share it with our PL Family.

Thank you for everything you do to encourage and support our students. As always, please stop by, email, or call if you have any questions, concerns, or celebrations to share.

Thank you!
Josh Woodward, EdD

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The ECC school and early care staff were in the Halloween spirit. The school side were book characters and the early care side was the pit crew. The students enjoyed Halloween parties and a spooky lunch!

Reminder for Blood Drive 11/9/2026.

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