Alexander High School football players and cheerleaders are starting game day hype early on Friday mornings while serving as volunteers in the car rider lines at nearby elementary schools. Students and parents at Bill Arp, Mason Creek, Dorsett Shoals, Winston, and South Douglas are welcomed on arrival and assisted with the drop-off process for a great kick-off to the day.
AHS teacher Brooke Morris coordinates the cheerleaders’ participation in this effort, and shared her thoughts about the student involvement. “High school students serving in this role build connections between the elementary and high schools, fostering a sense of community,” said Morris.
“Younger students look up to these older students, which helps build excitement and pride for their future high school experience. High school athletes are often seen as role models. When younger students see them volunteering and helping with daily tasks, it sets a positive example of leadership, responsibility, and community service,” she added.
Morris believes this is an opportunity for the high schoolers to practice leadership and responsibility in a real-world context. “It builds their confidence and enhances skills they can use later in life,” she said. “Participating in this type of volunteer work emphasizes the value of giving back to one’s community, fostering a culture of service that can inspire both the high school students and the younger students they’re helping.”
AHS will be hosting Youth Night on September 13 for the game against Villa Rica as an opportunity to build more community involvement under the Friday night lights. Morris said, “We’re really looking forward to our Youth Night in September when we’ll be inviting students and their families from these elementary schools. We’re hopeful this event will boost community support and get more families involved in cheering on our team.”