Published: February 1, 1995

Letters

Motivation is the key to success. Teachers must constantly communicate to students why this or that is important and show the short- and long-range benefits of completing the task. It is amazing what young people can accomplish once they realize the personal value and importance associated with fulfilling a teacher's demands.

I am reminded of the movie An Officer and a Gentleman. A group of Navy cadets wants to qualify for aviation school, but they must first satisfy every demand of a very demanding drill sergeant. The sergeant pours it on for weeks and weeks. The cadets complain. Some give up and go home, but others persist. During the training period, they literally hate the sergeant. But at graduation, as officers and gentlemen, they can only show gratitude. Tough standards, discipline, and demanding tasks had helped them fulfill their goals.

Ruenzel's findings and comments are worthy of reflection and examination. Bringing football practice into the classroom may not be practical, but the philosophy of discipline and strenuous effort has its place...