When students feel connected to their school, it makes a significant impact on their achievement.

Research from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that students who participate in extracurricular activities are three times more likely to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and are significantly less likely to skip school than those who do not participate.

Additionally, these students report stronger relationships with teachers and peers, higher aspirations for postsecondary education, and a greater sense of belonging - all of which are powerful predictors of success after high school.

This connection between participation and achievement is recognized throughout Turner USD 202’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan. There are three goal areas that specifically and intentionally reinforce the importance of student engagement:

• Student Achievement emphasizes increasing student efficacy through personalized learning initiatives that include individual goal setting conversations between students and educators. Student’s Individual Plans of Study (IPS) go beyond coursework – it includes extracurricular activity involvement.
• Community Connection focuses on encouraging engagement and pride in our schools and community through local service, partnerships, and celebration of student accomplishments.
• Positive Learning & Work Environment commits to promoting a positive school climate by ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all. Extracurricular opportunities where students feel included adds to a supportive school climate.

Each of these strategies highlight the importance of involvement and belonging beyond the classroom. As NCES data makes clear, when students are actively engaged in the school community, they are not only more likely to graduate - they are better prepared for what comes next. These reasons are why Turner High School is encouraged by the trend they’re seeing among their students: a steady increase in student participation across extracurriculars. From athletics and performing arts to student-led initiatives, our students are forming connections and shaping what it means to be a Turner Golden Bear.

This increase in student participation began two years ago, but it has been especially apparent in the numbers for this school year. Typically, it’s a struggle to get students to participate in summer weights and conditioning. As an incentive, THS Athletic & Activities Director Dr. Alex Supple provides a shirt for any student athlete who attends at least half of the summer sessions. This year, she ordered 172 shirts – a significant increase from previous years!

Turner High School coaches and club sponsors reported that they’re seeing more students joining and higher levels of engagement this year. Student Council Sponsor Hillary Madrid-Matthews said last year they had around 80 students involved and this year, they have 130 students.

The reason for this increase in student participation isn’t accidental – it’s the result of intentional efforts made by THS administrators and staff.

THS Activities Fair

At the beginning of the school year, Turner High School held an activities fair where 9th – 12th grade students were able to visit with coaches and club sponsors to ask questions and sign up for additional information. This opportunity allowed students to see all the extracurricular options in one place and get their questions answered.

8th Grade Signing Day

In recent years, THS coaches have visited the middle school towards the end of the school year to host a “signing day.” This opportunity allows for 8th grade students to learn more about athletics at the high school and speak directly with the coaches. As part of this event, students can also sign their intent to participate on specific athletics teams, and coaches are able to get names for following up with interested students.

Seminar Meeting Opportunities

Since the change to a block schedule at Turner High School, clubs and athletics can now utilize seminar time during the week to hold meetings. This has been impactful for students who have after school responsibilities and are unable to meet once the school day is over.

Engagement with Turner Youth Sports & TRC

When youth sports programs collaborate with middle and high school coaches, it helps create a strong pipeline for high school athletics teams. THS coaches have been intentional about connecting with Turner Recreation Commission and creating opportunities for youth involvement; for example, high school teams hosted a variety of youth sports clinics this summer.

We are proud of the increase in high school student participation! We believe that, like the NCES research shows, when our Golden Bears get involved in their school community, they are more likely to experience achievement in many aspects of their high school careers.

Let’s keep it up, Golden Bears!

*Pictures included in this article are from the 2025 THS Activities Fair.