Blog

In the realm of education, the quest for maintaining a balanced budget often leads to difficult decisions. One recurring casualty in these financial struggles is extracurricular activities - the very heart of a vibrant school community. Canyon Creek School in Billings recently found itself facing this predicament as it had to temporarily suspend extracurricular activities and field trips.

When the announcement came that Canyon Creek School had to cut extracurriculars like field trips and sports, the atmosphere was tinged with disappointment. Faculty members and students alike felt the weight of this decision, realizing the impact it would have on the holistic development of the students. Danielle Roberts, the Business Manager and School Clerk for Canyon Creek, shared that the school community was left heartbroken by the necessity of the cutbacks.

Valley Credit Union stepped in with a donation that breathed new life into the school's extracurricular landscape. The unforeseen support not only restored hope but also highlighted the power of a community coming together to support its youth. "We did not expect this, we did not go out looking for this, they came out of the blue and wanted to help us, and it's just amazing," expressed Roberts. This unexpected turn of events injected fresh enthusiasm into the school's staff and students, all of whom share a deep bond akin to that of a family.

The significance of extracurricular activities in shaping well-rounded individuals is well-documented. According to a study from the National Library of Medicine, these activities provide fertile grounds for the development of crucial 21st-century skills, even for students with special needs such as autism. These opportunities allow students to hone their abilities in real-world contexts aligned with their passions, fostering a holistic growth that goes beyond traditional academics.

This sentiment was echoed by the Senior Vice President of Community Engagement, Brandon Scala, at Valley Credit Union, who emphasized that it's unjust for students to miss out on activities that play an instrumental role in building skills essential for their adult lives. This viewpoint underscores the commitment of Valley Credit Union to both education and community enhancement.

In the words of Brandon Scala, kids are indeed the future. This truth resonates not just from a business perspective, but from a humane one as well. Valley Credit Union's donation of $22,000 to Canyon Creek School exemplifies our dedication to empowering the younger generation and nurturing their potential.

Seventh-graders Jonah K and the school's Math teacher, Michael B, shared their elation at the reinstatement of extracurriculars. Jonah expressed his relief at being able to participate in sports without having to navigate membership clubs, while also cherishing the return of enriching field trips. Michael highlighted the importance of activities beyond the classroom in fostering a more comprehensive learning experience.

With extracurricular activities back on the table, the students and teachers at Canyon Creek School are ready to embrace a more wholesome and enriching school year. Gratitude abounds for the newfound normalcy and the opportunities it brings for growth, camaraderie, and skill development. Canyon Creek School is poised to nurture the potential of its students, equipping them with not only knowledge but also the life skills needed to flourish in the world beyond the classroom. As the new school year dawns, a sense of possibility fills the air, carrying the promise of a brighter future for all.