Dear Editor:

There are many instances where we are told that our children’s behavior is not a reflection of their parenting. As a parent of a sometimes rebellious child, I welcome that sentiment. But I would also like to think that, absolutely, our kids are a reflection of how we raise them.

As my daughter entered high school this year, there was a lot of unknowns and perhaps some fear on how she would be welcomed into the school. As a very young 14-year-old entering ninth grade, the thought of interacting with 17- and 18-year-olds can be daunting.

Throughout the cross-country, volleyball, and, now, basketball seasons, I have been quite impressed at how the upperclassmen respect my daughter and her classmates. This past week I witnessed a crowd of juniors and seniors cheer on our girls team to an almost-victory against Ridgway followed by a gathering at the Goldbelt for 5th quarter, where freshmen through seniors sat together and enjoyed a meal together.

They all danced together at homecoming the next night and I marvel at the connections that these kids can make while they are at Ouray School.

In most schools, a freshman wouldn’t dare speak to a senior. That’s simply not the case here in Ouray. I credit the parents for raising kids who have been in these freshman shoes and know that it can be hard being the low (wo)man on the totem pole. A small town can be difficult to grow up in, but I’m amazed by the relationships these kids can cultivate. It just reiterates that we made the right decision many years ago to leave the hustle and bustle of the Front Range to raise our children. I will revel in the joy that my kids have found their people, and they are good. Thank you, Ouray, for being so good to our family.

Vale Hirt

Ouray