Page 3 - 2024 GPS Mid-Year (English Publication)

participating in the band is an incredibly valuable
extracurricular activity that provides students with
detail-oriented skills that are transferable to academic
and social environments.” Whether a student is
looking to improve their cognitive abilities, develop
important social skills, or simply express themselves
creatively, the band is excellent for students.

Similarly, athletic coaches teach more than just
sports skills. Galena Park High School Head Football
Coach Spiro Amarantos and North Shore Senior High
School Head Football Coach Willie Gaston create a
positive team environment that fosters confidence, Athletic Football Coordinator/Head Coach
sportsmanship, and healthy competition. As Gaston Willie Gaston - NSSH
put it, “We are supporting good men who will go on to be good citizens of the community.”
Amarantos and Gaston also work tirelessly to ensure students have
the necessary equipment and facilities to participate in their
chosen sport.

Participating in sports promotes physical fitness and overall
health while teaching students important life skills, including
teamwork, communication, and time management. Coach
Amarantos uses “football as a vehicle to mold and
mentor young men into becoming great fathers,
great husbands, and productive members of their
communities.” While sports also lend to a sense of
community and belonging, studies have shown
that students who participate in sports tend to
have higher GPAs and are more likely to attend
college. All are likely because sports instill discipline,
perseverance, and goal-setting, which are
essential for academic pursuits as well. Coach
Willie Gaston may have said it best with, “This
brotherhood of young men lean on and support
each other to ensure success in and out of the
classroom, which will manifest itself into lifelong
success.”

In fact, it is “that little extra” that drives Amarantos,
Christensen, Gaston, and Goforth. The dedication
and hard work of extracurricular teachers provide
students with a well-rounded education and help
them develop into productive citizens and lifelong
learners. We acknowledge and appreciate their
efforts in shaping the next generation.

Band Director Shane Goforth - NSSH