Locally grown, and proud of it

These are both products of local public schools. All their teachers were instrumental along the way, showing them the intelligence and ability within themselves. Then, opening the door to learning and igniting a fire that may never be extinguished. That fire to learn and the tools to apply yourself are truly priceless.

In grades K-5, parents volunteering in the classroom is always welcome and allowed me to learn what my child was learning. (Although, I still have not become comfortable with the new math and showing my work). To be a successful locally grown product, a parent needs to be aware and somewhat involved. It has made me a better parent.

There have been pressures, mistakes, and big (but really not so big) problems along this growth.

Competition is a big factor that can cause growth or stagnation. In the classroom or on the soccer field, the running course or the baseball field. I have gotten myself so wrapped up in competition that I was hoping there would be a small earphone device for me to tell my child in center field: “Hey buddy, quit looking at that butterfly and keep your eyes on the ball!” or “Stop biting your nails before your speech!” Would that of made him a better athlete or student? Probably not.

As parents we think we are the best coach ever. After all, we coached them through the potty training and riding that bike. The coaches my children have had really did know best their abilities and talents. Imagine that. Placing too much expectation on your child to be the smartest, fastest, strongest, the best ever – I can comfortably say they may fail miserably.

I don’t have to explain the fact which is all encompassing: they truly have to want it themselves. Competition has been and will always be there, but having healthy attitudes will help them in future situations. Being realistic sometimes is painful, but the life after K-12 is very real.

Both my offspring are very proud of their roots in Camas. From their shows in elementary school, their squeaky band performances in middle school, soccer games, races, Mock Trials, and to the marching band in high school. All have given them exponential growth and experiences that will last with them forever.

Yes, they aren’t the smartest or the best or the fastest. But I have to think the opportunity to be locally grown has helped them develop into the respectful, intelligent, courteous, and helpful young adults they have become. Perhaps a combination of many things and this community.

For the last 16 years attending almost every performance, event, game, race, banquet, and science fair, has been truly been a labor of pride, joy, and love. Complete with all the squeaks.

The Camas-Washougal area has many tools available to become locally grown and successful products. The schools, athletic programs, and community education are places to start. I’m learning it has to be what you make it. Because of the swiftly growing population, many are commenting on how hard it is to handle the change with school classroom size, the bump in crime rates, and the traffic congestion, just to say a few. But these tools are still here waiting for the taking. It’s not perfect, there are faults and issues causing frustration. But then again, so are my offspring. Always room for improvement, but yet awesome in their personalities and ambition.

So as they go out into this world, they carry pride from being locally grown from our community. Their label may not say “locally grown in Camas,” but they know it in their hearts and that’s good enough for me.

My youngest recently commented: “Yeah, I’m happy and proud to be from Camas. My schooling has been an awesome experience. I love the nature and community that has helped me appreciate this world around us. And even the smell from the mill isn’t so bad.” Locally grown. Maybe not totally organic, but naturally good.

Margaret Svilar transplanted to Camas from Minnesota more than 20 years ago. She was previously employed by Northwest/Delta Airlines, has worked for Camas High School, and presently working on what she wants to be when she grows up.