Roots That Grow Deep: Boilermaker Pride

Roots that Grow Deep - Boilermaker Pride

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The naming of the sports complex struck a nerve, prompting many to reflect on their past and the bonds they’ve formed with Garfield. This reflection inspired me to address the importance of roots and tradition. It’s because of my deep roots here that I chose to remain in Garfield, and I have many fond memories of this place that my family cherishes.

Understanding our past helps us build strong roots. Have you ever wondered why we’re called the Boilermakers? The story, as it was told to me, is that Arthur Argauer, our National Champion Football Coach, allowed students to write the name of their favorite team on their practice pants. When he saw one student’s pants with “Boilermakers” written on them, he was struck by how fitting the name was for our community. Thus, we became the Boilermakers after Purdue University. How many of us recognize that this is the reason behind our identity?

"What is a Boilermaker?" (Garfield High School (GHS) Handbook)

A boilermaker is an industrial metal worker. Many people do not understand the true worth of a boilermaker. Boilermakers are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful. Through their values they fashion the materials made available to them for the benefit of their community and the world around them. In the spirit of a boilermaker, Garfield High School students shape this resilience like steel. They adapt and persevere to overcome obstacles that may arise. Boilermakers use everything imaginable, every tool offered, in order to forge their path in life. As craftsmen, the parents, faculty and staff help inspire students to establish their own skills. The teachers mold the malleable minds of our students while the administration provides the framework for success. History has taught us those goals can only be accomplished when we combine the varied talents of all our students, parents and staff. This interaction fosters understanding in a diverse community. Through this cooperation comes understanding and through understanding comes greatness. In 1931, Garfield officially became The Boilermakers, and by 1939, National Football Champions. As a school community, we aspire to attain this distinct level of excellence which has been a part of Garfield's legacy. We use previous accomplishments as the blueprint for our future triumphs academically as well as athletically. The tradition of The Boilermaker bridges generations and infuses the fortitude of past champions onto all who enter Garfield High School. Garfield High School is the home of The Boilermakers, in the City of Champions. Ultimately, a Boilermaker is destined to be a Champion. A Boilermaker must make the decision to become a champion. Each student must choose to foster the skills and knowledge presented to them to attain their desired level of success. The process begins with establishing a connection within the school community and the school with the community that continues to grow and flourish as the years progress.”

Garfield has a rich history, and its community members have always worked hard to strengthen bonds. My family often reminisces about growing up here, recalling the many activities Garfield offered for children. How many remember pretzels and “bug juice”? Or the 4th-grade swimming lessons at the YMCA, bowling at Waterfalls Inn, ice skating at Danhert's Lake, and behind Number 5 School? Do you recall Red Simko’s summer programs at the playgrounds, Pleasure Land, Camp Garfield, and so much more? One of the highlights was the Garfield Cadets. Even though I lived a mile away, I can still remember hearing them practice in the high school stadium. These shared experiences brought us closer together, creating bonds that lasted beyond a single day’s activities.

As someone who attended Garfield schools, I can say that camaraderie was one of the best aspects of growing up here. Garfield has always been a diverse community, which has enriched our experiences. While some may be concerned about what our schools can offer compared to wealthier districts, it’s important to remember that education isn’t just about material things. It’s the drive and commitment of the child and family that truly make a difference. Let’s help our students commit to achieving their best potential. This doesn’t mean parents need to hover over their child’s work, but regular check-ins are crucial to ensure that the work is being done well. We should find ways to bring our children together within Garfield’s schools and help them build the roots that will lead to strong commitments to our community.

There’s been a lot of concern about sending children to Garfield Public Schools. Many parents worry about safety and the quality of education, but even the best schools have their challenges. The key to success is parental involvement and working collaboratively with the schools to ensure proper student growth. By partnering with faculty and making decisions together, my children found success beyond our schools. Both of them were honors students in college and went on to earn master’s degrees. They knew their abilities and the expectations set for their growth. This story is true for many students who attended Garfield Public Schools. To this day, our students have been accepted to prestigious colleges, including Ivy League institutions, and have found success in both academic and vocational paths.

The district must ensure a safe and comfortable environment, along with providing the necessary materials to meet required standards. Students should want to go to school, not dread it. Building a sense of pride in being a Boilermaker, part of a family of traditions, is vital.

Sports and clubs played a significant role in helping my children make connections beyond the classroom. While it would have been nice for them to have some of the opportunities I had growing up, we must look to the future to help build the roots that will grow into tradition, pride, dedication, and achievement.

So how do we bring back the pride that once swelled within Garfield’s citizens? How do we change the perception of our community? How do we connect our children to the things that will make them successful? And how do we keep people from wanting to leave our city? Let’s start by speaking positively about our school district and our city, and by working together. There is plenty to be proud of in our children and residents. Let’s continue to build on our rich history. It’s essential that we establish and reinforce traditions that will create positive memories and increase our sense of community.

Garfield High School Alma Mater

Our voices swell with true emotion 

Our hearts o’er leap with joyous zeal 

We sing our song of strong devotion, 

In praises of our dear Garfield. 

Chorus: 

Oh Garfield High School Alma Mater 

E’er faithful true and tried are thou,

 To Garfield High School Alma Mater 

We consecrate our hearts right now. 

II 

Even thou we all shall have to leave thee 

And wander far from sight of you, 

Our hearts will ever, ever praise thee, 

Our love for Garfield still rings true. 

Chorus: 

Oh Garfield High School Alma Mater 

E’er faithful true and tried are thou, 

To Garfield High School Alma Mater 

We consecrate our hearts right now.

There was a time when the alma mater was sung at every event, and students knew the words by heart. I wonder how many students today even know it or reflect on its meaning. It's time to work hard to bring those traditions and that sense of pride back into our schools.

Once a Boilermaker, always a Boilermaker. We bleed purple and gold! (I know I do.)