By Derrick Smith

The community and school district that a parent raises their children in can make a big impact on the children’s lives and help shape who they become. Chasma Hawkes is the parent of two and says she is thankful for the community of Pryor and the school as well.

“The community and parents are so supportive,” she said. “The school is blessed to be able to give them every opportunity to succeed and become better. From strength and conditioning programs to the facilities that they get to be in every single day. My kids have had some great teachers and coaches through their years who have taken an interest in them and pushed them to become better people. I am very thankful for that.”

Hawkes’ oldest, Cayde, graduated from Pryor High School in 2020. As a student, he played football and baseball. He is currently an electrical lineman. Camree is a senior this year. She plays fastpitch and slowpitch softball and basketball and runs track. Chasma is a teacher, but in her free time, she enjoys spending time with her kids, attending concerts, going to the lake, and being with friends and family. 

Athletics and other school activities have been an important part of her kid’s lives, but Chasma says while sports are great, it is more about what they learn that they can carry with them for the rest of their life. 

“I have always prioritized their activities because having them involved in sports or any extracurricular activity teaches them life lessons,” she said. “It goes way beyond hitting a home run, throwing a runner out, or making sure that they get that tackle. They are forced to get along with others, cheer teammates on, they’re taught work ethic, and they’re taught to respect other people and the game. Life is not always easy, it’s going to be very hard at times. Through sports, I feel they learn to overcome adversity and compete for their position.”

Hawkes is more than just a parent in the stands. She is currently an officer in the Softball Booster club.