Running summer track since sixth grade, senior Jasmine Hayes has made her mark statewide in the long jump and triple jump, winning both events last weekend at the Conference Championships.

With the time she devotes to improving her track performance and her academics in hopes of studying animal science to become a veterinarian, Hayes also balances the role of motherhood.

“It’s hard because I go to school then immediately to practice, and don’t get home until 6 p.m.,” Hayes said. “I just run short on time getting everything finished.”

An average day for Hayes includes getting up, dressing herself and her son Jermaine, going to school all day, attending track practice, going home, feeding Jermaine and putting him to sleep, all before she eats, does homework and goes to bed herself.

If Jermaine is spending the day with Hayes’s grandmother, she calls home during the school day to check on her son, but sometimes he spend the day with his father. If the weather is nice, he usually takes Jermaine to the park or out for ice cream, and other times they go to the science center or to lunch.

“It’s not bad if you have really good support,” Hayes said. “My mom and grandma really, really support me.”
Hayes plans on attending college away and leaving Jermaine with her mother until her junior year. Her mom will visit her every other weekend with her son.

Since Jermaine was born on Sept. 14, 2011, Hayes required six weeks out of school. She had an in-home teacher and completed school work at home.

Now, 18 months later, Hayes is able to make her mark on the track team.

“She’s a wonderful addition to the jumping squad,” said jumping and hurdling coach Ms. Kathy Burnett. “She’s very positive and enthusiastic and great at encouraging others.”