High School Gives You More Options
“The principle goal of education is to create men who are capable of doing new things, not simply of repeating what other generations have done - men who are creative, inventive and discoverers.” ~Jean Piaget
More classes are offered
Think about which subjects you want to focus on. For example, if you like science, find out about advanced courses in science, math, and computers.
Electives
Electives can help you discover your talents, explore new areas, and even decide what you want to do after high school. For example, you may want to consider taking courses in:
- Art- Visual and Peforming
- Business Education
- Family and Consumer Sciences
- Music- Choral and Instrumental
- Technology Education
Study halls
You can use Study Halls to:
- Complete homework
- Prepare for your next class
- Use the Library
- Visit the College/Career Center
- See your School Counselor
- Get help in the Academic Resource Center
How To Succeed In High School
“Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be.” ~George Sheehan
Get organized
Know when work is due. Write down all of your assignments and tests in your agenda so that you can always see what is coming up.
Study
- Avoid distractions. Study in a comfortable place.
- Have plenty of light without glare.
- Put all of your study materials at your designated study location before you begin – paper, notebooks, textbooks, ruler, calculator, etc.
Take class notes
- Arrive to classes on time.
- Listen carefully to directions.
- Bring notebooks and textbooks to class.
- Write clearly, so you can read your notes later.
- Note key terms and important ideas in your notes.
- Review your notes later in the day.
Writing assignments
- Begin by doing your research and reading.
- Make an outline.
- Write a first draft.
- Review and revise your draft. Take advantage of valuable resources available in school such as your English teacher and the English Resource Center.
- Carefully proofread your final draft.
Taking tests
- Have several study sessions before the test.
- Pay attention to review sessions before tests.
- Don’t cram the night before the test.
- Get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy breakfast.
- Relax and manage your test taking time.
Remember Your Grades Are Important
“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Your freshman grades will become part of your high school transcript. This is your permanent academic record.
Colleges and employers will look at your high school transcript to determine whether you are the type of candidate they are looking for.
Many Resources Are Available If You Need Help
“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.” ~Confucius
Teachers Assist with
- Academic issues
- Course selection
- Study techniques
- Extra help in a class
School Counselors Assist with
- Social and personal issues
- Conflicts and crises
- College and career planning
- Planning your courses
- Academic issues
Other Resources
- Math Resource Center
- English Resource Center
- Career Center
- Library
- Academic Learning Center
