The Struggle is Real; Adjusting to High School
This past week has been one that I have become accustomed to over the years. Although I am used to the trials of the incoming freshman, they are not. Knowing this, I ensure that I treat each and every freshman student the same each year.
At registration, I let every family know that there is a transitional period for the freshman. Many will come in and will not believe in their abilities to take on the rigor of high school coursework. Many will believe they will not make it through this year. Many honestly believe they will not be successful ---- but they will.
Eventually, they will begin to see their freshman year as an opportunity to learn more about themselves and their study skills. They will learn perseverance and will be able to face up to challenges, both key skills needed for college.
So, what do they need to learn in order to be successful? They need to know that being a good student means they need to evaluate the way they study and how they process material. This in itself is more important than just a good grade, it is giving that student the skills needed to be successful when and if they have to work for a grade. They need to ask questions like how does this relate to what I already know, how does this apply to my life, do I agree or disagree to the concept? This helps dive into deeper thinking and develops those skills of a lifelong learner.
It will come, I promise. The freshman will be successful once again and I will start with a new group next year. In the meantime, help them develop different ways to study, ask meaningful questions, give them study tips, encourage them to get peer tutoring, and support them in their struggle.
We do offer peer tutoring through the National Honor Society. NHS Tutoring will begin on 9/26. It will be held on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:35 - 4:15.
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