Helpful hints to share with your High School Freshman

As school begins for your high school freshman, remember these years will fly by so encourage your student to enjoy their time there.  This is where life-long relationships will be built.

Teacher/Staff Relationships

Introduce yourself to your Teacher and school staff.  Your teacher and principal are your allies.  They want you to succeed which help the school to succeed.  Ask questions in class if you do not understand.  They are there to teach you. Also remember your teacher has a lot more names to learn then you do.  It will also make you stand out.

Tour your New High School

It is important to get familiar with your high school.  Most freshmen have an orientation time.  Be sure to attend and don’t be afraid of asking where things are.  You need to know where your counselors office, the cafeteria and especially where your classes are.

Class Assignments and Homework

Stay on top of your assignments and homework.  The grades that you receive in high school are important for your future.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  If you are struggling in one of your classes talk to your teacher and see about tutoring.  You have to advocate for your learning.

Be Yourself

Be intentional about the friends you make.  Friends don’t make fun of you or ask you to do things you don’t want to do.  Make friends that are supportive of your learning.  If they are bringing you down then they are not your friends just class mates.

Get involved

Join a club or two or your school government.  If you are athletic join a sports team.  Make sure that the extracurricular activity does not interfere with your grades.  Most high schools have a minimum GPA for you to participate.

College Trips

Most schools have college trips.  Start attending the trips to both 2-year and 4-year colleges so that you can get an idea where you might want to attend college. 

Be sure to discuss your graduation requirements because some 4 year colleges have subject requirements such as four years of math.  This is called your A-G Requirements.  Some high schools allow for dual enrollment where you can be in high school and take college course at the same time.  This is an option not a necessity.  You want to make sure that you maintain a good GPA in both.

These are just a few helpful hints to challenge yourself during your high school years to be your best.  Stay organized and has an amazing time of learning and networking as this is preparing you for journey into college, military or the workforce.  

Whatever pathway you choose these will set you on the right track to accomplish your goal as a high school graduate.

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