Extracurriculars

More often than not, you'll have some time in your schedule that you will want to fill. This is where extracurriculars come in. Some will be required, maybe health or gym for a semester. However, try to choose a class that interests you. If you find a cosmetology class interesting for example, this could help set you on your future career path. Maybe join band if you play an instrument, or choir if you like to sing. Just because it's a class doesn't mean it can't be fun!

Ms. Wachter

Teachers are Excellent Resources

As the school year progresses, one of the most important things to remember is that your teachers are here to help.  Whether you need academic help or just to talk about something that is going on in your personal life, do not be afraid to come to us.  Even if it was awhile ago, we have been through the crazy years of high school, too, and we would love to help you thrive for these four years as much as possible.

Ms. Witte

Stress Solutions

One of the hardest parts of high school for a lot of people can be the added stresses.  Therefore, it is really important to figure out right from the start what healthy stress relieving strategies work for you, so that when the big stresses come, you will already know how to handle them.  Some great stress relievers include a stress ball, a kinetic sandbox and sand toys to play with, a happy light for the dark winter months, or even something as simple as taking a nap or dancing and singing along to your favorite songs.

Ms. Witte

Join a Club!

Worried about making new friends? Your best bet is to join an after-school club or sport. It is the best way to meet a bunch of new people who have a common interest. Depending on where you go to school, there could be a variety of different options. My high school had a synchronized swimming club, that had traditions dating back to the 1940's. I met great new friends, and had a really fun time! Just remember, don't try to do too much at once. Academics should come first, but joining a club is definitely a worthy experience.

Ms. Wachter

Advice to new Freshmen

My advice is to remember you are not alone! There are thousands of students across the country starting high school for the first time, and even if they seem confident and prepared, they might be just as nervous as you. Remember that we have all been in your shoes, and we are here to help. Never be afraid to ask a question. As time goes on, you will learn your way around and make new friends! High school is a fun four years of your life, make sure you take the time to enjoy it.

Ms. Wachter

Advice #3 from Ms. Whitehead

Always remember...there is no such thing as a stupid question! Whether you're working on your summer homework or just getting supplies for a class, don't be afraid to ask questions! Sometimes it's better to ask just to be safe, then to not ask and then get frustrated. But before you ask me or another teacher, try asking a peer or solving the issue yourself! Often times, the answer is right in front of you and you didn't even know it! You can post on this blog or email me with any questions you may have.

Ms. Whitehead

Try new things!

Moving on from middle school to high school is a great chance for you to try new things and hang out with different people.  You will have the opportunity to take many new classes that you didn't have the chance to take when you were in middle school.  This will give you the opportunity to find things you didn't know you liked.  You will also have the opportunity to hang out with people you never thought you would have.  Take advantage of this!  You'll never know if you like something until you try it so go for it!