It’s That Time Again Students!

Awe man, why is summer vacation over? We have been on vacation mode since spring break. I am so not ready to go back to school. Why can’t we start school next year when this pandemic is over? There are a million questions that, as a student, you asked. Who will be my teacher? Who is in my class? Will I have friends? What do I need to do differently from the previous school year to be great this year? Am I attending in-person or virtual? Will sports or any other extra-curricular activities be available this school year? Etc.
This pandemic has shifted many things around how we do actual learning for this upcoming 2020-21 school year. Many of you might be doing remote learning, homeschooling, hybrid learning, and going back to an actual in-person classroom set-up. The school year will look different because now we have to wear a mask and stay six feet apart. That will be hard for so many of you because you haven’t seen your friends forever, and it is natural to want to hug, shake hands, dap up, be silly, and be close, and now we can’t do that. Everyone is feeling the same thing you are feeling. Everyone’s anxiety is on high alert and wanting to be safe.
However you decide to learn this year, still make it count. Many of you have goals already in motion, while others may not. Some are maybe struggling, while others may be on top of their classes. If you fall behind,do not worry unless it’s your last year as a senior in high school, then yeah, go into panic mode (just kidding). Please don’t. The following five tips are great starters for you as you prepare for a successful school year.

1. Get a Planner. Having a planner will keep you organized and always prepared for class. It will also help with time management. Most students nowadays have smartphones, so take advantage of the calendar on your smartphones. Remember, your schools usually give you a free planner for the school year, so USE IT! When you don’t plan, you plan to fail.
2. Set Academic Goals. Having goals are significant as you move forward in your academics. You should have no more than three achievable goals that are obtainable. Your goals should not be stagnant. They should always be changing, and you should continually be growing in your learning. Remember, you are setting yourself up for success, not a failure. Having some academic goals can be motivating for you in the learning process.
3. Learn What Type of Learner You Are.  Are you a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner? Every student learns differently, and it is crucial you know what kind of learner you are. Once you know what kind of learner you are, it will help you be a better student and create better study habits. Also, make sure to communicate that with your teachers. It will help them know how to approach learning with you.
4. Know What is Expected of You. Pay attention in class. Know your teacher’s expectations and follow through on them to have a smooth school year. Make sure to keep the lines of communication open with all of your teachers. Never assume. For my high school students, be responsible for your learning, stay on top of your grades, set a time with your academic advisor to ensure that you are on track with your education. You don’t want any last-minute surprises when it is time to graduate.
5. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! We are all guilty of turning work late or waiting at the last minute to complete the project. When you procrastinate, it can leave you feeling stress and not at your very best. Don’t let this be your habit this year. Have a plan and keep track of when assignments and projects are due. Success only comes when you PLAN!

I hope these easy tips will help each of you have a SUCCESSFUL 2020-21 school year!