As students enter their high school years, they’re entering an entirely new educational journey. There’s a lot to learn and experience in the years ahead, and teachers play an important role in guiding them through this exciting time.
One valuable lesson students can benefit from is understanding the years of high school. Specifically, they should learn about the differences between each year, what to expect, and what they can do to make the most of their time in school.
Freshman Year
The first year of high school can be overwhelming for many students. This is the year where they’ll be getting into the groove of high school life, adapting to new schedules, and getting to know their peers.
One thing students can do in their freshman year is to explore their interests. This is the perfect time to try new activities, join clubs, and get involved in school events. Freshman year is also an opportunity to take classes outside of their comfort zone and broaden their education.
Sophomore Year
By sophomore year, students have a better understanding of what’s expected of them and what they enjoy. Now it’s time to deepen their engagement in the activities and subjects they’re passionate about.
This year, students should start thinking about their post-high school plans and what it takes to get there. That means talking to guidance counselors, researching colleges or post-secondary programs, and planning classes to meet admission requirements for their chosen path.
Junior Year
Junior year is the most important year of high school for college-bound students. This is when they’ll be taking the ACT and/or SAT, visiting colleges, and finalizing their post-secondary plans.
It’s important for students to stay motivated and focused during their junior year. They should continue to participate in extracurricular activities and strive to achieve their best in all of their classes.
Senior Year
The final year of high school is bittersweet for many students, as it’s a time of transition and saying goodbye to their high school journey. However, it’s also a year of new beginnings, as students prepare to move on to college or the workforce.
In senior year, students should continue to stay on top of their grades, participate in activities they love, and prepare for their post-secondary plans. That means applying to colleges or jobs, researching scholarships, and completing any necessary final exams or projects.
