Mastering Expectations and Academics in Senior School

By Amerie M., Grade 9

Moving from Middle to Senior school is a big leap for students, with tougher classes, more homework, and higher expectations. It’s a challenge, so how are they really handling it? Through student and teacher insights, this article dives into the struggles of surviving—and thriving—in senior school.

“If I miss classes, I feel very behind,” Foster F., Grade 9, said.

Many 9th graders are feeling the pressure of Senior School, especially when it comes to the increased workload. Missing a class can be stressful, as students worry about falling behind on key information that might show up on tests. The jump in expectations, particularly in subjects like science and math, is challenging—where memorizing facts is crucial to understanding and performing well.

Independent study time has been a lifesaver for many, allowing them to catch up on work during school hours.

“You have a lot more freedom now,” Logan B., Grade 9, said.

But with that freedom comes responsibility. As graduation approaches, students realize that they need to mature and take their academic responsibilities more seriously. Colleges will be looking at grades, and poor performance might close doors to future opportunities.

While having more independence is great, it’s a double-edged sword. You can either slack off, or you can choose to make the most of it and put in your best effort. But for some, the pressure is overwhelming.

“How can I get good grades without studying until 1 a.m. every night?” Scarlett T., Grade 9, said.

Others express frustration and you often hear sentences like “My hard work never pays off!” and “I’m so disorganized, this feels impossible!”

It’s time to take a deep breath and figure out some practical strategies to manage this new reality.

“As long as you have an organized system that works for you,” said senior school English teacher Mrs. Marcea.

To stay organized and do your best on exams, a planner—whether digital or physical—is a must-have. It helps you prioritize your time, track assignments, and stay on top of tasks as they come up. Break large projects, like essays, into smaller parts to make them more manageable, so you’re not stuck trying to complete everything in one night. Avoid leaving things until the last minute; last-minute work often leads to more stress and lower quality. When you receive an assignment, jot it down right away to keep it from slipping your mind. Keep a folder for each subject to avoid losing important materials. Prioritize your tasks by focusing more on the upcoming projects, and always ask questions if you need clarification from your teacher. Finally, review feedback and take notes on areas for improvement—learning from your mistakes is key to success.

In conclusion, all you really need to do is put in your best effort and behavior to overcome these challenges of senior school, and of course, like Mrs. Marcea said,

“Staying organized is really the key to managing the workload in senior school.”