As the first semester ends, Hoban students are preparing for the challenges of the second half of the 2024-25 school year. While the festivities and excitement leading up to winter break often leave students longing for summer and scrambling to catch up on missing assignments, there is still plenty of time to regain momentum and finish strong. For freshmen, it is important to recognize that ninth grade holds just as much weight as the years to come. With course scheduling for sophomore year approaching, now is the time to reflect on the skills you want to develop. If you are unsure about what classes to take, schedule a meeting with your counselor, as they are ready to help you craft a balanced and ambitious plan for success. Sophomore year, often marked by the so-called “sophomore slump,” can feel like a grind. The novelty of starting high school has faded, and graduation still seems far away. While procrastinating or skipping assignments may be tempting, staying on top of your work is essential to maintaining a solid GPA. Even small efforts, like submitting assignments on time in Canvas, can make a significant difference. A little focus now can lead to a clean record by the end of the year. For juniors, the pressure intensifies. The workload can feel overwhelming between challenging classes, preparing for standardized tests, and planning for college. However, resources like the Academic Success Center (ASC) and your school counselor can provide invaluable support. Do not hesitate to seek help; utilizing these tools will ease your stress and set you up for success. Finally, seniors may feel the pull of “senioritis” as they approach the finish line. While the hardest years are behind you, staying engaged is crucial. Do not neglect your assignments, and remember that although you may feel they are unimportant, the zero out of ten in Canvas disagrees. Put yourself in a position to be proud of what you have accomplished while making memories that will last a lifetime. Every year of high school comes with challenges, but as Knights, it is important to face them head-on. Keep your head held high, your grades up, and your eyes on the goal as you work toward wrapping up the 2024-25 school year.
