Congratulations on completing your first year of high school! Ninth grade is all about adjusting to new expectations, building good habits, and laying the groundwork for the years ahead. As the school year comes to a close and you reflect on what you accomplish, take...
In the homestretch of your first year of high school, keep your focus on finishing strong. Final exams and last-term grades are a valuable opportunity to boost your GPA, so it’s worth putting in the effort now. Start by checking in with your teachers about...
My 9th grader took the PSAT 8/9 in March, sparking conversations about standardized testing. Although I typically don't talk much about the SAT and ACT until students are in 10th grade, I did get some questions from other parents, so I wrote a blog post...
I learned recently that my 9th grader will take the PSAT 8/9 this month. Most of my conversations about standardized testing are with 10th and 11th graders, so I thought I’d share some thoughts on what younger students (and their parents) might want to know. What...
Ninth grade is all about building a strong foundation for a successful high school experience. That means focusing first on academics, and with the first semester behind you, there may be signs about where some additional focus might be needed. Equally important is exploration. If you...
As we approach the halfway point of the school year, which classes are you enjoying, and where are you doing well? These questions can give you important insight, as 9th grade students will soon be asked to choose 10th grade courses. You don’t need to...
As the year winds down and winter settles in, it’s a natural time for students to feel a dip in motivation—and also a valuable opportunity to pause and reflect. Shorter days and colder weather can make it harder to stay focused, so this is a...
Have you gotten your first high school report card yet? Whether you’re thrilled with your grades or wishing they were a bit stronger, this is the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and plan. Early feedback can help you understand what’s working and what you may...
As we get further into the school year, I hope you’re finding your rhythm and feeling confident navigating high school life. This year is all about building a strong foundation, both academically and personally. Teachers will expect more independence from you than in middle school,...
Welcome to high school! This transition is a big step, and your main goal this year is to make it smooth and build a strong foundation for the years ahead. That means getting comfortable with new routines, staying organized, and getting to know your teachers...