Why are students having a harder time with school this year?

Some feel that with the disruptions caused by the Covid pandemic, including having to adapt to a new learning environment, it’s no wonder that students are having such a challenging time.

“Unfortunately, a very large number of students have really struggled this year. It’s a huge problem for a lot of people,” said Journalism and Mass Media teacher Elizabeth Pellicane.

Students and teachers alike have had many struggles since September of 2020. “Not only are we focusing on making sure that you’re getting your work done and getting your assignments done, [and] making sure that you’re getting the standards that you need to have in the class, but we have to make sure that our room is safe for you,” said History teacher Alexander Burruss.

He noted that all the Covid restrictions and changes are also weighing on teachers “because we have to make sure that we’re staying healthy, that we’re not passing something onto, you know, the students or the rest of the student body,” he said.

Another unexpected issue has been a challenge for many students. “Virtual learning changed everyone’s work ethic, where it’s either you get the assignment done on time and spend all day or night on it, or [if the student doesn’t do the work] it gets marked as missing and points are deducted for lateness,” said freshman Brenna Rea. 

Staying on task is another factor that has seemed to loom over the student body. “Personally, I’m just not as motivated to do school work when I’m at home. There’s always some distraction,” said junior Mia Martinez. “Being trapped inside a house all day, sometimes with family, isn’t really people’s idea of fun. There were some days where I wouldn’t leave my room and as much as people like to disagree, it has a huge impact on your mental health,” she added.

Martinez isn’t the only student who has been affected by the pandemic and virtual learning in more ways than one. “My mental health has plummeted since the pandemic has started, which has affected my motivation to get things done. But coming back hybrid has truly improved me getting work done,” said sophomore Brayleigh Campbell. 

When the pandemic hit late last school year, it cancelled many events that students looked forward to, such as Macho Man, Prom, and Graduation. Now, over one year later, the school year is almost over and there hasn’t been even a single pep rally, just one sign that the things that generate school spirit and a sense of community are scarce this year.

For some students, this lack of school spirit, as well as being mostly at home, has made them feel disconnected socially, another thing which hasn’t helped their motivation to focus on education.

So how exactly can you improve your grades this late in the game? Consider these tips:

• Always attend your Google meets for class – While it’s tempting to sleep in and miss class, how are you supposed to understand what’s going on if you don’t attend class? So set your alarm and make an effort to always show up to class, whether it’s a regular day or a virtual day.
• Check your emails regularly (a few times a week at minimum) – Google Classroom sends emails notifying you about new assignments, announcements and new material. By checking your email daily, you’ll be more likely to not miss an important announcement or reminder.
• Ask for help – Again, how are you supposed to understand what’s going on if you don’t participate in class? Teachers are available and ready to help if you’ll only let them know that you need assistance or don’t understand something.
• Look on Power School at least twice a week for missing assignments – You may think that you’ve remembered everything, but it’s easy to miss things, so this could make the difference between getting C’s or F’s. 
• Write down your assignments where you know you will see them – As the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” So make a note where you’ll remember to look, like a reminder app, a written planner, or even on your hand.
• Get your work done long before it’s due – If you don’t want to have all these assignment notes plastered everywhere you turn, get them done early.
• Make a schedule with breaks for rewards. For example, Freshman Brenna Rea says to m suggests that you work for 30 minutes, then take 10 minutes for yourself. After 10 minutes, get back to work and repeat. Having a reward every so often can motivate you to work harder and quicker, allowing you to finish work efficiently.