Welcome to your first year of high school! While eight months may seem like a long time, we’ve crafted a handy little playbook to help you tackle each of the four quarters like a pro. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
The first quarter is all about adjustment. Entering high school can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can make the transition much smoother than you may have thought possible. Think of this quarter like the start of a race: keep a solid pace, but don’t sprint too hard. At school, this translates to using your resources (teachers, upperclassmen, fellow classmates, online tools), familiarizing yourself with the layout of the school, understanding how schedules work, and figuring out the most efficient uses of your time. Most teachers will be forgiving if you find yourself late or a bit confused about specific classes. After all, you’re just starting your journey as a Lexington High School student!
When the second quarter comes around, you’ll likely have had the chance to settle in and get more comfortable with how things work at school. Most classes will begin diving deeper into the curriculum, so be sure to stay on top of things. Because the holidays are near, sometimes students get so excited for break that they either slow down in anticipation or struggle to find their rhythm again after New Year’s. Try to prevent that by staying focused on your goals! This quarter is the shortest of the four, which means that each assignment can carry a little more weight than in any of the other quarters. Don’t give up and keep pushing through. When the quarter ends, you’ll be halfway through freshman year!
The third quarter will probably be the most academically intense quarter. Since you’re no longer brand new to high school, teachers often increase the rigor of their classes and challenge you with a greater workload. Afternoon hangouts often turn into late-night study sessions, and I-Blocks and studies become the optimal time to grind for a same-day exam. But fear not! There are plenty of support systems available. Ask questions in class, seek help from peers, and use skills you’ve built up in earlier quarters. If you’re working hard but not seeing improvement, don’t be afraid to change your study habits! Just remember to stay focused. You got this!
Finally, the fourth quarter is your last quarter! While it may feel tempting to slack off and coast into summer break, it is still important to stay focused during this last stretch. Many classes will have final projects/exams (including your first-ever math final!). Teachers tend to get a bit more lenient in quarter four, so take advantage of that by pushing harder in classes where you want to boost your overall grade. Just remember to lock in and end the year with a bang!
