We have officially entered the start of the 2022-2023 school year. Though it may be exciting, the beginning of the year can be a stressful time for everyone. Adjusting to waking up early, switching classes around, and trying to adapt to the workload of classes, all while balancing extracurriculars like school or work. Not to fear! The students and staff of FHS have tips and tricks to help start the school year off on the right foot!

“Students accessing their MyDSD to stay on top of the “Graduation Summary” is huge. So often a parent will request this information they have access to in their MyDSD.”, Counselor Alan Porter said. 

This makes it easier to access resources that will minimize confusion between students and teachers. 

He also explained that using the FHS counseling webpage is crucial for parents and students to get information about transcripts, online classes, college admissions, and scholarships. CCR appointments are also a great resource for discussing post-high-school options.

“I make detailed to-do lists with sub-goals to help me accomplish each item. I will drop-kick my phone out of my room so it doesn’t distract me. I also just do school work right when I get it and try not to let it pile up.”, Senior, Josh Hillbig said.

Getting rid of distractions such as phones or televisions are essential to studying effectively.

Lastly, English teacher, Sarah Exon, shares advice she calls “Tips 4 Success” for which she has dedicated an entire section of her syllabus to. 

1. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Taking chances and getting things wrong is an important part of the learning process. 
2. Ask questions! It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or underprepared–we all do at times. But asking questions and wrestling through the answers with a mentor or teacher is often the most powerful way to become quickly engaged in a class. 
3. Find a way of organizing that you can sustain long-term. Whether it’s sticky notes, phone reminders, goals in Summit, or a group chat with friends, having a plan and method for knowing what needs to get done (and when) is huge. Having one that you’ve built into your routine as a habit is even better. 
4. Let your teacher know your name and your needs EARLY. Your teachers have a lot of faces to keep track of. The more positive appearances you make on their radar in the first few weeks, the more likely they will be to notice quickly if you start to struggle.

Following these pointers will ease your back to school stress and benefit everyone involved in the long run.