Balancing Academics and Extracurricular Activities

As our students approach the end of the Fall sports season and start forming teams for the Winter sports, as they continue their work on The Little Mermaid, as they complete community service, and as they get jobs, our students are developing and/or honing their time management skills. We know that colleges and universities are expecting students these days to be well-rounded and ready to face the challenges that come with multiple commitments of time. They want students who can perform in the classroom and reach success in other areas that they are passionate about. 

Fortunately, many of our students have discovered a variety of ways that have worked for them so that they can be successful in all areas of their teenage lives, including their social lives. They have learned or are learning how to prioritize their schedules so that they are able to complete all of their obligations to the best of their abilities. Taking time each week to evaluate what is coming up on Canvas and planning their schedules has been instrumental in positive outcomes for many students. If your child(ren) are already doing this, great! 

Some students are still in need of assistance with the development of executive functioning skills. When our teenagers say that they are “handling” situations, it is important for the adults in their lives, especially parents, ask them what that means. While we want students to develop independence, we educators know that they are still children after all. As a result, they may not know that they need help or may feel as if they are in situations way over their heads without knowing whom to turn or how. We want students to feel as confident in the classroom as they do with their extracurricular activities!

If your child will be new to a sport this upcoming season or will be committing more time to extracurricular activities soon, now is a great time to ask them how they plan to manage their time (i.e. completing formative and summative assessments, studying for tests, drafting essays, etc.). Have your children reach out to teachers to get additional help so that they can balance their time well and receive the academic outcomes they desire. 

We are always so thankful for our committed Lakers who want to excel in all areas of their lives! We are here to support them along the way, so encourage them to reach out if they need help. ~ Dr. Leslie Williams, High School Director