How to start second semester off strong

CHS Senior Parker Hollatz studies during Cocoa and Cram. Photo credit: Ingrid Stockman (11) 

As the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year comes to an end, the second semester begins. The spring semester is a fresh start. For students who weren’t fond of their fall classes, this new semester is exciting. However, starting new classes is never easy. 

Discipline 

Of course, staying on top of homework is one of the most important pieces to getting good grades. Commonly, students will neglect doing their homework because they just don't want to do it. It’s important to practice self-discipline and do tasks, even when you don't want to. Going to your teacher's Bear Block can help you focus and offer you direct help from the teacher.  

It’s also important to check your grades weekly. This keeps you aware of what you're missing and what you're doing well on. Skyward is available both using a computer browser and as an app.  Check with the main office if you are having trouble accessing your account.  Checking in with your teacher weekly will also help. 

consider talking to their second semester teachers right away and let them know what their goals are for the semester and what their previous struggles were so the teacher can help them watch out for those pit falls. 

“They [students who tend to struggle in school] should consider talking to their second semester teachers right away and let them know what their goals are for the semester and what their previous struggles were so the teacher can help them watch out for those pit falls. Probably also a good idea to choose an accountability buddy, so a friend they can tell the same information to. What's their goal, what are they struggling with. Someone they can check in with and hold them accountable,” said English teacher Alex Rosenfield.  

To Do lists 

Making To-Do lists is one of the best ways to stay organized. If To-Do lists don’t work for you, finding another way to keep track of things is very important, such as a planner or calendar.  

“Set aside time every night for academics even if you don't have any or don't think you have any homework. Even if it's just half an hour in the evening where you're not digitally plugged in, get focused, make it a habit,” said Omar Stubblefield, CHS science teacher. 

“Time management helps you be able to stay on top of all of your work at the same time. From time management and staying organized, you're able to plan out what work you do on each day. If you stay on top of your work each day, most likely you'll do good in your class,” said CHS Junior Todd Lindsay. 

Seating 

It’s easy to get distracted by your friends, but if you care about doing well in school, it's essential to stay focused. Paying attention during the whole class and asking questions guarantees you will understand the material. Surround yourself in class with people who have your best interests in mind, or you can sit by yourself. Sitting in the front row is a great way to stay focused, since you have the teacher right in front of you.  

“Taking the responsibility to be proactive, knowing you're going to be distracted and being proactive by sitting somewhere in the class where you won't be distracted. Even if that means not sitting by your friends. Knowing that you're easily distracted and keeping that in mine. You have to be proactive and take the responsibility,” said previous CHS teacher, Dayle Massey.