Back to School for Good Grades
Smart Habits for a Successful School Year
Staying organized and focused in school is easier than most students think. With just a few simple daily habits, you can dramatically improve your academic performance and overall success.
Here are some suggestions to help you stay on track and maintain strong grades throughout the year:
Start Strong
- First impressions matter—make yours count. Show up on time, stay alert, and show respect from day one. Teachers notice.
- The first few weeks of school are critical. This is when you set the tone and build momentum. Be focused and do your best from the start.
Get Organized at Home
- Your room is your castle—and your workspace. Keep it clean and organized so it supports your success.
- Prepare the night before. Set out your clothes, pack your bag, and place it somewhere easily accessible. A stress-free morning starts with preparation.
- Get enough rest. A tired brain can’t perform well. Set a reasonable bedtime and stick to it.
Own Your Mornings
- Give yourself plenty of time to get ready. Rushing isn’t fair to you, your grades, or your teacher.
- Aim to be early to school and class. Being early shows responsibility and gives you a head start. Winners are rarely late.
Maximize Your Learning
- Sit near the front. You’ll hear better, see better, and absorb more of what the teacher communicates—both verbally and non-verbally.
- Do your homework immediately after school. You’ll remember your lessons better, and you won’t get distracted. The best time to do it is now.
Take Control of Your Life
- Don’t let distractions like TV, video games, or peer pressure control your time. Rule your own life—it’s worth it.
- Learn how to politely end long phone calls. Say, “Can you call back in 30 minutes?” Respectfully protect your time.
- Avoid toxic influences. Walk away from people or situations that damage your emotional or physical growth.
Make Use of Spare Time
- You don’t have to be inactive while listening to music or watching TV. Use those moments for light studying or review.
Respect Your Support Network
- Build positive relationships with your parents and teachers. Respect leads to support—and support leads to success.
- Be selective with your friends. Surround yourself with people who respect your goals and are moving in the same direction.
- If your friends understand when you need to focus on school, they’re keepers. If they don’t, it may be time to rethink who you trust with your time and energy.
Stay Connected
- Swap contact information with at least one person in each class. This helps you stay informed in case of illness or absence.
Commit to Excellence
- Choose to be a winner. Don’t settle for less than your best. If you’re struggling—ask for help. Nobody succeeds alone.
- Remember: Your success is in your hands. You’re worth the effort.