Student Success Strategies

Before leaving for school, I eat a healthy breakfast. choose dress-code appropriate clothing to wear. double-check my stuff to make sure that I have everything.

Every class period, I record assignments & information in my planner. I will write neatly and copy everything that is written on my teachers’ boards/overheads. I will have my teachers sign or stamp my planner verifying that what I have written is complete & accurate. I will exit the classroom only after I am clear about what has been assigned: I know how to complete my homework, or project, and I know what I need to do before our next class meeting.

When I return home from school, I relax for a bit and eat something nutritious. I will show my parent/guardian(s) my planner & discuss what assignments need to be done. I will set a  time & work-to-be-completed goals for the rest of the evening. I will show my parent/guardian(s) what they should expect to SEE; evidence of what I will have completed. I will not battle with my parent/guardian(s) about having to do my homework.

Before I sit down to work on homework/projects or to study for tests, I gather everything that I will need so that I don’t waste time by having to get up & down to retrieve items. I will create a workspace that helps me  focus and work productively (good lighting, desk-type seating, quiet environment). I will turn off my phone; disconnect from the Internet; silence my music and stay away from the TV remote.

While doing my homework, I do whatever it takes to devote my full attention to my academic tasks. I take my time and put forth serious effort. I read all assignment directions before attempting to work. I read to understand, not to “find the answers" and write so that others can read it (if others cannot read it, I will be made to do the assignment over).

Before going to bed, I organize my notebook(s) and pack my backpack. I will place my backpack & any necessary supplies in a pre-determined location so that I won’t forget anything tomorrow morning. I thank my parent/guardian(s) for their unconditional love and support.

By continually monitoring the Infinite Campus and Jupiter grades, I am able to check for clerical errors (mistakes made by teacher). I will look for the assignments that are “missing” & ask if I can turn them in (depends on teacher’s “late work” policy). I will also see my most updated grades.  I can see how all of my daily efforts (doing my homework) are being rewarded by good grades and stay motivated.

Most Important Tip (Block Schedule)

Don’t think, “I have an extra day to get my assignments done ”By doing my homework the night that it is assigned, I am able to remember what was taught in class that day.  Also, if I have a question regarding my homework, I can ask my teacher prior to the due date.