Around this time of year, students and teachers begin to prepare for the new school year, or have already started their respective academic term. Entering high school is daunting enough for most high schools’ students, having to approach a vastly different environment from what the average high schooler expects presents entirely new challenges never seen before. With the new year on the horizon, the mindsets of high school faculty and its student body cover many different parts of the spectrum.

Most schools are taking the initiative with beginning their semesters through remote learning. As this is the safest approach, it is not without its repercussions. In some cases, students may not be properly equipped with the technology for a virtual classroom and teachers won’t have the same engagement power as in-person learning would normally allow. Educators have had to brace themselves to adapt to new tools and methods of teaching.

Questions regarding their futures with the current state of the world linger as high school juniors and seniors prepare for the next stage of their life. Whether or not the athletic season happens, student athletes can demonstrate the discipline they have learned through training and practice to keep themselves healthy both physically and mentally. As for non-student athletes, “upskilling” or learning additional skills is much easier with the amount of resources available as a way to work towards the future.

Students have always looked towards teachers for answers and guidance. For once, teachers and students find themselves on the same level with each other treading new territory with virtual learning and less social engagement. Some teachers have incorporated “breakout rooms” during their virtual classrooms for students, allowing group work and a structured time for socializing. Adapting isn’t always going to be easy, but teachers are looking to set a new standard in their profession with their students following suit.

“Knowledge is power.”

The more a person knows, the more he/she can build a strong sense of security. While the current generation of high school students are faced with a dilemma, they have access to a wealth of resources not available to prior generations. The inconveniences of life have been magnified by the pandemic; students are presented with the choice of simply adjusting or taking an active approach to mitigate those issues to move towards their futures. Some remain ambitious, while others still find themselves adjusting to a new reality.