7 tips for back-to-school success

Fall, autumn, harvest, or any other name, the changing of the season means one thing for many people across the country – back-to-school time. Whether you are a young person starting a new high school or an educator beginning a new year, back-to-school time is a chance to start anew and commence the school cycle on the right foot. Starting a new year is exciting but can also be quite overwhelming for many. As an educator, I have seen this sense of uncertainty, coupled with enthusiasm, for many years in students and teachers attending programs at the TGR Learning Lab. Whether you are a veteran educator or young student, here are some tips on how to rid yourself of the back-to-school blues:

1. Get organized: Being organized is the easiest way to ensure success at the beginning of a school year. Organization looks different for many people, some like to use a notebook or calendar, while others use tablets and various apps to stay prepared.
2. Set goals: Set short-term and long-term goals for your school year. Goals will keep you on track and help you keep a vision of what you want to accomplish. Be sure to develop SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) goals to help keep you on track.
3. Set up a meeting with a counselor: If you are starting a new high school year, set up a meeting with your counselor to discuss your academic goals and college/ career vision. Make sure you are on track to graduate and are taking the proper classes for the type of college for which you aspire to apply. If you’re a teacher, speak with leaders in your administration to get on the same page regarding instructional goals.
4. Talk to your teachers: Arrive early or stay late after class for a moment to talk to your teachers individually. This small gesture will help you in ways you could never imagine. As a teacher, I want to help all my students but will go the extra mile for those who reach out to me.
5. Eat healthy: Maintaining a healthy diet is a surprisingly simple way to help ourselves feel better quickly. Students can sign up for our Nutrition & Fitness class at the TGR Learning Lab in Anaheim in spring of 2018 for tips on how to develop a healthy and sustainable change in diet.
6. Get involved: Join a club, sport or volunteer. These are great ways to meet new friends and to find balance. Helping others as a volunteer or running three miles in cross country will give you a sense of intrinsic accomplishment that will keep you going. You may be able to volunteer at one of the TGR Learning Labs across the country!
7. Have fun: Do not forget to have fun on this journey. Set aside some ‘me’ time where you get together with friends or family. Additionally, resolve to do some activities on your own. Again, balance is key and will keep you refreshed and focused on attaining your goals.

Heading back to school is a welcome change in season and focus. It is an opportunity to establish new habits and build a foundation for a successful year. Keep these tips in mind and you will be on your way to a great year!

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