The time of year when students frantically create study guides, review notes, get ready to finalize a stable GPA and prepare for the ACT/SAT is coming close. 

At the same time, many students find themselves easily distracted by thoughts of summer, upcoming travel plans or simply the relief of having two months without school.  The start of the fourth quarter marks an important halfway point in the semester. This is a crucial time as a student to start off strong academically, emotionally and navigate the demands of the last half of the second semester.

According to Niche, Rock Canyon is ranked nine out of 468 of the best public schools in Colorado and 17 out of 371 for best college prep schools. These rankings highlight the school’s strong academic reputation; however, while some students may excel, the pressure to succeed can affect others differently. 

“I think coming back after break made it really tough to get back into the school schedule and stay focused… schoolwork really picks up, and it’s also the middle of club volleyball season so managing everything can be overwhelming, but I try to stay on top of it by planning out my assignments,” Vivi Joll ‘28 said.

As this semester hits its busiest point, it’s a good time to check in with yourself and your peers. Stress can feel overwhelming, but small actions can make a big difference. Students forget that finding balance starts with prioritizing whether it’s organizing your schedule, taking study breaks or setting realistic goals for the week. 

Biology and Human Anatomy teacher, Jeffery Seaquist, explains some tips for students when tests and homework become overwhelming. 

“Having a list is really helpful because it keeps you organized. It shows you what tasks you need to do and how much time each one will take. Start working on that list little by little, and make time to get it done. Don’t say, ‘I have too much to do, I can’t finish it.’” Sequist said.

While phones can be a helpful tool in learning information, a 2015 survey by Bernard McCoy showed that undergraduates used phones for non-class purposes an average of 11.7 times per day, accounting for 21% of class time.

“Another important thing, get rid of your phone. Turn it off, give it to your parents, and tell them not to give it back until later, like 9 p.m. Phones are a big distraction. You’ll get texts, calls, and notifications, and you’ll keep checking things like, ‘Is the world still okay?’ So, put your phone away and focus on your work,” Seaquist said.

Upperclassmen also face unique challenges during this time of year as they have to balance schoolwork, college applications, scholarship deadlines and decisions about their futures.  

According to the source Transforming Education, 94% of U.S. students feel overwhelmed by their academic workload, and mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. On top of academic demands, it’s extremely common for many seniors to feel emotional stress as they prepare to leave behind friends, family and routines while getting ready for events like prom, senior sports seasons and graduation planning.

 Senior Studies and English teacher Kate Kubina is a big advocate for mental health.

“Managing stress is so important, and I really want students to take care of themselves. You need breaks, you need downtime, and most importantly, you need sleep,” Kubina said. “Pulling all-nighters isn’t the answer. It’s about creating a study schedule that works for you.”

Seniors share similar sentiments as the year comes to an end.

“With graduation coming up, it’s so exciting to almost be done, but honestly, senioritis is hitting hard. Getting all my assignments done and coming back to school to actually do the work is a struggle,” Anishma Panta ‘25 said.

Overall, the school year is ending quickly, and with it comes many demands. Taking tasks step by step and prioritizing responsibilities can help students manage their workloads effectively. While this semester may be more challenging, staying focused and maintaining a positive outlook can make the final months both productive and rewarding.