It’s been a long strange school year, and at this point, stress is high for many and motivation is quite low. How can we help our kids successfully manage the final stretch of this pandemic school year? CATCH turned to Penn Phillips, Glenbrook North High School Math Teacher/Peer Group Program Advisor, for some answers specifically for high school students.
CATCH: What do you tell students to help them stay focused and productive in the final weeks of this unusual school year?
Phillips: It’s important for me to acknowledge that not all students are in the same place. Therefore, my mantra to them has always been to “do the best you can with where you’re at”. I just want my students to give what they can and continue to grow both personally and educationally. I also want to continue to encourage them to communicate with me whenever they’re struggling. Struggling in life is natural and happens. The ability to ask for help is a life skill that students (as well as adults) need to feel comfortable with in order to reach our full potential.
CATCH: How can parents best support their child?
Phillips: Just like it’s important for me to understand that students are in different places with this situation, I think it’s important for parents to understand where their children are at. Parents know their children best, so I just think continuing to support their children and having open communication is important. It’s really difficult to stay positive, but if we as parents and role models can stay positive, it can hopefully rub off on our children.
CATCH: What advice do you have for parents to set their own optimal mindset?
Phillips: As a parent, I know there are times when I have doubts that my children are capable of accomplishing certain tasks. However, my children have the best opportunity to grow when I believe in them. Things may be tough, but our children are more resilient than I think we sometimes give them credit for. It doesn’t mean our children won’t fail, but failing is part of learning. Continuing to show our children we believe in them and their ability to persevere can be a really powerful thing.
CATCH: We’ve been through such a turbulent year with a mix of remote, hybrid, and in-person learning. How has this impacted expectations in the classroom?
Phillips: Knowing students will need to learn concepts and be able to apply them for years to come, I realize the importance of keeping high standards. Students can’t reach expectations that I haven’t set for them, so it’s important for me to continue to push students to reach their potential. With that being said, I’m also sensitive to those who are struggling who may need more help or a little more one-on-one encouragement.
CATCH: Students in each grade level face unique challenges. What guidance do you have for each age group?
Phillips:
Seniors: Definitely try to find creative ways to celebrate and enjoy your last year of high school. Stay connected to each other and celebrate “together”.
Juniors: Continue doing the best you can for the place you’re at. You WILL find a college that fits you, so stay in the moment and be confident that your hard work will pay off.
Sophomores: Try to build on connections you had or made up until this point. Also, try to be more vocal in your classes now that you are more comfortable with high school expectations. Being more vocal makes it easier to stay engaged, whether you are learning in person or remotely.
Freshmen: Join the Peer Group Program at the Glenbrooks for the 2nd semester to continue meeting new people and staying connected to others.
For All:
1. Keep a schedule (i.e. go to bed at the same time, wake up at the same time, do homework at the same time).
2. Stay connected to people including family and friends.
3. Ask for help when you feel like you need it (whether it be from a teacher, parent, friend, or any other trusted adult).
Looking for more guidance on motivation? Wondering what to do about your kid who isn’t finishing their homework or interested in activities? Watch this CATCH Conversation. Dr. Lisa Novak, a clinical psychologist and CATCH Board Member, and Eric Rovin, a local school psychologist, talk about motivation and kids in elementary school and middle school. What’s normal? What’s pandemic related? How do we motivate our kids?
