The three weeks between Thanksgiving break and the end of the semester are very important weeks. It is easy for students to slow down on studies as they return from a week away from campus and anticipate an even longer break. Below are five tips to help students finish the semester strong. Finishing the semester on a positive note will help gain confidence moving into the second semester. I will also share these with the students via email.
1. Stay organized. There will be final projects, tests and, in some classes, a final exam. The teachers have shared their plan for the final three weeks of the semester. Students are aware of what is upcoming for all classes after the break. Plan now and do not procrastinate on finishing projects and preparing for tests.
2. Set goals. Students should have long-term goals for the school year, but it is good to set short-term goals for the last three weeks to help stay focused. Ex: Remember, the final year grade is determined by the average of the first and second semesters. You may have an 84 average in a class you have a long-term goal of making an “A” in. A short-term goal may be to increase your average to 86 in the final weeks. Increasing that first semester average to an 86 means you have to make a 94 second semester to achieve that goal instead of a 96.
3. Take care of yourself. As the weather cools off, it is difficult to make time to get out and exercise. This could lead to other things like not getting enough sleep at night. Also making sure you are eating well will help with the focus you need to finish strong.
4. Ask for help. Do not hesitate to approach your teachers, advisor, or our Tiger Tutors program for assistance. If you are having difficulty understanding an assignment, please ask your teacher for clarification. Everyone at Darlington is here to help! Take advantage of all the resources we have available.
5. Stay Positive. There are always highs and lows. The end of the semester is no different. Some will begin to feel overwhelmed during this time. Do your best to stay positive and stay focused on one task at a time.
It is easy for students to begin coasting after Thanksgiving break. That is why it’s important to use the Thanksgiving break as a reset and come back ready to finish the semester strong before a much deserved Christmas break.
I am excited to include the two announcements below from our mathematics department and our advancement team. Thank you for your support!
Join Us for "Counted Out" Movie Screening - Dec. 4
The math department invites the entire Darlington Community to a special screening of "Counted Out" on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. in Morris Chapel. This powerful documentary explores why so many Americans don't see themselves as "math people" and shows how we can reverse the troubling trend of declining math proficiency as students grow up. Through personal stories, expert interviews, and scenes of math transformation in action, the film asks: what's at risk if we maintain the mathematical status quo? Following the movie, the math department will share some thoughts and facilitate questions and answers. Please click here for more information on this unique opportunity and to RSVP.
Support the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program
Another impactful way Darlington families make a difference is through the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, a Georgia tax-credit initiative that allows you to redirect a portion of your Georgia income taxes to provide scholarships for deserving students. This year, 61 Darlington students are benefiting from GOAL thanks to the generosity of parents, alumni, faculty and staff, and friends. Your participation helps open doors to a Darlington education for deserving students and strengthens the community that makes Darlington so special. Apply today at www.goalscholarship.org or contact Cassidy Carter at ccarter@darlingtonschool.org or 912-550-9057 to learn more.
