Why do honor roll students consider C’s to be failing grades? I frequently receive C’s myself. The first C I ever got was in middle school science, yet I consistently made the honor roll until I transitioned to high school. I started off with an A in the first few days, but then my grades dropped to a C.

It sounds like you’re navigating some challenging transitions in high school! Honor roll students often set high standards for themselves, and many see C’s as below their personal expectations, which can create a perception that it’s a failing grade. In middle school, the grading scale might have felt more lenient, but high school can be a different ballgame with more rigorous coursework.
Your experience with getting C’s is completely normal. It’s common for students to struggle as they adjust to higher academic demands. Remember that grades are just one part of your educational journey, and many successful people have faced setbacks along the way. Consider reaching out for support, whether it’s talking to teachers, seeking tutoring, or studying with friends. Each grade is an opportunity to reflect and improve! Keep pushing forward; you’ve got this!