REQUEST FOR ADVICE
Hello everyone,
I’m a junior in high school, and it’s that time when we need to start planning our classes for next year. I’m really aiming to secure a “Senior Schedule” at my school, which allows students to take fewer than seven classes and have release periods throughout the day.
I’ve met all the academic criteria—my PSAT scores and GPA are solid. However, my attendance record is the main obstacle due to a combination of factors, primarily bullying I faced during my sophomore year and challenges with oversleeping.
I really can’t cope with another year of a full schedule, and I need to learn how to advocate for myself to get this approved. What steps can I take to make a strong case to my school? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It’s great that you’re proactive about your situation and seeking a solution. Here are some steps you can take to advocate for yourself and improve your chances of getting a Senior Schedule:
Gather Documentation: Collect any documentation related to your attendance issues. This could include notes from teachers, school counselors, or any reports regarding the bullying you faced. It can also help to have any medical notes if sleep issues are involved.
Request a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with your school counselor or principal to discuss your situation. Choose someone you feel comfortable talking to and who has influence in the decision-making process regarding schedules.
Prepare Your Case: Before the meeting, write down your thoughts. Clearly explain the following:
How you believe a Senior Schedule with reduced classes will positively impact your well-being and performance.
Show Responsibility and Improvement: Explain what you’ve been doing to address your attendance issues. If you’ve made any changes to your routine to help with oversleeping or have taken steps to cope with bullying, share those. Demonstrating growth and responsibility can strengthen your case.
Discuss Benefits: Emphasize how having a Senior Schedule would allow you to focus better on your studies, be more engaged, and ultimately prepare you for life after high school. Discuss how it can help you address any remaining challenges and enhance your mental health.
Be Open to Alternatives: If you don’t get approved for the reduced schedule, ask for possible alternatives or compromises that might be more manageable for you. This could include a support plan or resources to help you handle your attendance better.
Follow Up: After your meeting, send a thank-you email expressing appreciation for their time and consideration. This leaves a positive impression and shows your commitment.
Remember, advocating for yourself is a skill that will serve you well beyond high school. Stay confident, and good luck!