Don't Blink

By now I have already talked to the juniors about next years schedule. Each junior should have received in their school e-mail, the web address for the "Google" form that you will use to request your classes. The description for each course can be found here, which is on our website located under student services. Several students have already filled out their form and made their request. For those of you that have not filled out the form yet, remember that they need to be turned in by the end of next week. If you were absent the day I spoke to the juniors (Monday, March 9th), then stop by and see me soon or talk with your English teacher to get the Google form.

One thing that I would hope that all of you will do when selecting your classes for next year is to challenge yourself. Several times I have heard someone say, "which is the easier class" or "you don't have any homework if you take this class". Is that really what you want? I would hope that you realize when you challenge yourself, you can really accomplish so much more. Not only in your classes but also in life. If you are planning on going to college and furthering your education, you should take the extra math classes, the higher level science classes, the Military History or Psychology class or even the writing and literature class. These classes will not only help you when you get to school but they will help you when you are applying for scholarships or applying to a university with higher academic requirements.

I have also heard several students talking about graduating early. I realize that many seniors will only need Senior English next year to fulfill their graduation requirements. If you are one of those students, then please take time to look at all of the other options that you have. For one, you can gain one more year of lab time which means you will learn so much more information that will help you in your future. Many of our labs require you to be here both years to earn any certificates or certifications. Second, there are now so many more options with College Credit Plus (CC+). You can take college credit courses for FREE while you are still a high school student. You will earn credits for both high school and college and it doesn't cost you a cent. We will be doing the CC+ on-line courses here at Vantage and possibly be offering an advanced math class here at school with one of our instructors. Finally, remember that graduating early is not our call, but your home school will make that decision. If that is something you are really wanting to pursue then you must talk to your home school counselor and principal before this can happen.

Finally, I hope you will discuss your choices with your parents or guardians. Talk to them about your plans not only for next year but post high school. You have heard me say this so many times, but your years here at Vantage will fly by. Ask any senior, and if they are honest with you, they will tell you that this year has gone really fast. Your next year will be a fun year and an exciting time for you. I hope you challenge yourself and make the correct decisions about your future. Don't try to rush through your early years, take your time and make the most of them. As country singer Kenny Chesney wrote in his song "Don't Blink"; "Trust me friend a hundred years go faster than you think." I couldn't say it better. The high school years were a great time but they went so fast. I hope all of you will stay here and make the most of your senior year. I hope you will all work hard and accomplish more than you ever thought possible.