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Welcome to the Academic Success page! Here you'll find tips and tricks to help you stay organized, study effectively, and thrive at Sunset Ridge. Use these resources to reach your goals and make the most of your learning.
ASKING FOR HELP
Everyone needs a little help sometimes, and that’s okay! Whether it’s asking a teacher a question, working with your school counselor or learning some study tips.
Your Teachers: They want you to succeed! If you don’t understand something, raise your hand, email them, or stop by before or after school.
Your School Counselor: They are here to help you do better in school. Whether that is learning how to manage your stress levels or learn some study strategies to help you thrive in school, they are here to help you.
STAY ON TOP OF YOUR WORK
Organization is the key to success! From writing down assignments to checking Canvas every day, small habits can make a big difference in staying on top of your schoolwork. Let’s make sure you’re always one step ahead!
Write It Down: Use a planner or notebook to track your assignments, tests, and due dates. Review it at the start and end of each day. Writing it down will better help you remember it.
Check Canvas Daily: Canvas is your best friend! Log in every day to see assignments, announcements, and grades.
Make It a Habit: Set a reminder to check Canvas or update your planner at the same time each day.
Use Sticky Notes or Apps: Leave reminders in your locker or use a reminder app on your phone for important deadlines.
BE PROACTIVE ABOUT ABSENCES
Life happens, but missing school doesn’t mean falling behind! By planning ahead, catching up quickly, and staying engaged, you can handle absences like a pro while keeping your learning on track.
Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be gone, let your teachers know in advance so you can get your assignments.
Follow Up: After an unexpected absence, check Canvas, talk to your teachers, and catch up on missed work right away. Don’t wait and let it pile up.
Why Attendance Matters: Every day in class builds on what you’ve already learned. Showing up helps you stay on track and reduces stress later.
SET MILESTONES AND CELEBRATE THEM
Setting goals or milestones helps you stay focused and motivated. Celebrating small wins along the way boosts your confidence and keeps you moving forward, making even big challenges feel more manageable and rewarding.
Break big goals into smaller, manageable steps.
Track your progress with a checklist or habit tracker.
Celebrate each small achievement.
Consider sharing your milestones with others or work on them with friends.
Reflect on what you’ve learned after reaching a milestone
MANAGE STRESS LIKE A BOSS
Stress is normal, but it doesn’t have to take over! Learn easy ways to stay calm, refresh your mind, and keep your body and brain healthy so you can succeed.
Brain Breaks: Study for 20–30 minutes, then pause for 5 minutes to recharge. Use your phone’s timer to stay on track and focused.
Move Your Body: Relieve stress by walking, stretching, or playing sports.
Prioritize Sleep: Get 8–10 hours of sleep each night for better focus. Put your phone away before bed to help.
Breathe Deeply: When stressed, take 5 slow, deep breaths to help calm your mind.
STUDY SMARTER, NOT HARDER
Studying can be manageable and even enjoyable! By discovering your best study style, breaking work into smaller parts, and collaborating with classmates, you’ll find learning simpler and more fun.
Discover Your Study Style: Do you learn best with pictures, listening, or hands-on practice? Use what works for you!
Memory Helpers: Having trouble remembering things? Try different strategies to make it easier!
Divide or Chunk and Conquer: Split large assignments into smaller steps, and focus on completing them one by one.
Review Notes Daily: Take a few minutes each night to go over your notes—it makes a big difference over time. Want tips for better note-taking?
Study Groups: Work with classmates! Teaching each other and sharing ideas makes studying easier and more enjoyable.
Ready to stop just "getting by"? These 6 strategies will show you how to really learn and master your classes.
Limit Distractions: Choose a quiet spot and silence your phone to stay focused.