From the Principal: Tips for Ninth Graders

By Dr. Angela Ward, interim principal, Champaign Central High School

Starting high school can be both exciting and overwhelming. After all, it is probably one of the most memorable milestones of your teenage years. I’ve spent more than 30 years in education, and I’ve watched thousands of students navigate the high school experience. For some, it is a walk in the park. For others, it is more like a game of trial and error.

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I would like to share a few suggestions to help future ninth graders successfully navigate this uncharted territory. Of course, it’s been a long time since I attended high school myself. Yet, there are some things that still ring true today. Here they are:

High school grades are like dollars in the bank. Every class you pass credits your account. Any class you fail is like subtracting dollars, plus a penalty fee. At the end of four years, you must have 22 credits — or 22 dollars in the bank to graduate on time. Therefore, take advantage of all available support to pass your classes the first time around, because four years go by fast and your GPA reflects your wealth.
High school is the time to get connected. Building connections is your first real networking experience. By joining teams or clubs, volunteering, or simply collaborating with peers, you will not only expand your network but also build your resume and broaden your views on life. Remember, colleges and professional corporations often seek candidates who understand how to work with others. If you want to put your application at the top of the pile, showcase your ability to collaborate.
High school is the time to challenge yourself! There are a ton of new class offerings in high school. Do not shy away from rigorous or enriching opportunities. Dual credit and Advanced Placement courses not only look good on your transcripts; they also stretch your depth of knowledge and prepare you for college and career opportunities. Do not be afraid. Try them!
High school is the time to build relationships. Studying is an important part of high school, and teachers are there to help. Get to know your teachers. Stay after school if you do not understand a subject. Do not be embarrassed to ask for help. Some of the most successful people are where they are today because they understand how to build relationships and access important resources.
High school is the time to practice balance! Once you have done studying, it is important to make time to enjoy life. Join sports. Take in a play or attend games. Dance at school parties or dance across your living room — whatever brings you joy! Remember, this is your time, and you deserve to have fun making memories and building friendships that will last a lifetime.

For all the parents who may also be new to this journey, I would like to offer a few suggestions:

Ask your student, “How was your day?” I remember asking my daughter this question 27 years ago. Her response helped me realize just how much parents miss during those 8-12 hours we are away from our children.
Go for a Sunday drive. This allows time for a break from cell phones, televisions, video games, and all the noise that distracts students during important developmental periods. It also allows us to maintain a real bond with our children.
Know your students’ path and plan. All students will have a four-year plan within the SchooLinks platform that parents can access. Log in, discover their dreams, and pour into them. Oftentimes, you will be their best cheerleader, and they need you during these formative years.

Regardless of whether you are a student or a parent, remember that you have everything you need to succeed, and we are here to help every step of the way!

Dr. Angela Ward is the interim principal at Champaign Central High School. She began her time in Unit 4 in 1995 as a literature teacher at Columbia Alternative High School. She later served as dean of students and assistant principal at Franklin Middle School before becoming the school’s principal. Since 2011, Ward has served as assistant superintendent for equity and achievement, and later assistant superintendent for equity and community engagement. She earned her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, administrative endorsement, certificate of advanced studies, and doctorate from the University of Illinois.