By Joshua Pegram
Class registration has begun at Atkins HS. While students start to make the decisions about what classes to take next year, it is important for them to keep a few things in mind to make sure that they make good class choices.
When choosing your classes, it is important to make sure you have chosen an even number of both block and year long classes. An uneven number of either one will result in an incomplete schedule, and you will have to pick a replacement class at the last minute or be assigned one. Make sure your schedule will work out before you become set on having a certain class. Be sure that you have a total of eight classes.
Be sure to consider what credits you need in order to graduate. Be sure to select classes that will get you all the credits you need. Be especially careful to select a class for a major that fits in. You should have a plan for what courses you will take in which years in order to complete your major.
See if any of your teachers have recommended you for a class to take next year. Under the “Class Registration” tab in Powerschool, you can see lists of all the classes you can choose in each category. If one of your teachers has recommended you for a class, an icon will appear near the name for that class. Your teachers likely know the way you learn well and their advice can be very valuable in choosing a class.
Consider trying something new. If you have an open spot for an elective that you’re not sure how to fill, then consider taking a class in something that you wouldn’t normally think of trying. You might find a new interest and gain valuable and enriching experiences. Maybe try taking a major class outside of your current major.
Be sure to challenge yourself with your classes. Do not just take the classes you think will be the easiest. People learn best when they are challenged. If you think that you are capable of taking a higher level class, then you should take it. Push yourself to be the best that you can be. Be sure to think about how the classes you take will affect your future. An honors level or AP class will look better on a college application than a standard level one. However, keep in mind the limits to your abilities. You shouldn’t take a class if you don’t think that you will be able to handle it. You likely know your own limits, so don’t overwork yourself. Challenge yourself to do the best that you can, but don’t try to do something that you know you can’t handle.