Redwood Students React to the End of Grading Period 1

Students reflect on the challenges, growth, and motivation as the first chapter of the semester comes to a close. From struggles with time management to moments of success, students share honest reflections on what they’ve learned and how they are preparing to move forward with stronger habits.

By: Leslie Nunez

On September 19th, the first grading period of this year’s semester has come to an end. Students at Redwood High School all finished this marking period in different ways, with some students stronger than others.

There’s no doubt that the final minutes of a marking period can cause students to stress.

For others, they might feel the need to procrastinate until the last minute because it seems to be their only option.

How students approach their schoolwork throughout the grading period often shapes their outcomes, whether through consistent effort or a last-minute catch-up.

Vanessa Casteneda, ’27, said “This marking period went by fast, but I’m proud of how it ended. My grades are pretty good, but there were some problems along the way.”

“I didn’t really struggle with a subject, it was mostly just hard to keep up with the work,” said Casteneda. “But it did start to get easier when I asked for help from my teachers and classmates.”

She says “I learned a lot these past few weeks, so I think I’m ready for the next marking period.”

Even though Casteneda hit a few obstacles along the way, she was able to finish off the marking period strong. Saying that she has, “learned a lot these past few weeks, so [she thinks she is] ready for the next marking period.”

Liset Cruz Alegria, ’27, says “Grading period 1 wasn’t hard for me, but I did struggle a bit towards the end. This grading period, I missed school frequently, so my homework would start to pile up, making it challenging to catch up with the rest of my class.”

One of the subjects that Alegria struggled with the most was math, she says “I had to miss a few days, and when I returned, they had already moved on to something else. So I was just very lost and confused. I think the next grading period will be good.”

Although Alegria dealt with some struggle this marking period, she learned new strategies to help her accomplish new goals during the next grading period.

As the first grading period came to an end, students at Redwood High School reflect not only on grades but on the lessons they’ve learned about time management, perseverance, and seeking support.

While some faced challenges, many are entering the next marking period with a clearer understanding of what works for them and a renewed sense of motivation.

With new goals in mind, Redwood students are ready to take on the rest of the semester.

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