Fall brings renewed focus to academics and extracurriculars. Students reflect and set goals, balancing schoolwork and passions. Teachers see increased productivity as students grow more comfortable in class.
By Chloe Falcon
During our childhood years, many of us eagerly anticipated the arrival of fall. The transition from warm weather to cooler temperatures, passing days with ease, and introducing pumpkin spice have all been enjoyable for us.
With the arrival of fall, the change in the seasons also marks a shift in focus from relaxation to education, as students get focused not just on academics but also on getting comfortable in their classroom environments.
Ms. Johnson, who is a Word History teacher at Redwood, witnessed a change in her students as they became more comfortable in her classroom.
When asked if she believed that her students have become more productive she says, “Yes, I do think that students have become a lot more productive. I think in my opinion, just with students coming back from COVID and getting back into the swing of normal classes, students are becoming more productive.
Beyond academics, fall also marks the beginning of various activities. Students are setting up clubs, sports teams, and art programs, adding another layer of excitement to the new school year.
Rozalia Longbottom ‘27 is in the fall play and wants to try out for the musical. She says, “Right now, I’m in the fall play and my main goal is to do well in school so that I can keep my role in the play. I also want to audition for the musical, and if I get in, I’ll keep focusing on my grades so I can keep performing.”
Longbottom’s excitement about the fall play and musical emphasizes the importance of balancing school work and passion for the stage.
As summer ends and fall begins, students shift their focus to academic goals. Reflection on past performance is common as they prepare for the next grading period.
Mr. Rojas who is a Biology teacher here at RHS shares how students are focusing on their academic goals and performance.
Rojas says, “There’s, still in that summer mentality now, now that we’re in fall, the weather is cooling down, they’re kind of either getting tired of getting tired of school work or like buckling down and seeing how first grading period went and if they want to continue down that path or be, take, take a new one and those students now need a little bit more help.”
Additionally, this transition is an excellent time for students to set academic goals for themselves. Many take the opportunity to plan their study routines, seek help when needed, and strive for academic achievements.
Lauren Korsgaden ‘26 vocalizes how she finds a way in a world filled with distractions and daily challenges while maintaining motivation throughout the school year. She says, “To stay motivated, I remind myself that the tough times will eventually pass, and I need to put in the hard work. And if I want to continue participating in extracurricular activities, I must maintain good grades.”
Looking forward to the upcoming school year, students are filled with a newfound sense of confidence and eagerness. The challenges and experiences of the previous academic year have not only influenced their academic abilities but also helped shape their character.
Lauren Korsgaden ‘26 says, “Since the beginning of freshman year, I have changed.”
Chloe Falcon
Chloe is a class of '26 enthusiasts who loves drama and is a journalist for the Redwood Gigantea.
Email: chloe.fa0965@vusd.us
Tags: chloe falcon, clubs & lifestyles, redwood high school, redwood journalism
