My head is pounding, my hand hurts from writing so much, and my eyes are only half open. It’s 10:30pm, and I have to wake up at 6am for school in the morning. Yet, I still have a comparative essay to write on Sula and the Metamorphosis, my fifty Algebra II problems, and a physics test to study for. In this situation, “stress” is an understatement. 

How do you manage all of your academic work, sports, jobs, and other extracurriculars all by yourself? Well, there is good news, you don’t have to handle it by yourself because that is what your teachers are for!  At Saint Stephen’s, teachers are here to help and encourage you, so students should use these valuable resources as much as they can.    

Being a student is challenging in and of itself, however for many, it’s not the only responsibility they take on. Most students, especially underclassmen, don’t understand that teachers are there to help. When a student is struggling or falling behind in a class, the teacher is there to help students. Whether they need to catch up or better understand the material, they are there to get them back on track for success. 

Science teacher Mr. Carlson said, “I think sometimes it’s not obvious when we start the year that teachers are rooting for students. At times I think that students think that their questions are ‘stupid,’ but the reality is we want to address those questions now so they know the answer in the future.’’

Carlson added,“Teachers want to help so don’t let your worries get in the way of getting the help you need”

Teachers here at SSES care to help students. It is your teacher’s job to help you and believe it or not, they like their job. With the smaller class sizes here at SSES, there is a feeling of unity among the class and the teachers. 

Upper school math teacher Mr. Cotton said, “There is a much closer student-teacher relationship at Saint Stephens. I taught at a public school for two years prior to teaching here and it is very different,” 

If students take enough time to plan and advocate for themselves by talking to their teachers, it allows them to be prepared and not become overwhelmed. 

Dr. Juengling advises the student-athletes that “Pre-planning means planning ahead for known absences or sports games. Successful student-athletes complete their homework before the big game, using their study hall and time wisely.”