In a bustling high school environment where the weight of tests, homework, and approaching deadlines often feel overwhelming, it can be hard for students to stay on track. It is a common opinion that it is just the students’ responsibility to keep themselves motivated, but is there anything the teachers can do to prevent burnout?

Sophomore Abigail Ewing prefers teachers that are engaged in their subject. “I feel frustrated when teachers don’t teach; I feel supported when my teachers help and indulge in my learning.”

Sophomore Marie Suteau likes direct teachers. “It is annoying when teachers don’t get straight to the point.”

We all know that school work can be a lot and is a main factor of stress for many students, including sophomore Ava Cochran. “I want teachers to not give so much work at once,” she said, “so that it is less stressful to get all of my work turned in.”

Current assistant principle and past science teacher Joey Hodge has his own way of keeping students motivated. “I would try and make them realize what their future looks like,” Hodge said. “I would not only connect it to academics but to hard work and their future as a human being.”

Sophomore Kyndall Cantebury would like teachers to be more patient. “I hate when teachers get mad super easily.”

For many students, the classroom could be a more encouraging space if teachers were patient, engaged, direct, and overall happy to do their job.