Dubiski Counselor Connection

Using Time Management Strategies to Stay Balanced

December can feel exciting but also overwhelming. With final exams approaching and the holidays coming up, it’s normal to feel stressed or even stretched thin. Remember that taking care of your mental health is just as important as studying or preparing for break. If you’re feeling anxious or pressured, remember to talk to a trusted adult. Taking a quick one minute time-out for you to breathe deeply can also help you to ease tension. Pairing these mindfulness strategies with time management strategies will increase your productivity:

Use a planner, your phone or iPad: Schedule your tasks and deadlines.
Prioritize tasks: Focus on important tasks first.
Time blocking: Allocate specific times for tasks.
Eliminate distractions: Minimize interruptions.
Take breaks: Rest to maintain productivity.
Learn to say no: Avoid overcommitting.

This month, take control of your stress by staying organized and intentional with your time. Choose one time-management app from the list below and commit to using it throughout December. Your chosen app will help you stay productive, balanced, and less overwhelmed during this busy season. Small daily habits can make a big difference. Let’s finish the year strong and stress-free!

December 5:

TSIA2 Testing
Junior Ring Ceremony Make-up (Atrium, During All Lunches)

December 8-12:

Inclusive Schools Week

December 9:

EOC Retesting (ENG I & US HIST)

December 10:

EOC Retesting (ENG II & ALG I)
Senior Panoramic Picture

December 11:

EOC Retesting (BIO)

December 12:

EOC Retesting Make-ups

December 16-18

Semester Exams

December 18:

Last day for seniors to pay for the ACT school day in March

December 19-January 5:

WINTER BREAK

Join us as we celebrate National Inclusive Schools Week from December 8–12, with this year’s theme: “Children First.” This theme reminds us that every decision and action in our school community should prioritize the well-being, growth, and inclusion of every student. Students and families can support inclusivity through everyday acts of kindness: offering a friendly word, including others in conversations or group activities, listening with understanding, or helping someone who may need extra support. Together, we can create a culture where all learners feel valued, respected, and included.

If you’re interested in taking the TSIA2 Test on one of our upcoming testing dates, space is limited—only 30 slots are available! Slots will be filled first come, first served based on students who submit all required documentation by the deadline.

Important Update: Documentation MUST be submitted the Monday before your scheduled TSIA2 testing day by 4:30 pm, in order to be added to the testing roster.

✅ The next TSIA2 testing date will be on December 5th. The deadline to submit documents for registration - December 1st by 4:30 pm.

To be eligible to take the TSIA2, you must complete all required steps: [click the link below].

Don’t wait—complete your steps early to secure your spot and take the next step toward your college and career goals! 🚀

📝 How to Register and Prepare for the TSIA2

As we approach the winter break, we want to take a moment to celebrate the season with all of you. Whether you observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or any other special tradition, we wish you a Happy Holiday filled with joy, connection, and celebration. We wish you all a joyous holiday spent with family and friends. May you find plenty of time to relax, recharge, and enjoy this well-deserved break.