The Weekly Update
May 17, 2026

Transitions (Seniors leaving, moving up)
Endings, Beginnings, and Everything in Between 🎓🌱
We are almost there. For seniors, this is the end of an era. For everyone else, it’s time to move up a grade.
Change is exciting, but it can also be really scary. If you are feeling "weird" right now—sad, anxious, or nostalgic—that is totally normal.
The Science: Why the Brain Hates Uncertainty 🤷
The Data: Transitions (like leaving high school or changing grades) disrupt your brain's ability to predict the future. This triggers a mild "threat" response, which feels like anxiety.
The Takeaway: You aren't "weak" for being nervous about next year. You are just human. Give yourself time to adjust.
Weekly Challenge: The "Finish Strong" List 📝
Don't just fade away—finish on purpose.
The Challenge: Write down 3 things you want to do before the last bell rings.
Example: Thank a favorite teacher.
Example: Return that library book (seriously).
Example: Say goodbye to a friend you won't see all summer.
Resource Corner: Change Support 🤝
- School Counselor: Grant Sparks (766-3410)/Christine Harrell (766-3407)
- Mental Health Support: Shannon Krenek, LCSW (766-3379) - Leave a note if Ms. Shannon is not in. She would love to meet you.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988.
Exam Schedule
What's Happening This Week? Graduation Friday!!!!
- ☀️ LOADING... 99% By Friday afternoon, you are officially on Summer Break. Give it every last bit of energy you have left!
🏁 SURVIVAL STATUS: THE FINISH LINE
The Final Boss
This is it. After 180 days of classes, dozens of quizzes, and way too many early mornings, you are at the finish line. This week isn't about how "smart" you are—it’s about how well you manage your stress and your time.
Your Game Plan for the Week:
The 10-Minute Pre-Game: Ten minutes before your exam starts, stop studying. Close your eyes, breathe, and let your brain settle. Cramming at the classroom door usually just causes panic, not better grades.
The "First Pass" Rule: When you get the test, answer all the easy questions first. This builds confidence and ensures you get the "guaranteed" points before tackling the hard stuff.
Hydrate Your Brain: Your brain is 75% water. If you're feeling a "brain fog" mid-test, take a sip of water. It’s the fastest way to wake up your neurons.
🧘The Mental Health Check
High school exams are a big deal, but they aren't everything. If a test doesn't go your way this week, remember: One grade does not define your future. Do your absolute best, but don't let a scan-tron sheet steal your peace. You are more than a GPA.