Students in highschool have jobs because they need money to support themselves, families, siblings, and may also be trying to get a car. I have a job and it’s very exhausting. Many people without jobs always like to say that it’s not that hard or tell me to not complain. Other students and teachers always see a student’s personality and life on the outside, but never take time to learn what’s happening on the inside before saying something.
After talking with many students, I have heard many things in common between them. Some have been told by friends that having a job isn’t hard or they complain too much from being tired or sick.
“It’s just work, it can ever be that hard,” reflects Kevin Thomas, 11.
“I take advisory and also stay up late at night to do all my work,” states Angleo Bennett, 10. I personally have been told by many people that I shouldn’t complain about being tired but it’s always by the people who don’t have a job. No one really understands the feeling until they get one themselves. I used to think the same and I’m now tired everyday. Some students take almost all honors or AP classes, and have said they use their breaks at work to do all their homework or stay up all night. I feel like so many teachers pile work and expect students to do everything on time, but instead, maybe they should take time talking to students and ask what’s happening that’s causing them to fall behind.
“During my breaks, I bring my school stuff to work so I can do my homework to help from falling behind,” remarks Thomas.
“The majority of students who work either take time off work or find time after to hang out with friends. I normally just hang out with my friends after work, or try to find days off,” expresses Maggie Minks, 11.
Students can be struggling mentally or physically, or even have family issues where they have to help take care of their family almost all night. I myself personally have had friends that I’ve known during my sophomore year that fell behind because they were working while taking care of their little siblings since no one else could. I think the main idea and goal is to have teachers understand to never underestimate a student if they are failing their class because they haven’t had the time to ask what’s wrong. Also, teachers should create a good bond with their students and make them feel safe while helping students feel comfortable with coming up to them to talk about their school and personal life. Students should also be able to feel safe enough to go up to their teachers and ask for extra help or extensions.
