Grades. They can make students feel like they’re on top of the world or make them feel down in the dumps. Have you ever felt like you don’t belong somewhere because of your grades? Well, you’re not alone! I know that many people, including myself, felt like grades determine if you are smart or not, but they don’t.
Some students might feel like they are the only ones who receives that 65 on the unit test in math, while everyone at their table earns 90s, and that can really take a toll on mental health.
Audrina Acasta is a junior at Carolina Forest High School. She is a part of the Anchor Club, and she was asked if she ever felt like she wasn’t giving her all at school because of her grades.
Acosta stated, “I do sometimes feel like that because my parents think that grades are very important, and so do I, but sometimes it’s really hard on me even though I am trying my best.”
It’s totally normal to feel that way; I can say that I do. However, even though students aren’t totally good at math, some other students might be better in different subjects and/or hobbies.
Teachers also understand their students! We sometimes forget that they were also high school students at one point. They know what students are going through each day.
Sarah Dowaliby, who is an ELA teacher from A House, has been teaching for five years.
Dowaliby stated, “I feel like it is very important for teachers to understand that sometimes students aren’t great at certain things and shouldn’t make their students feel bad about grades.”
I now understand that people’s feelings about grades are often based on others opinion’s about the importance of having good grades.
According to northhowler.com, there is evidence that documents grades can have negative effects: “Grades have been linked to higher levels of stress, anxiety, academic motivation, and feelings of trust between the teacher and student.”
Although I think that students should try hard to do their personal best in school, sometimes students are trying their hardest and just not getting good grades. Often the students also are really hard on themselves because they are comparing themselves to other students who are getting better grades.
In the end, everyone is worthy of anything and should not be discriminated against for their grades. Although good grades are needed to help students be successful, they should not determine the person you are.
{Photo: Google}
