A Cure to Senioritis and the Third Quarter Slump

Watauga High School class of 2025 celebrate their last official gathering at Graduation. “It can be tempting for seniors to think, ‘I’ve been accepted to college, so I’m all set,’’ said Watauga’s Next Step Advisor Courtney Gragg, “but maintaining strong academic performance in the spring semester is still very important.” Photo Credit: Watauga Yearbook

Anna Norris, Editor-In-Chief of The Powderhorn

For many Watauga High School Seniors, the third quarter brings a multitude of overwhelming emotions. College acceptance letters begin to roll in, graduation dates seem to be almost in reach, and plans for next fall solidify. Seniors who have spent countless hours poring over college applications, contemplating future career paths, and considering trade opportunities are finally able to exhale a sigh of relief. However, many students fall into a state of “senioritis”, allowing their grades to slip, their academic drive to plummet, and a strong desire to skip straight to graduation and their plans. Fortunately, “senioritis” is curable, and experienced and talented WHS faculty are here with your fix. 

“As a senior, hopefully you have signed up for classes that spark your interest and that you care about,” said Watauga High School History teacher Jamie Wilson. “Think back to last year, and remember why you signed up for those classes in the first place. Remember that these are the teachers and the classmates who will help you close out your time in high school.  Make the most of the opportunities you have in front of you.”

As Watauga High School makes the successful transition from fall semester exams to the spring semester, even seniors who have attended WHS for their entire high school career are presented with the opportunity to take a new and interesting class. By senior year, most students at WHS are enrolled in courses that they are genuinely interested in and that align with their preferred academic rigor. 

“Students can be excited about their new classes and their last semester of high school by shifting their mindset to see this time as both a fresh start and a meaningful finish,” said Watauga High School’s Next Step Advisor Courtney Gragg. “New classes offer opportunities to explore subjects they may not have tried before, connect with new teachers, and challenge themselves academically one last time.”

Although a brand new course can seem intimidating in a senior’s last semester of high school, taking on a challenge academically can remind seniors of the grit and determination they have shown throughout classes at WHS and exemplify how hard they have worked to get where they are now.

“I like to tell students that sometimes, the habits they form in their last semester 'carry over’ to their first year in college, especially since, in college, they don't have parents constantly overseeing them,” said Randy Combs, history teacher. “They MUST be personally responsible and do the things they have to do.”

Many seniors misinterpret acceptance letters from their preferred universities as an opportunity to slack off in their classes, without realizing that universities must see a final transcript from the second semester when determining if a student’s acceptance must be reconsidered. 

“Finish strong,” said Combs. “So many of my students have worked hard their entire academic careers - 12 years.  Don't throw all of that away at the very end!”

With only one remaining semester for Watauga’s 2026 graduates, faculty encourage students to enjoy the last few months of a closing chapter and give back to the community as much as possible. 

“Look for places to volunteer or try to find a cause you care about,” said Wilson. “North Carolina has primary elections in March, as well.  If you will be 18 years old before the general election date---November 3, 2026--you are eligible to vote in the primary.  Students can volunteer on campaigns or volunteer to work at election sites if they want to get involved.”

Even when a student has committed to exciting next-step plans, their impact and involvement in Watauga County does not waver. Seniors are expected to strive with integrity in and out of the classrooms of Watauga High School through volunteering, connecting with local nonprofits, and spending time with residents. 

“There are many opportunities available, such as helping at the Watauga Humane Society, supporting the Hunger and Health Coalition, volunteering with FARM Cafe, or working with other local nonprofits and service groups,” said Gragg. “Getting involved allows seniors to give back to the community that has supported them throughout their high school years while also building meaningful connections and gaining valuable life experience.”

Although there are seniors who may be counting down the days until graduation, Watauga High School is hosting numerous events to look forward to throughout the spring semester, and many trusted faculty members hope students will slow down and make the most of their last semester. 

“This is hard for high school students to accept, but this is a great time in your life,” said Combs.  “Prom, graduation, friends, and yes, even classes - it will go fast!  Remember the Andy quote from ‘The Office’ - you are in the ‘good old days’ now.”