By Jerry Reid

Today is the end of the third quarter, and most students will again start worrying about their grades. This past quarter is familiarly referred to as the the third quarter slump. There is no really honest reason for it except, perhaps, after working so diligently the first semester, students must slacken up a bit the next quarter. What a reason! It's no use trying to think of good excuses for poor grades. It is better to admit that students become lazy after the first semester and they do not work as hard for their grades.

It is easier to relax and make excuses, but it is much more profitable to work a little harder and not have to worry about what parents will say when they see poor grades. A small amount of effort on school work every day saves a tremendous amount of worry at the end of the quarter. It is surprising how a small hit of time spent on studying will help to make schoolwork easier to understand. After all, the future depends on how one takes advantage of the opportunities afforded in high school.

It is better to work hard now and enjoy the benefits later than to relax now and be forced to accept the consequences which are results of little or no effort for a good future.