According to the Department of Education, graduation rates have been the highest they’ve ever been in the last few years. The dropout rate has also fallen to a record low of 5.8%.

However, the American Psychological Association reported that 81% of teens felt more intense stress throughout the COVID-19 pandemic this year. 

The biggest factor found was due to homework and/or school work. Other factors included lack of support or social interaction. 

This study, however, did not expand on the responsibilities that students have outside of school. This includes jobs, internships, extracurriculars, and much more that may cause stress to a student’s life. 

Many WJPS students have responsibilities outside of school which could affect their performance in school. 

WJPS senior, Lianna Zuvich, said “I babysit after school so it’s hard to get out of school and then go to another place.”

WJPS senior, Daniela Santamaria, said “I have a job and do activism activities so I gain knowledge about social issues, it affects how outspoken I am and how much I can give my knowledge to others.”

While activities outside of school give you real-world experience, students are ultimately faced with the dilemma of balancing school and their own responsibilities.