Reflection, not in the mirror :)

This year has already been one of my best experiences in school. I've always gotten higher than B-'s, and have taken home straight A's more than once. I've never been a "bad" student. But I will tell you that I have had times where i haven't been the greatest learner. I was gifted and cursed with intelligence, that always led to high expectations and even higher anxiety. There were times where what was expected of me was so high, that I ended up doing worse for that reason. I came to this school thinking that I would be expected of even more, and was already stressing out. I can't think of an instance where I was more wrong! I have enjoyed my time so much here, in only two months I have found a place I actually belong.

I have fun in class, and learn. My teachers know my names. And I try so hard. It is in my nature. I have branched out to learn so many different things. I really enjoy my humanities class, and Spanish. Language is already something very intriguing to me, and Mr. Gaines's class is so entertaining. It has its boring times, but it IS school. There will always be times in life when I have to do things I don't want to. Mr. Ross's class is great. I have never enjoyed English or History this much. I feel like I am doing very well in the class, but beyond a letter grade, I love it. I love what I learn.

As a child, I was very inquisitive and absolutely adored reading and learning. Middle school had taught me to hide some of these things, and that you have to struggle and try to stand out in a class with 50 other people. In middle school, I stopped all reading for enjoyment. I didn't even completely read the required books. Sure, I'm a bit ashamed, but more sad. It felt like a part of me had crumbled, and school became something to dread and try to survive socially. I stopped asking questions. I stopped doing things I truly loved, and really started to wonder what I was even doing with my life. In Mr.Ross's class this year, I have read more books than I did all throughout middle school. Which would be 5 books. I ask questions. I feel content with my work. I truly love this school. I believe I have earned a 100/100. I'm not concieted, I'm not full of myself, and I don't think I'm a "teachers pet". I gave myself a 100 because I really try.

I love learning, and having fun while doing that. I mean, just in these two months, I have started to find myself even more. To talk, love, and laugh more. And it's school! How crazy is that! This school isn't all sunshine and flowers though, i will admit I am struggling in math. It isn't my grade that is struggling, I have a 92%. For past years in middle school, I have had a less than fun math experience. I didn't enjoy it much at all. I came thinking I would have a similar experience, and I was proven wrong. I am having troubles, though. I do not feel like I am fully utilizing my talents or abilities in math class. I am being taken advantage of by being the "smart person" in my group, and not getting much of either respect or work I can truly be proud of. I have been extremely tense and stressed out after this class, and have left multiple times crying. I shoudln't have to cry at school, it is un-necessary and embarassing to me. Overall, I am enjoying school quite alot. There are some things I would change if I could, but I feel like I give my 100% best every day and will continue to.

Y Katherine.