Introducing Student Prep and Pony Pursuits

This school year, we are introducing two structured opportunities designed to support academic success, student well-being, personal growth, and college and career readiness: Student Prep and Pony Pursuits.

Student Prep

Student Prep is a structured academic period that gives every student consistent time during the school day to study, organize, complete work, and ask for help. It was developed in response to concerns about academic workload, student stress, and limited time to catch up.

During Student Prep, students may:

• Complete homework, missing work, or revisions
• Study for tests and work on long-term projects
• Check grades and plan upcoming assignments
• Receive academic help or complete make-up work

Students will stay with their 2nd hour teacher. They are expected to arrive prepared, work productively, use technology appropriately, and remain in their assigned area unless given permission to leave. Student Prep is for all students—not only those who are struggling. Students who are caught up may study, read, and complete enrichment activities.

Pony Pursuits

Pony Pursuits is a required block at the end of the school day that allows students to choose meaningful activities in three areas:

• Community Building and Leadership: Clubs, committees, leadership groups, and cultural organizations
• Academic Connection and Enrichment: Academic support centers, testing, certifications, PSEO support, and enrichment opportunities
• College and Career Exploration: Career workshops, SchooLinks activities, college visits, employment support, internships, volunteerism, and guest speakers

Students will select their Pony Pursuits activities through SchooLinks approximately once each month, with flexibility to make changes as academic needs, interests, or new opportunities arise. Students are expected to report to their selected location, participate actively, follow staff directions, and use the time purposefully.

Together, Student Prep and Pony Pursuits provide students with greater access to academic support, leadership opportunities, enrichment, and future planning during the school day. Our goal is to help students become more organized, independent, connected, and prepared for life after high school.

More information about schedules, expectations, and registration will be shared during their 2nd period classes.

Sincerely,

Sydney Piras and Rachel Steil, Coordinators