Get into the Groove… No, Not the Madonna Song… Get into the School Groove!

By Jamie and Jenna Fuschi '27

As we know, it is now September and school is back in full swing. Getting back into a new school year can be difficult. Some of us start preparing weeks in advance, while others do everything at the last minute.

According to U.S. News, there are approximately 1,146 students and 83 staff members at Wethersfield High School, and we know all of them aren’t on the same page.

For some students, getting back into the groove is like second nature. Ariana LaPlant, a senior at WHS, explains how she personally manages the transition. "In preparation for the new school year, I like to get my summer work done immediately. After that, I buy all my supplies in July so I have a head start and get back on track." LaPlant’s perspective shows getting ready earlier can save a ton of time … and stress!

Although the start of the school year can feel like stepping into a ring of fire, senior Elijesa Avdimetaj highlights that there are options and you don’t need to bury yourself with work right off the bat. Avdimetaj says, "I definitely like to start off a little slower, especially during senior year. There’s a lot of things coming right at me. I try not to go right into academics—having that tower over me can be a lot."

Instead of asking another WHS student how they get back into the school year, we wanted to ask social studies teacher and cross-country coach Stephen Carr for his advice, since he deals with students firsthand.

"Sometimes transitions can be hard, but the payoff is great. Get involved, talk to your friends, get into a rhythm—it'll all be okay," says Carr. "There's a lot to gain with uncertainty. Seek discomfort." Carr's advice shows that something as small as joining a new club or talking to a friend can be the kickstart to getting back into the swing of things.

Transitioning into a new school year is not an easy process for anyone, but with the right mindset, people, and plan, students can gain that momentum back that they once had. Whether you start preparing weeks in advance or start the year off slow to soak in the memories, no one is alone; getting back into the groove can start with one small change.

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