By: Melanie Canales, Nevada State High School Class of 2020
Nevada State High School is a tuition-free public charter school. At this state-funded high school, juniors and seniors take real college courses with real college professors on real college campuses in Nevada. In response to Governor Sisolak’s order for all schools to close, NSHS went 100% virtual on March 16th. NSHS is still delivering a real college experience by offering daily supports through virtual tutoring, zoom sessions, virtual open houses and virtual social point opportunities!
Take advantage of this time to reflect, learn, and improve. Here are four tips to stay productive at home:
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Physically and mentally better yourself – you can exercise, eat healthy meals, clean your room, relax, and so much more. Maintain a positive attitude throughout the day to stay focused and productive. Social distancing can be lonely so continue being present and stay engaged with your family and friends. Every weekend I chat with all my cousins through Zoom to stay in contact and support each other through this time. NSHS staff have made it a priority to stay in contact with their students. I’ve been getting one-on-one virtual interactions with NSHS staff if I have any questions or when I need help. It’s really important to have that virtual interaction with one another during this transition. You could start a group chat, Zoom, or a Houseparty video chat to connect with your loved ones.
Create a Space Dedicated to Work and Study
Build a dedicated workspace to focus on work and your academics. Choose a specific work spot as a “home office” whether it is in a room or living area. I would avoid your bed or the kitchen table as a common place to work and study as it could be distracting with the thought of wanting to sleep or eat. Since attending Nevada State High School, I have taken several online classes which taught me how to stay focused and work from home. Allowing me to adjust quickly during this virtual transition. I created my designated work space in my dining room where I added everything I needed to be successful like my books, notebook, and computer. Be productive and work hard!
Eliminate Distractions
Turn off your phone and go to a place where you will not be distracted by texts, social media, and any other unnecessary distractions. Clear all distractions to solely focus on work and/or academics. Let your family know where you plan on studying so that they are aware. It is extremely hard to stay focused for a long period of time so set limit on how long you plan to study. The virtual supports provided by NSHS have made it easier to eliminate distractions by providing great social point and volunteering opportunities to stay occupied and on track academically. I have designated time every day where I log on to Moodle – to check new announcements, opportunities, and grades to stay focused!
Schedule Your Day
Have a routine! Set a schedule for when you plan to work, study, and relax. You could create a to-do list, an everyday routine, set alarms and so much more to schedule your day. The personal, academic, and social skills I learned at Nevada State High School have prepared me to balance my priorities successfully. So, every day when I wake up I make a list of things I need done by the end of the day. This way I have a clear idea on how I can prioritize my day to get everything done on time personally, socially, and academically. Stay persistent and finish this school year strong.
Stay positive, stay safe, and stay home for Nevada!
For more info or if you are interested in working towards your college degree virtually and in-person visit https://earlycollegenv.com/