Back-to-School Reminders: Strategies for Getting a Jump on the Academic Year
- Jason Rossi
- Sep 6
- 3 min read
The start of a new school year is more than just sharpened pencils and fresh notebooks—it’s a chance to set the stage for success. At Tutored by the Best, we know that a strong start can make all the difference in how students feel and perform throughout the year. Whether your child is entering middle school, high school, or preparing for college-level courses, these strategies will help them begin the year with confidence and focus.
1. Get Organized Early
A cluttered backpack or scattered notes can quickly lead to missed assignments and unnecessary stress. Encourage your student to:
Use a planner (digital or paper) to track assignments, tests, and projects.
Set up subject-specific folders for handouts and digital files.
Develop a simple daily routine of reviewing upcoming tasks.
2. The most important back-to-school reminder: Read (and re-read) the Syllabus Carefully
One of the most overlooked tools for student success is the course syllabus. Teachers and professors outline grading policies, major assignments, and exam dates right at the start. By reading (and re-reading) the syllabus, students can:
Spot upcoming deadlines weeks in advance.
Identify how grades are weighted and where to focus energy.
Avoid “surprise” assignments by being proactive.
3. Focus on the Low-Hanging Fruit
It’s easy to think only big exams matter, but many classes award valuable points for participation and homework completion. These “low-hanging fruit” opportunities can help a student:
Keep grades steady even if a test doesn’t go perfectly.
Build strong daily habits.
Show teachers they’re engaged and committed.
4. Set Academic Goals
Instead of vague resolutions like “do better in Spanish,” help your student set clear, measurable goals:
“I will learn and apply 10 new Spanish vocabulary words each week.”
“I will review my Spanish notes for 15 minutes every evening.”
“I will aim for an 85% or higher on all quizzes.”
5. Read the Textbook (Even When It’s Not Assigned)
Another commonly skipped step is keeping up with the textbook. Even if daily homework doesn’t require it, teachers often pull test questions straight from the text. By reviewing the textbook regularly, students can:
Stay familiar with material that may not have been emphasized in class.
Reinforce classroom learning with structured explanations.
Enter quizzes and exams better prepared than peers who only skim lecture notes.
6. Build Strong Study Habits
Students often wait until the night before a test to review. Encourage daily study habits instead:
Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused study, 5-minute break).
Summarize class notes at the end of each day.
Practice active recall and self-quizzing instead of just re-reading notes.
7. Balance Work and Wellness
Academic success is closely tied to overall well-being. Encourage:
Consistent sleep (at least 8 hours for most students).
Nutritious snacks to fuel concentration.
Time for physical activity and hobbies.
8. Create a Positive Learning Environment
Set up a distraction-free study space at home. A quiet corner, good lighting, and minimal interruptions can dramatically improve focus and productivity. (Put down the cell phone!)
Final Thought
The best way to get a jump on the academic year is to combine preparation with consistency. With the right habits, goals, and support system, students can thrive—not just survive—throughout the school year.
At Tutored by the Best, we specialize in helping students gain confidence and master subjects like Spanish, test prep, and beyond. This school year, give your child the tools they need to excel from day one.
👉 Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule your first tutoring session and make this year your best yet!
And here's a fun video of our 8 tips that offer back-to-school reminders for your students to stay on track during the school year.
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