By Azana Carr

Special to the News-Herald

The school year is coming to an end for Suffolk high schools, but teachers agree it’s not time for rising seniors to completely relax.

Moving from being a junior to a senior has its difficulties, so some King’s Fork High School teachers shared their words of advice to make the best of the transition. They emphasized key points such as face-to-face communication skills, time management, work ethic and ambitions.

For the class of 2015, next year will be the last year in high school. Educators say its members should create as many memories and open doors of opportunities as they possibly can.

“Be mindful of how quickly time passes, and make sure you have a plan to stick to,” said English teacher Michael Sichock.

Before reaching their senior year, rising seniors should have learned to take responsibility for their education and a achieved a level of maturity.

“By this point, students should know what is expected of them and should be able to anticipate the challenges and adventures that await them during their senior year,” said Matthew Fike, a history teacher.

Laziness and procrastination may keep students from their goals, so he encouraged students to remember it takes time and effort to reach any ambition.

Above all, time management is the key to success. Learning how to balance academics and social opportunities is a skill students will need now, and later in life.

While senior year can be an enjoyable time of a student’s life, it is also a crucial time to start looking toward their future. Summer, as it turns out, is a great time to lay the groundwork.

“Get a head start,” Fike said. “For those taking advanced or honors courses, begin working on the summer assignment or other content relating to your senior courses.

Every student looks forward to spending some time relaxing, but agricultural teacher Cecil Avery agreed that it’s important for students not to quit learning their whole vacation.

“Read as many books as possible on as many topics as possible,” Avery said. “If you are not learning during the summer, then you are wasting valuable time.”

Creating short-term and long-term goals is important anytime, but especially during the last year of high school. Simple goals to keep in mind are getting involved in school organizations, taking responsibility for one’s own actions, studying and working toward success.

The goal, Avery said, is that “students should develop the necessary skill required to become totally independent as soon as possible.”

Although senior year will be overflowing with hard work, students are pressed to “Make it your best year ever.” Students should enjoy their last year as much as possible.

“September to June will fly by (during) your senior year,” Sichok said. “You’ll see!”

Azana Janai Carr is a 16-year-old sophomore at King’s Fork High School.