A Practical Guide to Thriving Academically

Helping Your Student Succeed at The Governor’s Academy

As a parent, you want to see your child succeed, and a key part of that is empowering them to navigate a new academic environment. At Govs, success isn't just about grades; it’s about learning how to be an active participant in their own education and discovering learning strategies that work best for them. While the Student Handbook covers the formal path to graduation, there's also a "hidden curriculum" of self-advocacy and resourcefulness that makes all the difference. Here’s a guide to helping your student tap into everything Govs has to offer.

Encourage Them to Advocate for Themselves
One of the most valuable lessons your child will learn at Govs is how to speak up for their own needs. Remind them that it's okay—and even expected—to seek help. The school’s Learning Center, located in the Pescosolido Library, is staffed throughout the day and evening, providing a great space for homework help, study skills, test prep, and essay writing support. Frame this as a proactive step your student can take, rather than waiting until they're falling behind.

Similarly, emphasize the importance of communicating directly with their teachers. Teachers at Governor’s are passionate about their subjects and committed to helping students outside of class. Encourage your child to take the initiative to schedule extra help sessions or ask questions about a difficult concept. The school’s academic schedule even includes dedicated "X-blocks" for this exact purpose, making it a built-in opportunity for them to advocate for their own learning. Peer tutors and dorm proctors are here to help as well, so encourage your child to reach out early and often.

Remind Them About the Importance of Relationships
The relationships your child builds at Governor’s will be some of their most valuable assets. Their advisory group is a core part of this. These weekly meetings are a chance for your student to build a mentoring relationship with a trusted faculty member and peers. This is a perfect opportunity for them to discuss challenges, celebrate successes, and strategize together.

You can also suggest they get help from librarians on research and citations. These are vital skills for academic writing and will serve them well beyond their time at Govs. Encourage your child to get to know their teachers beyond the classroom. A teacher who sees your student's effort and genuine curiosity can become a powerful advocate for them. In turn, teach your child to be a good collaborator with their peers. Study groups and note-sharing are not only a great way to learn but also help build a supportive community. When assignments are returned, encourage your student to seek feedback on how to improve, rather than just focusing on the grade. This shows they are invested in their learning and willing to engage in a dialogue about their progress.

Help Them Build Good Habits
Success at Governors is also about developing strong personal habits. Encourage them to be an active participant in class by coming to class prepared, asking questions, and taking good notes. 

Time management is one of the most important (and often most difficult) skills students will learn here. Help them find "hidden" chunks of time during the school day, before and after dinner, and on weekends to get ahead. You will see students working together in the dining room or "locking in" at one of the study carrels in the Silent Study area of the library to lighten their workload during the week.

Ultimately, your support and encouragement can empower your student to take ownership of their education. By helping them understand these key areas, you'll be giving them the tools they need to not only succeed academically but to truly thrive at Govs and beyond.

Author: Brigitta Allen, Director of the Learning Center