Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School has started a study group that happens every Tuesday and Thursday during lunchtime for students who may need extra help in their classes. Students volunteer their time to help the other students who attend the study group.
Over 20 students volunteered their time to help others along with a teacher who is there for the extra help.
“It seemed like there is a lot of desire amongst students and parents to increase the academics of the community,” Vice Principal Robert MacDonald mentioned.
PSO is brainstorming and trying to come up with different ideas for how they can help students feel stronger academically, bring more kids together to help each other and increase awareness that some students are not getting the help that they need.
“When kids have a chance to learn from their peers it's often really productive. Some kids might feel intimidated by asking a teacher so if they can sit down and ask a student that they may know they find it more approachable, and it builds bonds throughout grades,” MacDonald explained.
Some students such as Kim Baechmann did not know about the study group that was going on, however now she knows and will drop in whenever she needs extra help.
Mackenzie Shepheard doesn’t attend the study group because she finds that she gets distracted too easily and doesn’t have the motivation when around her peers, so she prefers to study at home or alone.
She, along with other students, feels embarrassed to get help, especially from other students who might also be younger than them. It’s important to know that it doesn’t matter if someone is older or younger than you, if they are willing to volunteer their time to help you, you always need to take that opportunity.
I think that the study group is a great idea. Anything that helps you with your grades will be very beneficial to further your education and confidence. Who knows, maybe you can become an A student with just a little bit of guidance.
If you are a student at PSO and need any help with your studies, please contact the office and they will answer any questions you may have.
