The first 16 weeks of school — from the first bell to Thanksgiving break — can make or break the academic year. This blog post outlines simple, realistic ways middle and high school students can stay organized, manage stress, and build productive habits that last. Whether your student is starting strong or playing catch-up, these tips will help them thrive.

AI is everywhere — but are students really learning how to think? In this interview, a veteran high school teacher shares how AI is showing up in the classroom, how students can use it responsibly, and what parents should look out for. Full of practical tips, surprising insights, and a quiet nudge toward one-on-one support, this post is a must-read for any parent navigating high school in the age of AI.

Planning to major in chemical engineering at a UC? Start here. This 4-year high school blueprint lays out the courses, extracurriculars, and key milestones students need to follow to stay on track — starting in 9th grade.

Starting high school is a big transition — for students and parents. In this guide, we break down what to expect in 9th grade, how to navigate the challenges, and what practical steps you can take to help your student thrive. Bonus: why discipline = happiness, and how to make it part of your student's routine.

Is your teen stuck in summer mode? This post shares practical strategies to ease the transition back to school, rebuild academic habits, and start the year off right.

The 2025–2026 school year is here — and San Diego parents want their kids to start strong. This guide walks you through what to do (and when), from building routines to finding the right local support. Whether your student needs a boost in math, a plan for study habits, or just a more confident start, you’ll find practical strategies to make this school year their best one yet.

Is your teen capable — but unmotivated? Tired of being the homework police? This guide shows parents how to stop the nagging cycle and help teens take ownership of their learning. Learn practical steps to build confidence, accountability, and independence — starting now.

The rules for college have changed — and the financial consequences of mistakes are bigger than ever. With student loan forgiveness programs being phased out, families need to be proactive. In this post, we break down the 5 most expensive mistakes high school students make under the new loan laws — and exactly how to avoid them.

Learn what the “summer slide” is, why it happens, and how to keep your child’s academic skills sharp with just a few hours of learning each week.

Wondering if your teen should take AP classes next year? This guide breaks down the benefits, challenges, and key considerations every parent should know—plus which AP courses are the most difficult and most impressive to college admissions officers.

Wondering if your student still needs to take the SAT? The answer depends — and things are changing fast. Here's an up-to-date guide on which colleges still require the SAT in 2025, where it's optional, and how test scores can still impact scholarships and admissions.

Is your teen feeling “checked out” on school? You’re not alone — and there are ways to help. In this post, we share five practical strategies parents can use to help teens rebuild motivation, reduce overwhelm, and re-engage with learning.

Most high schoolers are never taught how to study — they’re just expected to know. From time management to note-taking to spaced repetition, we break down the essential academic skills every student should master (but often don’t) — plus simple strategies parents can use to help build them.

College prep doesn’t start in 12th grade — it begins the moment your student enters high school. This guide breaks down what parents of 9th–12th graders need to know at each stage to help their child stay on track and stand out in the college admissions process.

Wondering how to help your high schooler prepare for the SAT? This guide breaks down exactly what parents can do — from free online resources to expert-backed study tips — to help students stay focused, confident, and ready for test day.

The last four weeks of school can make or break a student’s semester. From final exams to AP tests, it’s a high-stakes time—and students need more than just last-minute cramming. In this post, we share practical, parent-friendly strategies to help your teen stay focused, reduce stress, and finish the school year strong.

Executive function skills like time management, organization, and focus are essential for high schoolers to thrive academically and personally. Learn actionable tips for parents to support their teen's development and discover how Tutors & Friends can provide personalized coaching to help students excel.

Paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Learn about financial aid options like grants, scholarships, and loans, and discover tips for navigating the FAFSA and finding scholarship opportunities. This guide is here to help you and your teen plan for an affordable college experience.

The PSAT is more than a practice SAT—it’s the gateway to becoming a National Merit Scholar and unlocking scholarship opportunities. Learn how the PSAT works, the benefits of National Merit recognition, and how Tutors & Friends can help your student prepare to excel and achieve their goals.

Are you preparing for private high school admissions? Learn everything you need to know about the HSPT and ISEE, from test formats to preparation tips. Discover how Tutors & Friends can help your student excel and achieve their best score!