Supporting teens in their academic journey

By Dr. Brian Powderly, Head of School, Ohio Digital Learning School 

Educators across Ohio work tirelessly to ensure that every student receives the education they need to succeed—especially those facing learning challenges. Despite their best efforts, many students continue to struggle in traditional classroom settings, leaving parents searching for solutions to help their children thrive. 

Teenagers navigate a critical period of growth and development as they transition into young adulthood, facing academic, social and personal challenges. While encouragement that “tomorrow is a new day” can help, it is often not enough. Identifying the root cause of their teen’s struggles early on enables parents and educators to take proactive measures that support academic achievement, build resilience, and boost confidence. 

Teenagers with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or ADHD often face significant challenges in high school. A teen with dyslexia may struggle with reading comprehension, writing and find studying difficult, leading to frustration, low confidence and avoidance of class participation. ADHD affects focus, organization and impulse control, making it hard to complete assignments, manage time, and follow multi-step tasks. Without proper support, students may feel misunderstood or disengaged. 

According to national surveys, 40-60% of students exhibited signs of disengagement in school before the COVID-19 pandemic, and that trend has only become more pronounced. Some students may feel disconnected from the curriculum, while others may struggle to see the relevance of their coursework. Lack of engagement can manifest as reluctance to participate in class, declining motivation, or disruptive behavior. 

Exposure to global events, the 24-hour news cycle, and school-related stress can contribute to increased anxiety and difficulty concentrating. Bullying is another factor that affects academic success. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five high school students has experienced bullying. Signs may include reluctance to attend school, changes in personality, trouble sleeping, or missing belongings. Addressing these issues early can help prevent negative effects on a teen’s education. 

Establishing a safe space where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their school experiences is essential. For parents, an approach that includes active listening, asking guiding questions, and validation of their child’s feelings while offering solutions, can be an impactful approach. 

Helping teenagers develop structured study habits can significantly improve their academic performance. Suggestions include creating a distraction-free workspace, using planners for assignments, and incorporating study techniques that match a teen’s learning style—such as visual aids or hands-on learning activities. 

Recognizing and celebrating small successes reinforces a teen’s confidence in their abilities. Whether it’s passing a test after extra study time or completing a difficult assignment, acknowledging their hard work can encourage continued effort. Engaging in extracurricular activities can also help build confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. 

Maintaining open communication with educators allows parents to stay informed about their teen’s progress. Setting up meetings with teachers or guidance counselors can help develop personalized strategies, such as seating adjustments, study groups, or additional tutoring support. 

Parents can also seek alternative learning environments for their children. For example, virtual schools can provide students the opportunity to learn at their own pace with tailored support, helping them build confidence and academic success in a way that works best for them. And, for students easily distracted in the traditional classroom, with lifestyle scheduling challenges, or those with unique medical or physical needs, the online environment can open the door to deeper engagement. 

Early intervention and ongoing support can help struggling students rediscover their love of learning. By fostering open communication, implementing effective study strategies, and leveraging available resources, parents and educators can help teens overcome academic challenges and build confidence. 

Ohio Digital Learning School (ODLS) is a Department of Education-Designated Dropout Prevention and Recovery School. By offering targeted interventions, specialized programs, and an adaptable learning environment, ODLS empowers struggling students to reach their full potential.