It is not uncommon for high school students to have jobs.Typically students begin working their sophomore or junior year, when they are able to drive themselves and have an overall flexible schedule. There are countless reasons for why students get jobs at a young age such as wanting to save for college, helping their family out, to just have spending money or just because their parents want their children to get the experience at a young age. 

Despite the fact that working in high school can give teens added exposure to adulthood, one big concern is students’ ability to maintain good grades while also having to work a consistent schedule.

“I got a job because I was tired of not having money to spend  and needing to ask my parents for some when I wanted to hang out with friends,” junior Luke Skiles, Shipleys employee said. “It hasn’t affected my grades, if it does my bosses will allow me to work less since they understand the importance of my education.” 

Companies are required to schedule employees attending high school no more than 18 hours a week, therefore, students will have time to keep track of schoolwork and have no stress.

“I want to start saving for college and have my own spending money. It has only influenced my school life a little because I haven’t had as much time to study, but I love my job,” Davinia Ibizugbe, worker at her church’s preschool said.

Although her work has taken time away from school she is still able to achieve good grades and stay on top of all her house and school work. 

“I decided to start working to be able to pay for my goats and go out with friends. It hasn’t taken a toll on my grades, infact, it has definitely pushed me to get my school work done in order to get to work on time,” Caroline Andrews, Chick-fil-A worker said.