Third quarter grades matter

Overview

Third-quarter grades arrive on transcripts. Most colleges don't formally receive these, but final transcripts (post-graduation) show everything. Maintain rigor.

Who Sees Third Quarter

• Schools requesting additional reports
• Some counselor-sent updates
• Final transcript after graduation shows all

Academic Expectation

Even without formal reporting:

• Final transcript matters
• Rescission possible for significant drops
• Third quarter preps for college rigor

Maintaining Rigor

• Continue AP/IB coursework
• Prepare for May AP Exams
• Stay engaged in honors
• Don't skip assignments

Subject-Specific

AP Courses

• AP exams early-to-mid May
• Third quarter grades = preparation
• Strong performance = college credit
• Skipped exams = missed credit

IB Courses

• IB exams throughout May
• Final scores in July
• Coursework continues

Honors / Electives

• Don't swap rigor for easy electives
• Notify college if changing

If Struggling

• Talk to teacher for help/extensions
• Counselor meeting
• Identify root cause
• Act early

Rescission Standard

Triggers:

• D or F grades
• Full-grade drop across multiple courses
• Academic probation
• Disciplinary incidents

Minor dips usually don't trigger.

Communicating

If significant grade change expected:

1. Discuss with counselor first
2. Proactive email to admissions
3. Factual, not defensive
4. Focus on circumstances + improvement plan

AP Prep

• Third quarter = optimal ramp
• Practice exams
• Identify weak content
• FRQ practice
• Regular study sessions

Mental Health

• Burnout common
• Schedule rest
• Don't skip sleep/exercise
• Seek help if mental health impacts grades

The Final Stretch

Last 8-10 weeks. Finish strong. Transcript is permanent.