New book designed to help young teens transition into high school

By Staff Writer

Many high school freshman face an assortment of social challenges, including peer pressure, bullying and an increased exposure to illegal substances.

The company LifeBound - which aims to help adolescents succeed in school - recently released the second edition of the book Making the Most of High School: Success Secrets for Freshman. The book, which is written by Carol Carter, may serve as a guide for young teens entering high school. The text mixes humor and real-world instruction in an effort to keep the reader engaged.

Carter said that many freshman do not go on to graduate from high school because they succumb to the pitfalls increased social freedom, which includes skipping school, abusing drugs and bullying. Problem teens who develop these behaviors are more likely to ignore their academics and be disciplined by the school, including suspensions or even expulsions.

LifeBound reports that only about two-third of ninth-grade students will receive their high school diplomas in four years. More than 80 percent of incoming high school freshman go on to receive a degree from a college institution.

Parents who are concerned about their child's behavior may consider programs that are designed to provide help for troubled teens - such as boarding schools and wilderness therapy.