…In both cases, this fundamental building block provides a critical period of development between elementary and collegiate education. As young adults leave primary or middle schools for high school, they tend to take on more responsibilities. They are not just children anymore; they are teenagers who seek acceptance and roles that will not only build character, but friendships and relationships. These friendships and relationships may be challenged everyday in and outside of the classroom. Whether students engage in drama, band, student-government, high school football, volleyball, basketball, or any other number of extra-curricular activities, they begin developing hopes and futures for themselves and those around them.

Along with the classroom pressures to receive good grades and starting positions, young adults in high schools also face peer pressures from those around them. Some research shows that the formative teenage years are quite volatile, with individuals developing anxieties over the nearness of adult life. Teens want to drive cars, and may learn to do so in driver's ed. This is a good idea, especially for those who wish to make a big impression for the high school prom. Or better yet, to transport oneself to and from extra-curricular activities, SAT prep classes, and jobs.

Many high school students choose to go on to technical schools, junior colleges or universities after graduating from high school. This makes the time spent in high school very important; as it prepares them for taking the next step to higher education and more responsibility.