For high school seniors, the fall semester is a whirlwind of responsibilities. Between preparing for the college, the military or the work force and committing time to senior service, the Class of2025 is finding ways to juggle academic expectations and community contributions. On Thursday, Oct. 10, the seniors will have the opportunity to participate in Senior Service Day, a chance for them to give back to the community.
But, as the seniors are leaving KHS to work in the community, the freshmen, sophomores and juniors will take the PSAT. While the PSAT is a rite of passage for juniors aiming for National Merit scholarships and preparing for the SAT, seniors are focusing on a different kind of service—one that goes beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community.
For juniors, the PSAT is more than just a practice test. It’s a chance to shine on the national stage, with the possibility of earning scholarships and recognition. However, the preparation comes with its challenges.
For seniors, though the PSAT is behind them; it’s a reminder of how much they’ve grown academically—and now, their focus has shifted from personal achievement to community.
While the freshmen, sophomores and juniors are taking the PSAT, the seniors will trade their test prep books for volunteer work, as they embark on a journey of giving back.
From mentoring younger students to organizing food drives, their senior service projects are as varied as their plans for after high school.
“Senior service has been a highlight for me. It’s a chance to step outside the classroom and really make a difference,” said senior Brooklynn Baker.
Balancing this commitment with schoolwork can be just as challenging as studying for the PSAT, but for many seniors, the work is worth it. The experience teaches them time management, organization and the value of giving back—skills that will serve them well as they head off to college and beyond. The overlap between PSAT prep for juniors and senior service for seniors is a busy time, but it’s also one of growth. Students are learning how to manage competing priorities, whether it’s hitting the books or heading out into the community.
“There’s something really rewarding about finding a balance between studying and helping others. It’s a different kind of achievement,” Baker said.
As the freshmen, sophomores and juniors wrap up their PSAT exam and seniors complete their service projects, the school community looks forward to seeing where these experiences will take them. Whether it’s a scholarship, an impactful project or simply the satisfaction of a job well done, KHS students are proving that they can handle the challenges of both the academic and real world with grace and determination.
