What to Do When You Feel Your School Isn’t at Its Best

Every school goes through ups and downs. Sometimes the energy feels great—teachers are supportive, students are motivated, and the environment is positive. Other times, things may not feel so smooth. Maybe rules feel unfair, resources are lacking, or the overall mood of the school just seems off. If you’ve ever felt like your school isn’t at its best, you’re not alone. Here are some ways to handle those feelings and even make a difference:

1. Look at the Bright Spots

Even when things seem negative, there are always parts of school that shine. Maybe it’s a favorite teacher, a club you enjoy, or supportive friends. Focusing on these positives can help balance out the frustrations.

 2. Share Your Voice Respectfully

Schools grow when students speak up. If something feels wrong—whether it’s about rules, school spirit, or classroom issues—consider bringing it up to a teacher, counselor, or student council. Change often starts with student voices.

3. Be Part of the Solution

Instead of only pointing out problems, think about what can be done. Want more school spirit? Help organize events. Don’t like the way rules are enforced? Suggest alternatives. Taking action shows leadership and can inspire others.

4. Build Strong Connections

Sometimes a school feels “off” because students and teachers feel disconnected. Making an effort to participate in activities, help classmates, and support teachers can strengthen the sense of community.

5. Take Care of Yourself

When your environment feels draining, it’s extra important to look after your own well-being. Stay on top of your work, make time for hobbies, and lean on friends who make school a little brighter.

6. Remember Schools Change

No school is perfect, and every year brings new people, new challenges, and new opportunities. What feels tough now might improve over time—ESPECIALLY if students and staff WORK TOGETHER to push things forward.

When your school isn’t at its best, it doesn’t mean it’s hopeless. It’s a chance for students, teachers, and leaders to reflect and improve. By staying positive, speaking up respectfully, and being part of the solution, you can help make your school the kind of place everyone is proud to belong to.

Matilda!?

Dear Advice Column,

This person is supposed to be a leader, but they’re unfair, trying to be scary and fake. Sometimes it feels like they only want to put down students instead of encouraging them, and it’s making students feel weird.

How do I deal with someone with power who acts this way? I don’t want to get in trouble for telling my parents, but I also don’t want to stay silent if things don’t feel good. What’s the best way for a student to handle a “Trunchbull?”

Sincerely,
A Scared Student

Dear Scared Student,

Matilda Wormwood, the brilliant and brave little girl from Roald Dahl’s classic story Matilda, faced one of the toughest school experiences and bullies in school history. Whether it was being shouted at, unfair punishments, and terrifying adult presence, Matilda held on to her morals and stayed sweet and fair through it all. It was her family at home, the teachers and Headteacher, using fear instead of respect and Matilda learned to navigate it all with the help of Miss. Honey. But what if Matilda were a student today? How could she deal with such an intimidating and unfair experience in a modern school setting, especially without the help of Miss. Honey and her few good friends?  

Here’s the advice I’d give her:

Speak Up (Safely and Smartly) I encourage you to use your voice. Matilda, talk to a trusted teacher, like Miss Honey, or even the school counselor, and explain the unfair treatment. Reporting bullying no matter if it comes from an adult, it is the first step to change. Remember to document the behavior. Instead of quietly accepting the injustice Matilda, write down what the “Trunchbull” does. Document the dates, times, and what was said or done. Documentation is powerful if you need to go to the school administration or higher.

Matilda, do you have good friends or loyal classmates and the support of an adult? Maybe you should build a stronger student network, banding together to show that the whole school, not just one child will stand behind you to support your cause. There’s strength in numbers. Use your collective voice for change. A modern-day Matilda might start a petition, write to the people assist with the problem, or even speak at a school board meeting to air your discomfort and fear. Its’s important Matilda not to let anyone crush your spirit. Today, students are reminded that self-worth isn’t determined by harsh authority figures or bullies. Matilda remember your kindness, brilliance, and creativity are YOUR greatest strengths and those matter more than fear.

In today’s schools, bullying whether from students, faculty, or staff, is not tolerated. The best advice Matilda is to stand tall, gather support, and use her voice to spark change. And, of course, keep believing in your own power.