As the final bell rings at Urbana High School, many students are not heading home to relax. Instead, they are clocking in.

From fast food restaurants to retail stores, a growing number of students are balancing school with part-time jobs. What starts as a way to earn money often turns into a daily juggling act of responsibilities.

“I usually go straight from school to work,” said junior Emily Carter, who works several nights a week at a local coffee shop. “By the time I get home, I still have homework, and I’m exhausted. It’s hard to stay on top of everything.”

The Numbers Behind Student Work

Student employment is more common than many realize. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of high school students work during the school year.

Researchers from the University of Washington and the National Education Association have found that students who

work more than 15 to 20 hours a week are more likely to experience increased stress levels, sleep loss, and drops in academic performance.

“Teenagers are still developing, and sleep and focus are critical,” said Dr. Karen Mitchell, an education researcher at the Center for Adolescent Learning. “When work begins to take priority over rest and schoolwork, it can have long-term

effects.”

Urbana guidance counselor Ms. Sly said she has also noticed more students struggling to balance packed schedules.

“A lot of students are trying to manage school, sports, clubs, family responsibilities, and jobs all at once,” Sly said. “Some handle it very well, but others become overwhelmed quickly.”

Why Students Choose to Work

For some Urbana students, having a job is about more than just extra spending money.

“I help pay for my own gas and save for college,” said senior Ethan Wright, who works at a grocery store. “It’s stressful sometimes, but I don’t really have a choice. I just have to manage my time.”

Others say they work to gain independence or real-world experience.

“It feels good to make my own money,” said sophomore Brynn Fegley. “I’m learning how to be responsible and manage things on my own.”

When It All Piles Up

Balancing school, extracurricular activities, and a job can quickly become overwhelming.

“There are nights where I don’t get to bed until after midnight,” Fegley said. “You want to do well in school and your activities, but work takes up a lot of your time.”

Teachers at Urbana have noticed the impact this balancing act can have.

“Students who work late hours often come in tired or with incomplete assignments,” said English teacher Ms. Anthony. “It’s not a lack of effort. They’re just trying to handle a lot.”

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Despite the challenges, many students say working has helped them grow in ways school alone cannot.

“I’ve definitely become more responsible,” Carter said. “I’ve learned how to manage my time better and communicate with people.”

Students say having a job teaches accountability in a way school sometimes does not.

“You can’t really procrastinate at a job,” said senior Alex Epley. “If you don’t show up, it actually matters.”

Finding the Right Balance

For students who work, success often comes down to knowing their limits.

“I try not to work too many hours during the school week,” Wright said. “If I do, my grades start slipping. You have to find a balance.”

As more students take on jobs, one thing is clear: managing school and work is not easy. But for many at Urbana High School, it is simply part of everyday life.