Ninth Grade: An Important Year

Seniors aren't usually very helpful.

The first year in high school is one of inner turmoil. Middle school success matters nought; freshmen start at the bottom of the pecking order. The campus is much larger, less friendlier, and unfamiliar. It's not surprising that this is when many young teens lose their way.

Years ago, researchers at the University of Chicago discovered that how students perform during their freshman year is the best predictor of whether they’ll graduate — better than their previous grades or attendance or their family’s income.

So just hang on, kids, it'll get better.

These little town blues, are melting away. I'm gonna make a brand new start of it, In old New York ninth grade, and...

If I can make it there, I'm gonna make it anywhere. It's up to you, New York, New York ninth grade, ninth grade!