Why Many American High School Students Fail – And How to Turn It Around

By Boluwaji Ojajuni

Two years ago, a parent came to me worried about her son, Michael. He had always done well in middle school, but now in 10th grade, his grades were slipping fast.

She said to me:

“Sir, my son is smart. He understands in class, but when it comes to tests, he just can’t deliver. What’s happening?”

Michael’s story is not unusual. Across the US, countless students face the same challenges. And the truth is—most teens aren’t lazy. They’re simply missing the right study habits, mindset, and support system.

Here are the 10 biggest reasons US high school students struggle—and what parents can do.

1. Wrong Peer Influence

High school is where friendships shape futures. If your teen spends time with kids who aren’t serious about school, their performance will drop. A motivated student surrounded by achievers will rise.

2. Negative Mindset

Many teens say, “I hate math,” or “I’ll never pass science.” Those words become self-fulfilling prophecies. Academic success begins with belief.

3. Poor Study & Revision Habits

Reading is not the same as studying. And studying is not the same as reviewing. Many US students don’t revise effectively, which makes tests feel overwhelming.

4. Lack of a Study Schedule

Without a personal timetable, teens usually study only when they “feel like it.” But feelings don’t produce results—structure does.

5. Weak Retention Techniques

Understanding is not enough. Students need strategies to remember under pressure—from flashcards to active recall. Without these, knowledge disappears during exams.

6. Home Distractions

Between Netflix, TikTok, video games, and social media, many homes are full of distractions. Without boundaries, study time quickly disappears.

7. Limited Parental Support

Some parents only ask: “Did you finish your homework?” But deeper involvement matters. Do you know your child’s teachers? Do you monitor their progress? Students succeed when parents are engaged.

8. Sitting at the Back in Class

Where a student sits can affect focus. Sitting at the back often means distractions, chatting, or missed lessons. Struggling students should sit at the front for better concentration.