What is possible to do in high school despite everything

What we can do in secondary school and it’s in our hands.

Working in compulsory secondary education today is no easy task. Tutors and teachers operate within a complex context, marked by rapid social change and conditions that often hinder the educational process. Even so, there is still much that can be done in secondary education that is meaningful, impactful, and of real educational value.

Students at this stage are experiencing an intense period in their lives. They are in the midst of constructing their identity, searching for who they are and what their place is in the world. At the same time, they belong to a generation that struggles to access resources and opportunities that once seemed more readily available, such as stability, future prospects, and social recognition. This reality often generates feelings of frustration, uncertainty, and, in some cases, hopelessness. This unease manifests in the classroom as demotivation, disruptive behavior, or emotional distance.
In this scenario, the role of the adult becomes fundamental. Beyond the curriculum, the teacher must be a role model, a presence, and a guide. Simply being there, consistently and coherently, is an educational intervention in itself. The way the adult speaks, listens, sets limits, and supports conveys powerful messages that directly impact the students.

Wanting to be in the position you hold is key. Students easily recognize when an adult is truly present, when they uphold their role with conviction, even in the face of difficulty. This doesn’t mean having all the answers or avoiding mistakes, but rather demonstrating availability, consistency, and authenticity.

Despite the challenging circumstances, secondary school can create spaces of trust, dialogue, and meaning. Every gesture of presence, every knowing glance, every supportive word contributes to providing a safe environment where adolescents can grow. In this context, adults not only teach but also support, guide, and give meaning to a particularly fragile yet potentially rich stage of life.