Senioritis is a term used to describe the sudden drop in motivation often seen in high school seniors during the final months of the school year. As the end of their high school journey draws near, many seniors begin to mentally check out. Teachers have reported increases in tardiness, unexcused absences, missing assignments, and a noticeable decline in class participation. Students are no longer driven by grades, deadlines, or academic pressure. For the Class of 2025, these signs are everywhere. With college decisions finalized, prom outfits picked out, and graduation gowns in hand, it’s no surprise that many students are coasting on autopilot.

This time of year brings a mix of emotions. On one hand, there’s excitement for what comes next such as summer, college adventures, and a well-deserved break after years of hard work. On the other hand, there’s the burnout. The constant assignments, tests, and responsibilities starts to feel meaningless when the finish line is so close. For many seniors, the last few weeks of school feel less like a victory lap and more like a slow, dragging march toward the end.

Interestingly, it’s not just the seniors feeling the effects of the school year’s final stretch. The phenomenon has spread to other grade levels as well, with students in every class experiencing their own version of burnout. These phases are known as Freshman Freak-Out, Sophomore Slump, and Junior Jitters. Freshmen may be overwhelmed by their first year of high school, sophomores often feel stuck in the middle without much to look forward to, and juniors are buried under the pressure of standardized tests, AP exams, and college preparation.

Still, senioritis remains the most notorious. It’s the final hurdle before graduation, and while it might slow students down, it doesn’t stop them entirely. The Class of 2025 is moving forward. With final memories in high school being made, goodbyes being prepared, and futures being imagined, these seniors are running towards the finish line.