Head2Head - Students SHOULD be able to have part-time jobs

Written by: Kaylee Heinz '12      
        I believe that high school students should have a part time job of some sort. High school students have a part-time job for a number of reasons. A few of those reasons may possibly be necessary for the individual, desired and or required.

        I feel that having a paid job is a normal part of growing up. For centuries teens were ordinary members of the workforce. And since education became essential, hundreds of millions of students have successfully combined school work with a part-time job. I have found that working a few hours outside school does not harm achievement, so there is no reason to veto the idea. Even if having a job did affect student’s education, teens are old enough to make that choice for themselves. It should not be forced on them by an official banning.

        About two-thirds of high school students have jobs. Just under half of those students have jobs that money is dealt with under the table like babysitting or mowing the neighbor’s lawn. Therefore, money is not deducted due to tax purposes. Students who are on official payroll, about two-thirds work in food service or other retail businesses, such as beauty salons or grocery stores.

        A major reason why high school students work is for extra money. Most teens work because they want the money, but a part-time job can have other benefits. I feel that high school students should have a job to be able to be independent, instead of relying on mom and dad for everything. Therefore, students might also even work to help their parents out economically. I think that you should consider having a job especially if you do not participate in any extra curricular activities after school. High school students that are considering their future may possibly even save money to attend a secondary school, Parents can also have a lot to do with why a student is working while in high school; they may force the student for the reason that it is able to give them work experience that everybody needs.

        Communication, teamwork, and leadership skills among their peers can be more important than technical skills. Having a job can also lead to the student to start being more responsible and not having to rely on their parents for everything. It could make kids grow up and have a better outlook on his or her future. I believe people must trust us teens to find our own way in the world, deciding which opportunities we will take. For most students, getting a part-time job is an important way of gaining independence. If we keep students wrapped up safe at home and school, they will never develop an adult identity. The danger then is they won’t be able to cope when they have to go to college or leave home for the first time without their mom and dad.