Pencils and Paychecks

By: Braylee Chaney 

Many students in Pueblo County are learning how to balance school and a part-time job. For some, working is a way to help support their families or save for the future. While juggling homework, activities, and a job can be stressful, students say it also teaches responsibility and time management.
At several high schools in Pueblo, students work part-time jobs at places like restaurants, grocery stores, farms, retail stores, and family businesses. Some students also help take care of younger siblings or do chores at home before and after school. 

Teachers and counselors say working can help students build important life skills, such as communication, teamwork, and budgeting money. However, they also remind students that school should remain the top priority. When students work too many hours, it can lead to fatigue, missed assignments, and higher stress levels.

Many students say they try to create schedules that allow them to finish homework before going to work or late at night. Some use study halls, lunch breaks, or weekends to catch up on schoolwork. Others rely on support from family members and teachers to stay on track.

“Working and going to school is challenging, but it also teaches me how to be responsible and what to prioritize,” said Senior Lilly Mannon.
Parents in Pueblo County also play a role in helping students manage their time. Some families depend on extra income from teen workers, while others encourage jobs mainly for experience and learning.

School administrators say they understand that many students need or want to work, but they encourage open communication. If a student is struggling, counselors can help adjust schedules or connect families with community resources. Some teachers enthusiastically support working students.

“Agricultural education supports a program called Work-Based Learning, and it is part of the three-circle model we use. Also, in our program, students can get a high school credit for work-based learning as long as they invest 76 hours per semester,” explained Ms. Johnson. 

Overall, Pueblo County students who work while going to school face challenges, but many say the experience helps prepare them for adulthood. By learning how to manage time, money, and responsibilities, these students are building skills that will help them succeed in the future.