Big News for PA Residents: Take the GED or HiSET for Free

Are you ready to earn your high school equivalency diploma? There’s never been a better time to take that first step—Pennsylvania is now offering the GED® and HiSET® exams completely free for eligible residents!

Thanks to new state funding, Pennsylvanians can now take either test at no cost, removing a major barrier for adult learners who want to boost their career opportunities, enroll in college, or achieve personal milestones. Whether you choose to take your test online or at an approved testing center, this initiative makes it easier than ever to invest in your future.

At ContinuEDU, we’re here to help you succeed. We offer low-cost, virtual GED prep that fits your schedule, supports your learning style, and keeps you motivated. Whether you need a refresher in math, help with reading and writing, or guidance on how to stay organized and focused, our expert educators are ready to support you every step of the way.

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. With free testing and affordable prep, your diploma is within reach.

Start your journey today at icontinuedu.com – Let’s do this together.

How to Study for Finals (Without the Meltdown)

Finals season is here. For many students, that means late nights, rising stress, and lots of last-minute cramming. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

At ContinuEDU, we believe studying for finals should be structured, manageable, and empowering, not overwhelming. Whether your student has ADHD, executive function challenges, or just struggles with focus, we’ve got a plan that works with their brain, not against it.

1. Start with a Plan

Executive function begins with planning. Finals feel chaotic when students try to tackle everything all at once. Create a Finals Week study plan.

• List out each exam and its date

• Estimate how much time they’ll need to review for each one

• Block off specific study times in a planner or calendar

We recommend using backward planning: start from the test date and work backward, spreading prep over several days. No more all-nighters!

2. Break Big Tasks into Bite-Sized Steps

“Study for math final” is vague and overwhelming. Instead, break it down into actionable mini-tasks, like:

• Review formulas

• Re-do practice problems

• Watch video explanation of confusing topic

• Meet with teacher for review

• Take practice test

This makes the process feel achievable and gives a sense of momentum with every small win.

3. Use Time Blocks and Breaks

Brains need structure and rest. Study in short, focused chunks:

• 25–30 minutes of focused work

• 5–10 minute breaks

• Longer breaks after every 2–3 sessions

This helps prevent burnout, especially for students who struggle with sustained attention. Tools like the Pomodoro Technique or time-tracking apps can help.

4. Mix Up Study Methods

Rereading notes isn’t enough. Use active recall and spaced repetition to really make learning stick:

• Create and quiz with flashcards

• Teach the material to someone else

• Make a mind map or timeline

• Practice with past tests or review questions

Need help figuring out what works best for your learning style? That’s where we come in.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Studying is only part of the equation. Finals success also means:

• Getting enough sleep

• Staying hydrated

• Taking movement breaks

• Eating brain-fueling foods

• Spend time with people who bring you joy

We remind our clients: you’re not a robot, you’re a human. Take care of your brain like it matters (because it does!).

Let’s Study Smarter, Not Harder

Finals are a challenge, but they don’t have to be a crisis. With the right executive function strategies, students can study more effectively, feel more confident, and perform at their best.

Why Spring Cleaning Is a Great EF Exercise

Spring cleaning taps into several core executive function skills:

• Planning & Prioritization: Deciding what needs to be done and when

• Organization: Sorting, labeling, and creating systems

• Task Initiation: Getting started (the hardest part!)

• Time Management: Estimating how long each task will take

• Flexibility: Adjusting the plan when things take longer or shorter than expected

Step 1: Define the Goal

Start with a clear question:
What do you want the space to feel or function like when you’re done?

Whether it’s a tidy desk, an organized backpack, or a decluttered room, defining a goal gives the client a reason why they're doing it, which boosts motivation.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Step 2: Break It Down

One of the biggest executive function pitfalls is looking at the whole task instead of its pieces. Examples:

• Empty desk drawers

• Sort into keep/toss/donate piles

• Wipe down surfaces

• Put like items together

• Label storage bins

• Vacuum the area

• Restock with essentials

Check off each task for a sense of progress and momentum.

Step 3: Make a Timeline

Instead of tackling everything in one day, break the cleaning into short, scheduled sessions (15–45 minutes, depending on age/attention span). Use timers, music, or even a rewards system to keep motivation high.

This is where time estimation and self-monitoring come in.

Step 4: Celebrate Completion

Once the task is done, take time to reflect:

• What went well?

• What was harder than expected?

• What strategies worked?

This not only builds metacognition (thinking about thinking) but also reinforces a sense of capability and ownership.

Bonus: Build New Routines

Now that the space is reset, how can your student maintain it? Consider:

• A 5-minute evening reset

• A “one in, one out” rule for clutter

• A weekend 10-minute tidy with music or a checklist

These maintenance habits support executive functioning long after spring is over.

From Cleaning to Confidence

Executive function coaching isn’t just about school. It’s about helping clients feel capable, organized, and in control of their environments. A simple spring cleaning plan can help build those muscles, and some peace of mind along the way.

Want support in building executive function skills for real life?
Book a session with ContinuEDU and turn every season into a season of growth.