<p>I think the keys are 1) having a school-time job where the boss is understanding and the hours are flexible enough to allow for the swings in the school calendar, 2) her understanding that this is going to probably mean working on the weekends and during what used to be her vacation time (and also probably missing out on family vacations), and 3) her having reliable transportation. If she can put together all of those elements, then working during school time is definitely doable. </p>
<p>I was a very committed high school student (and by committed I mean over scheduled) but I also had a job that I loved that I was able to do during school. I’d work after school for 3 hours a couple times a week, and then all day Saturday & Sunday (we had short hours on Sunday). My boss was also really great and understanding and would let me move my shifts around when I had something that demanded my attention (I needed to study for finals, or I needed to be at the dress rehearsals of my school play all day, etc.) She was actually like another parent and would tell me all the time that I wouldn’t be allowed to work there anymore if she found out that my grades were dropping, or if my parents were unhappy with my school performance in anyway. Also I could study at work if things were slow. </p>
<p>I was very luck with that job, but the key for high school students I think is just to focus on jobs where the hours are flexible, or where you get different shifts each week/month, or better yet where you get to pick your shifts. And also to be very honest with your boss. If you know in advance you’re going to need a lot of time off in a certain time of the year, tell them. You don’t want to surprise them later and put yourself and them in a bad spot.</p>