Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the rigorous academic environment and high-pressure atmosphere faced by students at Rongcheng No. 3 High School, emphasizing their dedication to preparing for the increasingly challenging Gaokao (National College Entrance Examination) amid ongoing educational reforms [4][7][10]. Group 1: Academic Performance and Environment - Shandong province is recognized as a major area for Gaokao, with 998,000 candidates in the previous year, and Rongcheng No. 3 High School has a significantly higher college admission rate compared to the provincial average [4][10]. - The school, established less than 30 years ago, is noted for its strict and pragmatic educational approach, attracting attention from other educational institutions seeking to learn from its management practices [4][10]. - The school's high school seniors engage in collective running exercises while studying, demonstrating their commitment to maximizing study time [2][4]. Group 2: Challenges of Educational Reform - Teachers acknowledge that the Gaokao has become increasingly difficult, with significant reforms implemented since 2020, requiring more in-depth preparation and a shift from rote memorization to problem-solving skills [7][8][10]. - The new "3+3" model in Shandong, which includes a mix of compulsory and elective subjects, has raised the difficulty level of the exams, posing additional challenges for students [10][12]. - Students express feelings of pressure and urgency, with many dedicating extra hours to study in hopes of achieving their academic goals [12][15]. Group 3: Student Well-being and Support - The school has established a dedicated psychological counseling service to support students facing academic stress, emphasizing the importance of mental health alongside academic performance [17]. - Teachers and school administrators are aware of the intense pressure students face and strive to maintain a balance between academic rigor and overall student development [17][19]. - The school offers various extracurricular activities, including drone programming and traditional crafts, to enhance students' comprehensive skills and provide a well-rounded education [19].