Planning by Grade Level
Students
- Focus on earning good grades — your GPA starts now
- Get organized: use a planner or phone calendar to track assignments
- Explore your interests through electives, clubs, or sports
- Take a career interest survey (Schoolinks)
- Visit your school’s College & Career Center and meet your counselor
- Ask questions — it’s okay if post-secondary options feels new or confusing
Families
- Attend school events (interpreters are available)
- Encourage your child to talk about what they like to learn and do
- Keep all school papers, report cards, and awards in one folder
- Help your child find a quiet space at home for studying
- Remind them that education opens doors for the whole family
Students
- Keep grades strong and take challenging classes if possible
- Continue exploring careers — attend job fairs or TRIO program nights
- Ask teachers or mentors about different paths after high school
- Start learning about post-secondary options: community, university, trade, military, or employment.
- Update your career plan on Schoolinks
Families
- Attend financial aid information sessions
- Ask questions about programs that help families and students
- Encourage your teen to volunteer or join activities to explore careers
- Talk together about your family’s dreams for the future
Students
- Meet regularly with your counselor to review graduation progress
- Take the ACT (ask about free test prep options)
- Visit colleges in person or online — take your family if possible
- Start a list of colleges, trade programs, or apprenticeships that interest you
- Begin a résumé with your activities, leadership, and service hours
- Explore scholarships and learn key financial aid terms (FAFSA, grants, loans)
- Seek summer programs or internships related to your career interests
Families
- Go with your child to college visits and events — your presence matters
- Attend financial aid parent nights
- Learn how college and trade programs work in the U.S.
- Support your child’s independence and confidence — ask them to explain what they learn
- Talk about saving money, even small amounts, for college needs
Students
- Apply to colleges in the fall
- Ask how to apply to the military, apprenticeships, or trade programs
- Complete the FAFSA or Alternative Application as soon as it opens
- Apply for scholarships — ask your counselor for local opportunities
- Keep grades up — colleges still review senior-year transcripts
- Attend senior workshops for college, financial aid, and career planning
- Take the ASVAB test if you are going to the military
- Share your plans proudly — you are making history for your family!
Families
- Attend FAFSA completion nights — bring your documents and ask for help
- Celebrate your child’s achievements — graduation is a family victory!
- Stay in touch with counselors to confirm next steps after acceptance
- Learn about college move-in, support programs, and family orientation events
- Remind your child that you are proud, no matter where the journey begins
