1. Welcome to James Caldwell High School: “A Place of Possibilities”

2. Welcome to An Introduction to College Planning
There are steps you can take now to prepare for the college application process.

3. JCHS Guidance Dept. Lisa Blackman, Supervisor of Guidance
Frank Lattoz, Guidance Counselor
Lacey Imbriaco, Guidance Counselor
Brianna Watts, 9th Grade Guidance Counselor

4. Graduation Requirements
English – 4 years
Math – 3 years
Science – 3 years
Social Studies – 3 years
World Language – 1 year
Health/PE – 4 years
Financial Literacy – ½ year
Electives – 1 year Fine Art, 1 year Practical Art
Minimum total of 120 credits

5. The Transcript
A student’s transcript is reflective of the strength of academic program of the school.
How do I make it stronger?
The student’s transcript is reflective of a student’s complete (9-12) profile.
The student’s transcript reflects his/her Grade Point Average (GPA) and number of credits earned

6. The Activity Sheet Quality rather than quantity
Organize activities by subtopic
clubs
athletics
community service
summer programs/travel
honors/awards
employment
Highlight positions of leadership

7. The Activity Sheet

8. Standardized Testing SAT Reasoning Test SAT Subject Tests ACT
When and how often to take the tests

9. Two Year & Four Year Colleges
Associate Degree AA
Certificate Program
Trade/Specialized School
Bachelor’s Degree BA/BS

10. The Search Naviance/Family Connection College websites
College representatives visit JCHS
Develop a list of 5-8 choices
Visit colleges
See your counselor !

19. High School: Every year
Take challenging classes in core academic subjects- and do well in them
Get involved in school or community based extracurricular activities that enable you to explore career/personal interests and meet new people. Consider volunteering- remember – it’s quality(not quantity ) that counts.
Continue to save for college

20. 9th Grade 10th Grade Continue to do well in school
Start thinking about career interest
Utilize Naviance to research career and college options – you will be meeting with your Counselor during the Winter to register your Naviance account and complete a Career Interest Inventory
Begin Resume in Naviance
10th Grade
Continue to keep your grades up
Take PSAT in October
Utilize Naviance to research career and college options – you will be meeting with your Counselor during the Winter to complete a Personality Inventory to identify possible major and career options
Work on Resume in Naviance

21. 11th Grade
Begin to research colleges that interest you- be aware of entrance requirements. (i.e. specific courses, standardized tests, etc.)
Take advantage of College Rep visits through the Guidance Office
Investigate financial aid options- visit studentaid.ed.gov for assistance.
Take PSAT in October
Attend the parents’ financial aid workshop in the Fall
When you meet with your School Counselor to plan your Senior Year schedule, you will also discuss college options
Take the SAT or ACT at least once in the spring
Begin College visits- information sessions and official tours.

22. Summer before 12th Grade
Visit college websites to collect information about applications, financial aid, deadlines and campus visits
Continue to visit colleges that interest you
Decide whether you are going to apply under a particular college’s early decision or early action plan by learning about the program requirements and application deadlines
Register for Fall SAT or ACT
Begin college application and essays

23. 12th Grade Continue to take courses that are challenging
Work hard all year- second semester grades can affect college acceptances and scholarship eligibility
You will meet with your counselor to discuss your list of schools and completing college applications
When completing applications follow directions and PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO DEADLINES
Follow guidance department instructions regarding teacher recommendations, counselor forms and transcripts
Attend the Financial Aid Information Night to prepare for the FAFSA
Research scholarships for which you may qualify
In April decide which college you would like to attend as most schools require a deposit by May 1st

24. Questions
If you have specific questions students should visit the Guidance Office to speak with their Counselor .
We’re here to help!
Counselors
Ms. Blackman
Mr. Lattoz
Mrs. Imbriaco
Mrs. Watts

25. Welcome to James Caldwell High School: “A Place of Possibilities”