1. Welcome to CB West High School!
An overview of what to focus on during 10th grade.
Donna Dallam Michael Curtis
School Counselor (A – K) School Counselor (L – Z)

2. 10th = A Transition Year Independence and responsibility
Students should first attempt to resolve issues on their own.
Embrace responsibility, in a safe environment.
Adjust to new expectations
Encourage students to try and work through challenges, especially in higher level courses.
Focus on a new approach, not a lower grade.
Donna Start

3. Success at the HS Level Block scheduling – Attendance Matters!
Students should do everything possible to attend school every day.
It is difficult to do well when always “making- up” assessments and assignments.
When missing is unavoidable:
Student should all teachers directly.
Check the teacher’s website, review notes, and try to stay connected.
Always approach teachers upon return.
Donna start

4. Success at the HS Level Homework is essential
Natural ability cannot replaces effort.
A consistent, planned approach is best.
Study Skills & Time Management
Mastering how to study & how to mange time/responsibilities is a key this year.
Not just taking the time to study, BUT using that time well… in a way that shows up on test day!

5. Success at the HS Level Academic Planning
Graduation requirements and course options are online : Program of Studies.
Have an awareness of Honors/AP, and content specific course requirements.
Seek an academic challenge, while accounting for additional responsibilities.
Select appropriate courses; eventual college choice should only be part of the consideration.
Be aware of scheduling combinations (4 APs)

6. Success at the HS Level Report Cards are not mailed home
Students and Parents have access to in-progress course grades, as well as end of MP Report Cards in the portal.
Report Card Dates (Weather Permitting )
MP1 – Nov 15th
MP2 – Feb 6th
MP3 – April 15th
MP4 – June 18th

7. Academic Help Classroom Teacher Tutoring Academy
Most will have set days before/after school for help/tutoring, and exam review.
Tutoring Academy
One day a week in the West library (Tues).
Contact your student’s counselor
We can review study habits / approach.
($) Private tutoring may be available.

8. Occasionally check the portal…
…BUT, just like when you invest in stocks…
You shouldn’t check it every day!

9. Have Balance Teenagers DO need supervision
While having the freedom to make choices.
Set clear expectations (reduce anxiety)
“Must hold a ‘B’ in all classes” (be realistic with goals).
Review in scheduled periods (every two weeks).
Don’t text your student when a new grade pops up in the portal!
Set clear consequences (BOTH + / - )
Positive: “You don’t have to clean your room this week”
Negative: “You lose the computer for a week”
Mike Start

10. Have Balance Physical & Mental Well-being
Sleep, diet, and exercise
Actively manage stress
Coping strategies
Disconnect from electronics
In-School/Out of School Responsibilities
Know your limits
Prioritize your involvements

11. Senior Memories
H.S. isn’t just about preparing for college, or “life after graduation”
The connections and experiences you make while here will help shape who you are.
Carpe Diem - Make each day count!
Enjoy the Experience
Don’t put things off, get involved now.
It goes faster than you think!
The environment here is really special.

12. Opportunities Abound Many paths available to our kids
Explore new elective courses, and identify likes and dislikes across subjects.
Get involved in clubs, sports, or other activities
Activity fair for students on Sept. 26th
Henry Hunt, Athletic Director

13. Activity Fair (Some examples)
Student Government
Interact Club
World Affairs Club
Spanish Honors Society
BARC
Stars and Stripes
Mock Trial
Cooking for the homeless
Ski Club
Choir
Math League
Computer Club
GSA
Mini-THON
The Phoenix
Science Research Club
See more on website

14. Where to go for support School Counselor / Guidance Office Nurse
(Phone) /
Students can stop by guidance in-person anytime
Nurse
Please direct students to see the nurse in-person, instead of texting home for a pick-up/call-out.
House Principal
Teachers WANT to be involved as well
Contact teachers directly for classroom specifics.

15. Advisory Forming Relationships More than just announcements
Same teacher for 3 years.
Same students for 3 years.
More than just announcements
Focused lessons and activities to build connections.
“Office Hours”
Every Wednesday
Donna Start

16. Communication is Essential
Your School Counselor is here!
We are here to help guide both students and parents through high school
Academic, personal/social, and college or career related topics
Confidentiality Explained
In our role, most things are kept private.
If a student is in danger of hurting themselves, or someone else- you WILL be notified.

17. Communication Class of 2021 Guidance Page eBlasts CB West Website
Go to
-> “Schools”
-> “Secondary Schools, West”
-> “Departments, Guidance”
->“Class of 2021”
eBlasts
Be sure to have a working in the portal
CB West Website
Go to “Parents” for several useful links
Daily announcements, calendar, teacher websites
Donna End

19. Naviance A website that students will use from now until graduation.
College and Career tools are the main focus
Your counselor will also use Naviance to communicate.
Students will have full access soon, but not need access until 2nd Semester.
We will show students how to login during advisory using their CBSD.org .
Mike Start

20. 10th Gr. Timeline Advisory Winter Info Night (January 2019)
We are checking in with students now
Information is sent out throughout the year
Winter Info Night (January 2019)
Review choosing classes and program planning
Highlight career/college related topics
Review PSAT results, and explain next steps

21. 10th Gr. Timeline Career Plan Career & College Connections
Fully explained and introduced in February
Helps students explore possible career paths
It is difficult for students to start this exploration now, best use of their effort right now is to adjust to high school expectations and environment
Career & College Connections
We will help parents and students start to connect career interests with future plans towards the end of the year.
Post-grad plans are a major focus of 11th grade

22. Standardized Testing Timeline
PSAT- October 13th
$23 paid online-
PSAT – October of 10th / 11th
Nat. Merit Consideration (11th)
PreACT – Spring of 10th
SAT/ACT- Spring of 11th
SAT Subject Tests- as needed
Unofficial list of schools
AP Exams- May each year

23. These scores DO matter, BUT…
There are a growing number of colleges which do not require SAT or ACT scores
“Test Optional” considerations:
An additional essay(s)
Submission of a graded paper
An interview
Your student will have options after high school that are a good fit!
Visit to learn more about “test optional” schools.

24. A Brief Overview of the
10th Grade PSAT

25. What is the PSAT?
The SAT and ACT are used as part of college admissions/merit scholarships for many schools
Exam scores are considered to be a snapshot of where students stand in terms of college preparation
Practice and gain valuable experience for the SAT by taking the PSAT in October during 10th and 11th grades

26. Why not just take the SAT?
Good Opportunity for Practice
CollegeBoard account connected with Khan Academy tutoring, helping students prepare for the official test.
PSAT costs less (a lot less)
PSAT ($23) vs SAT ($64.50 w/ essay)
Student scores are not seen by any colleges; completely used for practice & experience!

27. Oct 13th PSAT Registration
Register online at
Create a free account, or login if you have one
Have your student’s school ID number ready
After login, select “CB West PSAT Registration”
Cost is $23
See your counselor if you have a financial need
Registration closes on October 9th
Space may run out, don’t wait to register!

28. PSAT Content / Detailed Info

29. Next Steps
This presentation can be viewed again by going to the Class of 2021 guidance page.
Plan to attend the Winter Info Night in January.
PSAT on October 13th, PreACT in Spring

30. Questions