We invite you to read the School Counseling Department's monthly newsletter, sharing activities, events, and helpful resources that support our students' success and well-being!

Please refer to our school's website for more detailed information.

Sharon Genicoff x7613 shagen@bergen.org

Culinology (Grade 10)

Digital Media

Law and Justice

Monet Kendall x7705 monken@bergen.org

Automotive Engineering Design

Aerospace Engineering

Culinology (Grade 12)

Cynthia Mak x7713 cynmak@bergen.org

Commercial Art

Fashion

Culinology (Grade 11)

Carlos Pena x7607 carpen@bergen.org

Computer Science

Culinology (Grade 9)

Strategic Assets Management

As 11th grade students begin to approach their junior year's second semester, it’s the ideal time to start preparing for the college admissions process. To help guide students and families through this important stage, we are offering 1:1 virtual meetings with your student's school counselor. These meetings are designed for both parents and students to attend together and will provide valuable insights into navigating the college process, creating a balanced college list, and understanding what steps to take next.

Why This Meeting is Important:

1. Early College Planning: The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming, and the 11th grade is a pivotal time to start organizing the steps needed to apply to colleges. During these meetings, we’ll help families understand the key components of the application process, including standardized testing, extracurriculars, and essays.

2. Developing a College List: One of the most critical aspects of the college admissions process is creating a thoughtful, well-balanced college list. Our counselors will work with students and parents to identify schools that match the student's academic interests, career goals, extracurricular activities, and personal preferences. This helps ensure that the student is considering a range of options that are both aspirational and realistic.

3. Personalized Guidance: Each student is unique, with different strengths, interests, and needs. These 1:1 meetings allow for personalized advice that takes into account the student’s academic achievements, social preferences, and future aspirations. Counselors will also help clarify any questions parents may have and ensure they are well-informed throughout the process.

4. Action Plan: By the end of the meeting, families will have a clear, actionable plan outlining the next steps in the college application process. This may include setting academic goals, exploring test preparation options, and determining important deadlines for upcoming activities.

Meeting Details:

• Timing: Meetings will be scheduled via Zoom between January and March, 2025 and will last approximately 45 minutes. Meetings can take place during a student’s technical area period, lunch period, or study hall.
  
• How to Schedule: Please schedule your 1:1 meeting with your student's school counselor using the link below to select a time that works for you.

Mrs. Genicoff: https://calendar.app.google/NAJHrnFx8W1aYXqi6

Mr. Pena: https://calendar.app.google/6hDKMVHWME6Br3LN6

Ms. Mak: https://calendar.app.google/6D3zeBfEiZ86Eqf86

Ms. Kendall :https://calendar.app.google/yUjQSJbEpAatWhXk8

We encourage you to attend this meeting as a family, as it provides a comprehensive overview of how to successfully navigate the college admissions process and sets the stage for a successful senior year. Please review this Class of 2026 College Handbook prior to the meeting. The College Handbook also provides each school counselor's meeting zoom link.

Were you unable to attend the FAFSA webinar we hosted on 11/21/24? If so, watch the recording. Please note this session is for 12th grade families as it discussed the FAFSA for the 25-26 school year.

Follow these steps to request a Bergen Tech peer tutor.

All Dual Enrollment questions can be directed to Mr. Pena carpen@bergen.org. More information about how to register to receive dual enrollment course credit can be found here.

Looking for community service? Join our GetConnected group to volunteer in our community!

For more information about community service follow this link. Students should submit community service hours through the online submission form.

Students in the Class of 2025 are required to complete at least 40 hours of community service in order to graduate. Students in the Class of 2026 and beyond are required to complete at least 60 hours of community service in order to graduate.

If you are in need of working papers, please follow this link for instructions and the required form.