February: A Month of Growth, Recognition, and Self-Love

February is a time for both reflection and progress. As we move forward in the semester, we encourage students to stay focused, embrace new opportunities, and take time to recognize their own worth and growth. Self-love is essential—remember to celebrate your efforts, big or small, and continue striving toward your goals. For seniors, stay on top of your FAFSA/CADAA applications, with the priority deadline of March 2, 2025, and utilize our financial aid workshops for support.

Join us on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 7 PM for a webinar on navigating the financial side of college! Learn about financial aid, scholarships, and smart strategies to make college more affordable. RSVP at: https://tinyurl.com/AUSDecp0205

This month, we celebrate Career Technical Education (CTE) Month and National School Counseling Week (Feb. 3-7), recognizing the dedication and support of those helping students prepare for their future careers. Additionally, as course registration for the 2025-2026 school year is underway, we encourage all students to explore their options, including dual enrollment and career pathway courses, to unlock their full potential.

Key Dates:

Financial Aid & Scholarships Webinar: Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 7 PM - Open to ALL Grades

Lincoln’s Birthday: Monday, February 10, 2025 - No School
President’s Day: Monday, February 17, 2025 - No School

Every February, the CTE community celebrates CTE Month to raise awareness of the power of Career and Technical Education in preparing students for college and career success. AUSD is proud of its robust CTE program, offering high school students a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests and gain valuable skills in 12 different industry sectors, encompassing 20 distinct pathways. These programs, which vary by high school site, include specialized academies like the Alhambra Health Sciences Academy, the Digital Arts & Technology Academy at San Gabriel High School, the Medical Careers Academy at San Gabriel High School, and the Aspiring Medical Professionals program at Mark Keppel High School.

Our CTE program is supported by our dedicated CTE Advisors, all PPS Credentialed School Counselors with specialized knowledge of CTE pathways and opportunities. They guide students in exploring career options, and connecting with industry professionals. A vital component of our CTE program is student participation in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). CTSOs are co-curricular organizations that provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, compete in industry-related events, and network with peers and professionals.

AUSD boasts award-winning CTSO chapters, including FBLA and SkillsUSA (all high schools), HOSA (San Gabriel High School), and FCCLA (Alhambra High School). Students must be enrolled in a CTE pathway affiliated with the specific CTSO to participate. These organizations offer invaluable experiences that complement classroom learning and prepare students for future careers. Learn more about our CTE programs and CTSOs by visiting www.ausd.us/cte/

Fun Fact: This CTE Logo was created by a Mark Keppel High School/AUSD Alumni. This CTE Logo has been widely used by many CTE Programs across the nation!

Students who complete at least one two-year Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathway with a grade of C or better in both classes will earn a special CTE Completer Honor Cord to wear at graduation! This cord represents your hard work, dedication, and industry-specific skills gained through your pathway. Eligible students will be given the honor cord before graduation.

Join us in celebrating National School Counseling Week (#NSCW25)! This year's theme, "School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive," highlights the invaluable contributions of school counselors to our students' academic, social, and emotional well-being. Our dedicated team of PPS Credentialed School Counselors, which includes our CTE Advisors, are here to support students every step of the way. They provide guidance on academic planning, college and career readiness, and personal development, ensuring students have the resources and support they need to thrive. Let's take this week to express our appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

Our counselors play a crucial role in fostering a positive and supportive school environment. They work tirelessly to address students' individual needs, helping them navigate challenges and develop essential life skills. Whether it's assisting with course selection, providing emotional support, or connecting students with resources, our counselors are committed to empowering students to reach their full potential. Be sure to thank your school counselor during NSCW!

The FAFSA and CADAA applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open! These applications are crucial for seniors planning to attend college, career training, or trade schools and seeking financial aid to cover costs.

• FAFSA: For U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens to access federal and state aid.
• CADAA: For undocumented students meeting AB 540 requirements to access California state aid.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) has announced that students filing a FAFSA or CADAA with a home address in Los Angeles or Ventura County (areas impacted by the Southern California fires) now have a priority deadline of April 2, 2025.

Apply early to maximize your financial aid opportunities! Need assistance? Visit the College & Career Center – we’re here to help! Don’t miss out on resources to support your education!

Alhambra High School

AHS CCC Financial Aid Support during Advisory on 2/4 & 2/26, sign up with Adaptive Scheduler

RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/2025CCAppWorkshop

Mark Keppel High School

For months of February and March will be lunch and PowerTime on Tuesdays. Students may sign up for all sessions on Adaptive Scheduler under "12th Grade Community College & Financial Aid Application Workshop".

San Gabriel High School

Every Wednesday during ME TIME during the month of February. Sign up in Adaptive Scheduler. March will be two times a week.

The Cal Grant is a financial aid program for California students, providing free money for college or career training that doesn’t need to be repaid. It can cover tuition, fees, and sometimes even living expenses at eligible California colleges, universities, and technical schools. Eligibility is based on financial need, GPA, and other requirements.

No Separate Application Required

There is no separate application for the Cal Grant. Once you complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) by April 2, 2025, you’re automatically considered for a Cal Grant. After applying, you’ll need to create a WebGrants for Students account to track your award status, make school changes, and manage your financial aid.

Steps for WebGrants Account

Automatic GPA Submission

Our school automatically submits students' Cal Grant GPA to the California Student Aid Commission during Semester 1 to ensure eligibility for this program. If you or your family chooses not to participate, you must opt out by completing the opt-out form before the deadline.

Why Apply for a Cal Grant?

• Types of Cal Grants:
  • Cal Grant A: For students attending 4-year universities.
  • Cal Grant B: For students with low income starting at community colleges or 4-year schools.
  • Cal Grant C: For students pursuing career or technical education programs.
• Covers tuition, fees, and sometimes additional living costs.

Next Steps

Complete the FAFSA or CADAA by April 2, 2025, to be considered for a Cal Grant.

The following events/presentations, held during the school day, are open to all 9th-12th grade students (unless otherwise specified). See the site-based info below for more details.

Mark your calendars for our upcoming presentations designed to help students explore post-secondary options and navigate the college and career landscape. These sessions will provide valuable insights on career pathways, financial aid, and specialized programs. All presentations will be held from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Zoom.

• 2/5/25 - Financial Aid & Scholarships -
  RSVP at: https://tinyurl.com/AUSDecp0205
  Learn how to navigate the financial side of college with this comprehensive presentation covering the cost of attendance, types of aid, application processes, interpreting financial aid offers, scholarships, and creative ways to save. Gain essential tips and strategies to make college more affordable!
• 3/5/25 - ELAC College Promise, Skill Certificates, Pathway to Law/STEM Summer Bridge/Skills Certificates/AA/AAT/TAG
• RSVP at: https://tinyurl.com/AUSDecp0305
  Learn about ELAC's College Promise, skill certificates, and pathways to Law/STEM, including Summer Bridge programs and transfer options like AA/AAT/TAG.

• Upcoming Presentations:

  • 4/9/25 - College Search - Finding the Right Fit

Scholarships are an incredible opportunity to reduce the financial burden of college, trade school, or career training. Many scholarships reward students for their academic achievements, community involvement, leadership, or future goals, and the funds awarded can make a significant difference in covering tuition, fees, and other expenses. For more scholarships and links to trusted websites, visit our District Scholarship Bulletin.

Alhambra Management Association (AMA) Scholarship 2025
Deadline: February 28, 2025
Award: $800

This scholarship is for graduating seniors at AHS, MKHS, or SGHS who meet the following criteria:

• Interested in a career in teaching or public service
• Proven to be a good citizen planning to continue their education
• Involved in school activities, community service, or extracurricular activities
• Minimum 2.5 GPA

Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized for your contributions and aspirations!

More Info/Application Here

Alhambra Council PTA Scholarship
Deadline: March 1, 2025
Award: $800

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a graduating senior and PTA member
• Submit an online application
• Provide a high school transcript (minimum 2.0 GPA)
• Include a reference form and letter of recommendation
• Answer the personal statement question

Apply now to receive support for your post-high school plans!

More Info/Application Here

Alhambra Latino Association (ALA) 2025 Scholarships

Deadline: Friday, March 14, 2024 (No exceptions)

Apply Here: ALA Scholarship Application

Eligibility:

• Open to AUSD seniors planning to enroll in post-secondary education in Fall 2025
• Must identify as Latinx

Scholarships Available:

• Dora S. Padilla Memorial Arts Scholarship – For students excelling in arts (performing, literary, or visual)
• Brian N. Tatsuno Memorial Career Tech Scholarship – For students pursuing technical careers (e.g., electrical, plumbing, welding)
• EmpowerHER STEM Scholarship – For females planning to pursue a STEM career

Questions: Email: alhambralatinoassociation@gmail.com

Eleanor Barry Memorial Scholarship
Deadline: April 1, 2025
Website: Apply Here

This scholarship is open to students who:

• Reside in Monterey Park or attend a high school in the Montebello, San Gabriel, or Alhambra School District
• Demonstrate financial need
• Plan to attend full-time at an accredited college, university, vocational, technical, or professional school in the U.S.

More Info/Application Here

Our ECP Spring Semester has seen an amazing response, with over 600 students across our three high schools expressing interest in our FREE college credit courses.

Here’s a quick reminder about the schedule:

• Start Date: Tuesday, 2/18/25
• End Date: Friday, 5/23/25
• No Class: Monday to Friday, 3/31-4/4/25 (Spring Break)

For students who signed up, please keep an eye out for a confirmation email about your enrollment by Friday, 2/14/25. Courses will be available on your Canvas portal starting Tuesday, 2/18/25. If you don't see your course, or if you're asked to purchase textbooks/materials, please reach out to your CTE Advisor immediately. For detailed information on asynchronous and synchronous course options and times, refer to our Spring schedule.

Students who complete all 34 units of the General Education (GE) Pathway through our Early College Program (ECP) will earn a General Education Honor Cord to wear at graduation! This achievement signifies your dedication towards completing a full GE pattern, putting you on the fast track toward a college degree. Completing this pathway demonstrates strong academic commitment and college readiness—congratulations on this milestone! Automatically awarded to eligible students within the GE Pathway during their school's Senior Award Night.

Students who complete at least 15 units of college credit at any community college—whether on their own, through our Early College Program (ECP), or a mix of both—will earn a Dual Enrollment Honor Cord for graduation! This cord represents your initiative in taking college-level coursework while still in high school, giving you a head start on your higher education and career goals. Keep pushing forward, and celebrate your achievement in early college success! This cord will be awarded in May of senior year of high school to eligible students who complete the Dual Enrollment Honor Cord Request Form.

This school year, the College & Career Center is excited to offer students the chance to explore a variety of local universities through organized college field trips.

To ensure fair access for all interested students, each student is allowed a maximum of two field trips per school year, due to limited budget and space.

Upcoming Trips:

• Carpenters Union Training Center: February 19, 2025
• LA Trade Tech College: February 27, 2025
• Pasadena City College: March 21, 2025

Sign up for our upcoming Community College Field trips:

• AHS - https://tinyurl.com/AHS25cccfieldtrips
• MKHS - https://tinyurl.com/2025ccfieldtrips
• SGHS - https://tinyurl.com/sg25cccfieldtrips

Important notes:

• Students may not pick up permission slips for friends.
• Spots on the bus are not guaranteed.
• After submitting your permission slip and completing the pre-field trip worksheet (located on the back of the permission slip), it will be reviewed for completion. Notifications about secured bus spots will be sent via student email.
• All students must complete an after field trip worksheet to assess their learning and reflections from the experience. This assignment will help us understand how the trip impacted their perceptions of college life and their career aspirations. It will also allow students to articulate key takeaways and insights gained during the visit, ensuring that they can apply what they've learned to their future educational and career decisions.

Past Field Trips this 24-25 School Year:

• Azusa Pacific University
• California State University, Fullerton
• Citrus College
• UC Riverside
• Cal Poly Pomona
• California State University, Los Angeles

9th-graders

• College App & Admissions Timeline: These resources and calendar will help you stay on track.

• Values Exercise (video): Spend some time thinking about your core values with this simple exercise. Your answers may help drive how you spend this upcoming summer.

10th-graders

• Virtual college fairs : There are many opportunities to attend college fairs from home, including sessions that focus on STEM programs and the visual and performing arts. These easy-to-attend virtual events can be a great window into what college is all about.

• YouScience aptitudes test: If you haven’t already, take this online assessment, which uses a combination of personality, interest, and aptitudes testing to help you explore careers that might be a good fit. Then see if you can connect with someone working in the field for an informational interview or job shadowing opportunity.

• Identify a summer program: Browse through options for day programs, residential programs, and online options that match an interest you might like to pursue.

11th-graders

• Virtual college fairs: There are many opportunities to attend college fairs from home, including sessions that focus on STEM programs and the visual and performing arts. These easy-to-attend virtual events can be a great window into what college is all about.

• Start looking out for fly-in program opportunities: These subsidized travel programs offer overnight campus visits for populations traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

• QuestBridge College Prep Scholars: See if you qualify to apply for this top-notch college admission support program.

• Pre-work for your teacher recommendations: Take a look at this form and imagine how your teacher(s) might fill it out. What are your strengths/areas for improvement? What words will come to their mind when they think of you? You’ll request teacher recs in May, so this is a good time to start thinking about these important pieces of the college application process.

• 5 Ways to Spend Your High School Summer: Think about your summer in the context of how your choices can help you to lead a happier life (really!).

12th-graders

• Senioritis: This is not the time to slack off. Colleges will see your final transcript this summer, and they do have the right to rescind (i.e., take back) their offer of admission if your spring grades drop significantly (gulp).

• Admitted student events: If possible, attend in-person and virtual events for admitted students to get your questions answered and help inform your decision-making process.

Scholarships: Search for possible fits based on your academic interests, gender, religion, and more.

Resources:

• Scholarships: Fastweb
• FAFSA Help: Federal Student Aid

CTE Advisor (Roving)
Jose Cervantes

jimenez_jose@ausd.us

CLICK here to book an appointment with Mr. Cervantes

Servicing all 3 high schools:

AHS - Monday/Thursday

MKHS - Tuesday/Friday

SGHS - Wednesday