Counselor Corner

As the first semester of school comes to and end, many students are feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. During the last few weeks of the semester, many have been working tirelessly to complete projects, staying up late to working on assignments, keeping up with extra-curricular activities or part-time jobs, and studying for mid-term final exams. For some students the end of the semester also brings the extra added stress and worry about final grades and the effects these grades have on their GPA.

With less time being put into activities that allow for connection, rest and recharging. The upcoming break will provide both students and educators the opportunity to catch up on some of those things that they have missed out on and provide opportunities to rest, relax and recharge. Students and educators are encouraged to:

Take Care of Basic Needs: Ensure that you body has what it needs to be able to focus and be productive. Eating well, exercise and regular sleep are just a few things that are critical to staying healthy and preventing burnout. Prioritizing your physical wellbeing is essential to maintaining your emotional and mental wellbeing.

Focus on Connections and Friendships: When feeling stressed, focusing on connecting with friends, family and others who are important to you can be very meaningful. Connecting with others can help to center what is important to you.

Focus on Self Care: Find time for activities and hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation. Aim for at least one relaxing activity each day such as taking a short walk, listening to music, reading, journaling or catching up on your favorite tv shows.

Set Personal and Academic Goals for 2025: Take some time before returning to school to set goals that you want to achieve in the next semester. Your goals can be personal or academic. When setting your goals, be specific in what you want to accomplish and make sure that it is something that is attainable in the time that you have. Create an action plan for how you plan to accomplish the goals. Setting goals that are realistic and meaningful can help you maintain focus and motivation.

Challenge Day is coming back to Manvel High School!! During the 2023-2024 school year all 4 comprehensive high school campuses in Alvin ISD had the opportunity to bring the Challenge Day program to its students/staff and community members. Last year's event was a huge success!! Both the student and adult participants were moved to be change makers!! Challenge Day is a day-long , interactive program that provides teens, and adults with tools to tear down walls of separation and inspires participants to live, study and work in an encouraging environment of acceptance love and respect. We are looking forward to another great experience this year.

Challenge Day will be held at Manvel High School on January 23rd and 24th. Students in grades 9th-11th will be invited to participate in one of the two days. Student invitations and parent permission letters will go out the first week in January.

Check out the video clip below of what to expect

Be The Change!!!

October 2024

9th Grade Parent Meeting and Individual 4 year plan meetings with freshman students and parents. The 4-Year Plan meetings kicked off our course selection process for the 2025-2026 school year.

November 2024

Celebrated Generation Texas Week (a week of activities to highlight the importance of higher education). Students participated in daily trivia games, morning announcements and Kahoot games in the cafeteria during all 3 lunch periods.

Senior Scholarship Workshop highlighted the Houston Livestock School and Rodeo Scholarships, the Alvin ISD Local Scholarships and Alvin Community College Scholarships.

"Fall into Wellness" activity for teachers and staff hosted by the MHS Counseling team.

December 2024

Participated in the Magical Maverick Christmas Tree event. (Motivational and Mindful Mavericks Tree)

Student Counseling Office Visits (October - December)

Social Emotional = 175 visits

Academic Plan/Scheduling = 266 visits

Post High School Planning = 42 visits

What's Coming Up?

• January 9, 2025 - Midday Meditation
• Students will learn calming techniques to help with anxiety through meditation activities led by the counseling team during all 3 lunch periods.
• January 15, 2025- FAFSA Workshop
• This will be an opportunity for students and parents to complete the FAFSA application with assistance from representatives with the Alvin Community College Financial Aid Office.
• January 16, 2025 - TSIA School Day Testing
• Students needing to take the TSIA test must register by January 13th.
• January 16, 2025 - Junior Parent Meeting
• Junior parents are invited to join the MHS Counseling Team for an informative meeting.
• January 16, 2025 - Virtual Scholarship Workshop (6:30-7:30)
• Senior parents and students who missed the scholarship workshop in November are invited to participate in a virtual scholarship workshop to learn about the Alvin ISD Local Scholarship program. https://meet.google.com/xge-hnnv-cqm
• January 13th - 29th - Junior Conference Meetings
• Individual meetings scheduled with alpha counselors. Counselor will discuss what is remaining for the students to meet graduation requirements, students will select senior level classes and plan for post-secondary during this meeting. Parents have until December 20th, to schedule to meet with their student. If a meeting with the parent is not scheduled, the counselor will proceed to meet with the student and send the information home.
• January 23rd -24th - Challenge Day
• Students will be invited to participate in this amazing program. Students will be led through energetic activities led by Challenge Day Leaders to inspire them to be the change they wish to see in the world.
• February 7, 2025 - GPA and Rank Updated and Posted in Skyward (11th and 12th grade only)
• February 6th - 11th - 10th Grade Course Registration for 25-26 school year
• 10th grade students will meet with Counselors during their English class to select their classes for the 2025-2026 school year.
• February 20, 2025 - TSIA Testing
• Only students who are FAST eligible, and testing for dual enrollment will be able to register for this administration.
• March 5, 2025 - SAT School Day Testing
• Students classified in 11th grade will take the SAT test during the school day.

Resources

Senior Google Classroom

AISD Scholarship Central

With Kids in Mind Newsletter

All seniors are required to complete either the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) if they are planning to attend a 4 year university, 2-year college or trade school. Students who are planning to enter the workforce or enlist in the military may complete an Opt-Out form to meet this graduation requirement.

Which Form do you need to complete?

Students who are US citizens will complete the FAFSA Form. Students who are non US citizens and have graduated from a Texas high school and have lived in Texas for three years prior to their high school graduation are eligible to apply for aid using the TASFA. Students who are undocumented or non-citizens may also be eligible for aid using the TASFA application.

The 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is now available for students and contributors to complete.

Step 1: Creating a StudentAid.gov Account (FSA ID)

The application process will begin with creating a StudentAID.gov account. Both the student and the contributors (biological or adoptive parent, parent's spouse) will need to create their own accounts. Parents who have previously set up accounts for older siblings, will use the same account information. Students and contributors may not use the same email address and phone number. Students MUST use a personal email address and not their Alvin ISD email. Students will need their Social Security number to create the account, however, your contributors who don't have an SSN can create a StudentAid.gov account to complete their sections of your FAFSA form. (Video Clip - Creating FSA ID)

Step 2: Contributor Information

When you fill out the FAFSA form, you’ll answer questions that will determine who needs to be a contributor on your form. You will need to invite your contributor to complete the FAFSA form

If you’re a dependent student and your parents are married (and not separated) and filed taxes jointly, only one parent will be required to be a contributor on your FAFSA form. If your parents are married and filed taxes separately both must be invited to complete the form. For other circumstances, see the graphic above. To invite your contributor to our FAFSA form, you will be asked to proved their (First and Last Name, Social Security Number if they have one, date of birth, email address and mailing address if they do not have a Social Security Number)

Step 3: Federal Income Tax Return

You and your contributors must provide consent and approval to have your federal tax information transferred directly from the IRS into your FAFSA form. This process is mandatory, even if you and your contributors don't have a Social Security Number, didn't file a tax return, or filed a tax return outside of the US. This process will pull in your 2023 Income Tax information. If your contributor has had a significant change in income (loss of job, etc.), you should still complete the FAFSA form then contact the financial aid office at the school where you plan to attend and request an aid adjustment. The school will ask for more information and documentation of the change in income. School officials can assess your situation and may adjust for FAFSA form if warranted.

Step 4: Records of Your Assets

You and your contributor will be asked questions about your assets and investments, so make sure you have those records on hand. This included the current balances of your cash, checking and savings accounts. The current net worth of your businesses and or investment farms and the current net worth of your investments. Your cash, checking and savings accounts are considered assets , but are not investments.

Step 5: List of Schools You're Interested in Attending

Add any colleges, career schools, or trade schools you're considering, even if you haven't applied or been accepted yet. You can list up to 20 schools on the online FAFSA form. You can always remove a school later if you decide not to apply, but if you wait to add a school, you could miss out on financial aid.

After your FAFSA form is processed, the schools you list on the form will receive your FAFSA results electronically. They will use your FAFSA information to determine the types and amounts of financial aid you may be eligible to receive.

Step 6: Signing and Submitting the FAFSA Form (Student)

After you complete your required section of the FAFSA form online, you acknowledge the terms and conditions of the form and electronically sign your section. You can then submit your section of the FAFSA form. However, your FAFSA form won't be considered complete until all required contributors provide their information on the FAFSA form, give their consent and approval to transfer federal tax information into the form and provide their signatures.

Once you submit your FAFSA form, you'll see a confirmation page that displays your completion date, data release number and next steps. You'll also see your estimated Student Aid Index, estimated Federal Pell Grant eligibility and information about other federal student aid for which you may be eligible. This confirmation page is emailed automatically to you for your records.

Priority Deadline for Texas: February 15, 2025

Your Counselor will need to verify your FAFSA completion to clear you of this graduation requirement. This can be done by emailing a copy of your confirmation of completion email that you receive to your Counselor.

Mr. Sherman Parker (A-Ci), C100 Office Suite

I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a bit about my background in education. I have been in the field for over 20 years, starting my journey as a University Recruiter shortly after graduating from Texas Southern University. This experience ignited my passion for education, leading me to teach and coach at various levels throughout my career. Each role has been incredibly rewarding, but I eventually decided to pursue my dream of becoming a Counselor, which has been a fulfilling transition. Education is my passion, and I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing community. My academic journey includes earning my undergraduate degree from Texas southern University and my Master's Degree in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University. Outside of my professional life, I have a variety of hobbies that keep me engaged and inspired. I love music, spending time outdoors hunting and trying out new recipes in the kitchen. These activities bring joy and balance to my life!

Mrs. Carlene Leal (Os-Se), C200 Office Suite

Mrs. Leal has worked in Alvin ISD for the last 23 years. Her first 7 years were spent teaching 3rd grade. "I loved the classroom, but I wanted to add to my toolbox to help my students grow into happy and healthy people." To do this, she returned to school where she earned a Masters of Science in Counseling. She then moved on to become a Junior High School Counselor for the next 4 years. From Junior High, she has spent the last 12 years as a High School Counselor. She truly enjoys working with students and watching them achieve their goals. Mrs. Leal lives with her husband, 3 dogs and a rescue cat. They have a blended family of 5 children scattered across Texas with 7 beautiful grandchildren that they enjoy spoiling whenever they can! When not at school, she and her husband enjoy building teardrop campers and camping all over Texas and the Southwest United States.

Mrs. Angela Wright (Social Emotional Counselor) - A136

Mrs. Wright has spent 19 years in education, dedicated to helping students thrive. as a proud graduate of Lamar University with a Master's degree in School Counseling. She finds joy in building meaningful connections with students and supporting their growth. When She's not working, she treasures spending time with her three kids and friends, whether it's relaxing at home or exploring new places together on family vacations, the goal is always to make cherished memories along the way!

High School Counselors provide support to students with their educational, career, personal, social and post-secondary goals. As your high school counselors, we are here to guide and support you through every aspect of your high school journey. Whether you're navigating educational choices, exploring career paths, handling personal or social challenges, or preparing for post-secondary plans, we're here to help you succeed. Our goal is to ensure you have the tools and support you need to achieve your goals and make the most of your high school experience. Remember , no matter what challenges you face, we are here to help you find solutions to stay on task.

August 2024

The 2024-2025 school year began by welcoming our newest Mavericks to the campus!! Transition Day introduced the class of 2028 to the Manvel High School campus!! The Counseling team joined administrators and staff in the day of learning and fun activities for our freshman. Counselors kicked off the year with a grade level guidance lesson with all freshman students on graduation requirements and how to plan for a successful high school experience. The guidance lesson was followed up with a MHS Alumni Panel. Graduates of MHS returned to sit on a panel to offer advice and guidance to the class of 2028.

Counselor Corner for lunch began the first week of school. Counselors are available to meet with students in the cafeteria during all three lunch periods on the following days: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Be sure to stop by the table!!

September 2024/October 2024

The first week of September, Counselors visited seniors in their English 4 classrooms to discuss post-secondary planning. On September 18, 2024, we hosted the Senior Information Night/College Fair event. The MHS Counseling team along with our Advanced Academics Specialist Mrs. Root and our Dual Enrollment Advisor Mrs. Thompson lead breakout sessions for parents and students. The mini college fair hosted 20 College and Military recruiters who were eager to assist in guiding students through their college decisions and admissions processes.

In September, Counselors also began Senior Fall Conferences. These are individual meetings with the Counselor to review students progress towards the completion of their graduation requirements as well as discussing their post-secondary plans.

October 2024

Freshman students are up next!! We will be meeting individually with all freshman students and parents to create their 4 year plans.

Student Counseling Office Visits (August - September)

Social Emotional = 163

Academic Plan/Schedule = 262

Post High School Planning = 161

For many students (and their parents) entering high school freshman year, college seems like a lifetime away. Most are simply focused on ensuring a smooth transition from middle school–acclimating to a new campus, getting involved in clubs or sports, and adapting to the more challenging coursework. They assume thoughts of college admissions can wait until at least junior year, at the earliest.

Though the logistics of applying to college–including taking admissions tests, writing essays, requesting letters of recommendation, and applying for financial aid–can wait until junior and senior year, it is critical that students early in high school understand that their choices beginning freshman year can have major impacts on what options are open to them after graduation. Families can help students recognize some key decision points to pay attention to early in high school and understand how they relate to different college options.

College Admissions Requirements vs. High School Graduation Requirements

Many students and families would assume that the requirements needed to graduate high school are the same as those needed to apply and attend a college or university. This, however, is not the case. Many colleges require additional coursework in certain subjects or higher level courses to be taken compared to what is needed for graduation. And, college admissions requirements vary across schools.

Because graduation requirements are the same for all students within a school, counselors frequently share relevant information and ensure that all students are on track to complete them. With the wide variation in requirements between colleges, it is not possible for counselors to update students throughout their four years on whether they are on track to meet the requirements for different opportunities. Students and families can proactively research potential college options early during high school and make sure that their course selections are in alignment.

Taking the SAT & ACT

Requirements for submitting standardized tests as part of college applications have seen major changes over the past four years. Most colleges suspended these requirements during the COVID pandemic when schools closed and students were unable to sit for the tests. Many have brought back the requirement in the past year. Students with hopes to attend college should anticipate that even if schools are currently testing-optional, they could bring back the requirement at any time. And planning to take the SAT or ACT keeps options open–and students can always opt not to share their scores with schools that do not require them.

Making plans during sophomore year for test preparation allows students to spend adequate time studying and preparing for the content. Many students choose to take practice tests to familiarize themselves with the testing format and time constraints. This is especially important with the SAT that has recently gone digital, leaving many students unfamiliar with the testing structure and feel. Planning for testing early allows students to be prepared and take retakes, if necessary, while avoiding crises as senior year nears.

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Truly Being Prepared for College and Career

Beyond just meeting college application requirements, students want to make sure they are truly ready for higher-level coursework and have direction towards a career so they can make the most of their time in college. In order to be ready for college, preparatory coursework like AP, IB, or AICE courses or participate in internships during high school, it is important to ensure they will be able to fit the courses or pathways into their schedules. Participating in many of these opportunities requires certain prerequisites along with strategic scheduling.

During freshman year, students and families can make a multi-year plan for the courses your student hopes to take. This helps all involved understand how courses fit together. Students can revisit this plan during each course selection period to serve as a check on meeting requirements and can adapt the plan based on shifts in goals or areas of interest. Encouraging students during freshman and sophomore year to connect their courses to future goals can help them make thoughtful and informed choices.

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Knowledge is Power

Information is empowering. The more your student knows, the more strategic they can be in their high school decision-making and beyond. Learning about college admissions requirements for a variety of potential colleges during freshman or sophomore year creates a knowledge base that can be incredibly beneficial to future planning. Families can help students understand the different requirements and make decisions that keep options open as they explore interests and passions throughout high school–allowing them to enter senior year with confidence and clarity.

Article from SchoolLinks Weekly Newsletter (September 3, 2024)

October 23, 2024 - Alvin ISD College Fair (11th & 12th Grade students) - JB Hensler Academy (5:30)

October 23, 2024 - TSIA Testing (school-day) - students must register to test

October 24, 2024 - Freshman Parent Meeting (MHS auditorium) - 5:30-6:30

October 28th - November 12th - 9th Grade 4 - Year Planning Meetings (MHS)

November 6, 2024 - Scholarship Night (12th grade) - MHS LGI (5:30-6:30)

November 11th - 15th - Generation Texas Week

December - FAFSA Application Opens

Senior Google Classroom

AISD Scholarship Central

With Kids in Mind Newsletter

Webpage: https://www.alvinisd.net/o/mhs/page/counselors

Twiter: @MavsCounsel

Insta: Manvelcounselors