End of the 2023-24 School Year
HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELING NEWSLETTER (QUARTER 4)
Here’s How to Finish the School Year Strong
Summer is on the horizon and if you’re like me, you can’t wait to spend time outside in the sun, sleeping past 7 am, and not stressing about school. In these last weeks of school, it can be hard to stay focused. Your mind may constantly be going to all the fun you’re going to have this summer and that’s completely normal. Excitement for summer is real and unavoidable, but here are a few tips that can help you finish your school year strong.
1. Set Goals
Setting goals for yourself both personally and academically will help you stay on track. Whether your goal is to get A's and B's, remediate assessments, or turn in all owed work, make your own goals and try your absolute best to achieve them.
2. Stay Organized
Staying organized will prevent you from losing or forgetting about assignments. Keep track of your assignments, test dates and final projects in a planner or your phone calendar to stay organized.
3. Don’t put off responsibilities
Slacking and procrastinating are just ways of putting off responsibilities. Putting off school-related responsibilities will leave you scrambling and stressed at the last minute. Do what you need to do when you need to do it, and you will be well on your way to finishing strong!
4. Remember what you’ve worked for
It may help to remind yourself of all the hard work you’ve put in this year. One bad performance on a final test or project could undo all of your efforts.
5. Get motivated
It is time to get motivated! Whether you have to bribe yourself with rewards or create penalties for not trying your best, do whatever it takes to stay motivated and beat “summer fever!”
6. Take advantage of the nice weather
As the weather begins to get nicer, you don’t have to stay cooped up inside studying. Get creative by studying and doing homework outside instead!
7. Take a time out
Don’t forget about taking time out of your day to regroup and simply have fun! This will help you stay focused. Giving yourself breaks for fun is good for your sanity and attention span.
8. Adjust your attitude
What is your attitude right now? Are you feeling down? Can you not wait for school to end? Shifting your attitude & outlook to be more positive can make an incredible difference! I'm here in the Counseling Dept. to help :)
9. Take care of yourself
Taking care of yourself by eating well, getting some physical activity and getting the proper amount of sleep will help you remain focused.
10. Focus on the finish line
Visualize your finish line- and your goals- and focus on that. The school year is almost over- you can do it! Start a countdown, and don’t worry- the end is near!
Those days till summer are ticking down, so take your last weeks in school and enjoy them. There is no reason to throw away all of your hard work just because you’ve almost made it to the finish line. Keep putting in the extra effort and you will see those results in the end. You’ve got this. Together, we can finish the year stronger than we started!
Seniors
2024 Senior Exit Survey
It is required that all seniors complete this step. This form is used by the Counseling Department for updating NJSHS's school profile as well as using the provided information for sending final transcripts to colleges (if applicable). Please fill this out by May10th.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VuRP19v3UXnOnvibLi8gRCmLwTJRiEvkTe6fz03Tsvc/edit
Want assistance understanding your Financial Aid Award Letter?
- Understanding your Financial Aid Award Letter
- Need additional assistance, book a one-on-one appointment with Granite Edvance
Scholarships
- Scholarships
- 23-24 NHS Scholarship Classroom
- Local Scholarships- application needs to be completed by April 7th
Planning on working this summer?
- 25 Jobs for HS students- https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/teen-jobs-0617
- The Counseling Dept. also has a Job Opportunities Board; come check it out!
Plan on working full time after high school? https://www.thebalancecareers.com/job-search-tips-for-high-school-students-2060904
Interested in the military?
- Requirements to join the US Military
- Military Contacts & differences regarding each branch
- Want a meeting one-on-one with a recruiter? Let me know and I can set that up.
- Most military branches are here during lunchtime outside of the Main Office the last Wednesdays of the month.
Typing up Loose Ends
- Your school gmail account; shortly after you graduate, your school email will no longer be active. Make sure to save/send (to a personal email) any documents that are important.
- Are you an Advisor for a school club/extracurricular activity? Make sure to pass on important information, documents, dates/times/calendar of club events, etc. to either another responsible student who'll be continuing with the club the following year and/or the staff advisor.
Dual Enrollment Transcripts
- Did you take a course(s) at SST and receive dual enrollment credit? And/or take a college course? You'll need to request your transcript from each college to be sent to the college you are planning on attending.
- Request Transcript(s)
Juniors
- Commitment date Friday, April 5th for SST Programs. Students who do not confirm their acceptance may lose their seat.
- Year 2 Acceptance Confirmation form
Applying to College 101
Tuesday, April 10th at 5:30
Granite Edvance (formerly NHHEAF) will be providing a virtual presentation for students and parents/guardians. Registration required.
- Educate the student and family about the college admission process
- Narrowing your list
- Questions to ask on a college tour
- College essay pointers
- The application timeline
- The basics of financial aid
- Attendees will receive The College Insider
The 2024 NACAC Spring Virtual College Fair will be held on 4/21/24; register here. There are over 180 two and four year colleges that are registered to participate in the program. If you have any questions, please contact NEACAC at admin@neacac.org.
- Opt in to hear directly from colleges and scholarships
Share your interests to find your college match
Planning on a College Visit over the Summer or in the Fall?
6 Steps to Get the Most Out of a Campus Visit
Want to get a jump start on your college essay?
Granite Edvance will be scheduling dates this July and August for College Summer Boot Camps. Dates to be released by before the end of the school year.
Get a jump start on Scholarships!
https://opportunity.collegeboard.org/about/build?SFMC_cid=EM453228-&rid=47039075 and
the breakdown of the College Board's opportunities
SAT Scores
- Most scores will be released on April 14th
- How do I send my SAT scores to college(s)?
- How do I sign up to retake the SAT? SAT Dates and deadlines
Want to 'try out a job' before getting one?
Job Shadowing VS ELO/Internship
- Job Shadowing is an opportunity where you will be exposed to the career and gain first-hand knowledge about the career field you are interested in. Students should have an opportunity to tour a worksite, “shadow” an employee(s), and sometimes will be able to participate in workplace activities. The How & Why.
- Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO)/Internship allows you to gain knowledge and skills through instruction or study outside of the traditional classroom. Please see Mr. Hayes if you are interested in this opportunity. ELO additional info & paperwork.
Sophomores
- Commitment date Friday, April 5th for SST Programs. Students who do not confirm their acceptance may lose their seat.
- Year 1 Acceptance Confirmation form
- Welcome Students Event, May 9th from 6:00-7:00 at SST
Want to touch base with your future SST teacher? Wondering what your specific program's career opportunities may be? Curious what possible dual enrollment credits (ability to earn college credits) you can earn? Look no further!
Early College & Career Planning 101
Wednesday, May 15th at 5:30
Granite Edvance (formerly NHHEAF) will be providing a virtual presentation for students and parents/guardians.
- How and why to explore your students' interests and aptitudes and how these can contribute to your education and career path.
- What are some important steps?
- Maximizing time in high school.
- Introduction to the college application process and financial aid.
Thinking About College?
- You can start planning for college in 10th grade!
- You can also make an appointment with your counselor (me!) to plan out the three years of high school to put you in a good position for when you graduate.
$40,000 Scholarship Opportunity
- Start Now!
- Take the College Quiz
- Add six or more colleges and you're registered!
Curious about what major might fit your academic achievement, aptitude, unique interests and preferences: https://www.mymajors.com/
Another opportunity to practice for the SATs your Junior year!
PSATs prep- https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat/new-sat-tips-planning/new-sat-how-to-prep/a/full-length-psat-nmsqt
Volunteering
This can be a fantastic opportunity for you to get some experience and figure out some things you like (and don’t like). Volunteering can consist of participating in fun activities with senior citizens, city clean up or helping walk dogs and clean kennels at the animal shelter, etc.
Volunteering is unpaid work, but it does allow you new opportunities:
- You can develop your skills or create new ones and possibly receive training.
- Adding to the resume. Colleges look for a well balanced student and rich resume. You are showing you are willing to challenge yourself and be better.
- Building connections: You will meet new people and find people who share the same interests as you, and make new connections.
Freshwo/men
Early College & Career Planning 101
Wednesday, May 15th at 5:30
Granite Edvance (formerly NHHEAF) will be providing a virtual presentation for students and parents/guardians.
- How and why to explore your students' interests and aptitudes and how these can contribute to your education and career path.
- What are some important steps?
- Maximizing time in high school.
- Introduction to the college application process and financial aid.
Big Future
- Start researching colleges, careers and majors at this site. Get an early jump on determining your college criteria and understanding what colleges are looking for in candidates- Big Future
- Explore Careers- See which jobs match your interests and skills.
Thinking About College?
- You can start planning for college in 9th grade!
- You can also make an appointment with your counselor (me!) to plan out the three years of high school to put you in a good position for when you graduate.
You'll be taking the PSATs next year!
PSATs prep- https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat/new-sat-tips-planning/new-sat-how-to-prep/a/full-length-psat-nmsqt
Summer Plans
Depending on what you have planned this summer, think about going to a summer camp, get an internship, a part-time job, or do a job shadow.
Begin to keep a log of involvement in and outside of school. Sports, jobs, clubs, volunteering- all these things will become important as you apply to colleges and scholarships and seek employment.
Also, graduation from high school may seem far off, but you will need to prepare. Colleges look at all four years of academics, not just junior and senior year, so start your freshman year off on the right foot by performing well in your courses. And if you’re heading straight into the workforce, experience and/or an internship will put you ahead of others.
If you’re having difficulty understanding some of the material, don’t be shy and silently struggle – ask your teachers for help. Not only will this improve your grade, it will also help you foster strong relationships with your instructors – something that is important when it comes time to ask for recommendations during the college application process.
Thinking About College?
You can start planning for college in 9th grade!
https://blog.collegeboard.org/how-to-start-planning-for-college-in-9th-grade
AP Exams
AP Exam testing window: May 6–10, 13–17. Students should log into their College Board account to view their test dates and times. The testing location for each exam will be posted April 1st in the Counseling Dept as well as emailed to students. Students can arrive 30 minutes before exam time.
AP Exam Calendar
https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/exam-administration-ordering-scores/exam-dates
4 Step to Take Before the Exam
https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/digital-ap-exams/four-steps-before-test
What to Bring on AP Exam Day
- No. 2 pencils for your multiple-choice answer sheet.
- Pens with BLACK INK for completing areas on the exam booklet covers.
- An acceptable calculator if your AP Exam allows the use of a calculator.
- A watch that does not have internet access, does not beep or make noise, and does not have an alarm.
What to NOT Bring on AP Exam Day
- Electronic equipment including phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, wearable technology, cameras, recording or listening devices, or any other type of electronic or communication device.
- School-owned and school-controlled digital recording devices are allowed only for the AP World Language exams.
- Books, reference guides, notes, compasses, protractors, mechanical pencils, pencils that are not No. 2, correction fluid, dictionaries, highlighters, or colored pencils.
- Scratch paper.
- Watches that beep, make a noise, or have an alarm.
- Computers or calculators that are not approved.
- Reference guides, keyboard maps, or other typing instructions.
- Ear plugs.
- Clothing or shoes with subject-related information.
- Food or drink.
AP Exam Resources & Practice for the Exams
Miscellaneous
- Saturday, May 4th @ SST
- When: 10:00 to 2:00
- Where: Seacoast School of Technology (SST)
Homework Club
2:30pm-3:30pm
- Mrs. Alland (room 218): Tues & Wed
- Mrs. Angelillo (room 218): Mon & Thurs
Tuition Break
- NEBHE’s Tuition Break program, the New England Regional Student Program (RSP), provides significant tuition savings to residents of the six New England states when they enroll at out-of-state public colleges and universities within New England and pursue approved programs.
- Eligibility and Programs
Tuition Exchange
- Does your parent(s) work at a college/university?
- Participating Schools and Applications
Your 2024-25 Course Schedules
Student schedules will be released before you leave for summer break (be on the lookout for an announcement). If you have an issue and/or question with your schedule, please come see me before the last day of school.
Summer School
- Will be strongly recommended that students that did not pass a core course this or a previous school year attend summer school to assist with credit recovery so that all students can be candidates for graduation.
- An announcement will be going out to families and students after semester two grades post.
- Dates and times- TBD
Additional Educational Opportunities
Newmarket Jr/Sr High School affords students multiple opportunities to earn credit outside of the traditional classroom. Please see your School Counselor, Ms. B to explore these opportunities.
Destination College and Paying for College 101
Destination College
What: College Workshops & College Fairs
When: Saturday, April 6th 12:00-5:00
Where: Saint Anselms College Manchester, NH
Register here
Paying for College 101
What: This evening program helps families understand and evaluate financial aid packages. We discuss such issues as reporting outside scholarships, financing options, avoiding scholarship scams, writing special circumstance letters and understanding Award Letters.
When: April 11th, April 17th and May 9th 6:00-8:00
Where: Virtual
Register here
VLACS Deadlines, Requesting a Transcript, Information & Enrollment for 2023-24
Deadlines
- All seniors must be completed with their VLACS course(s) by May 17th.
- Freshwo/men, sophomores and juniors must be completed with their VLACS course(s) by June 7th.
If you do not complete your course by these dates, per NJSHS policy, you will receive an "INC" on your NJSHS transcript. This could affect eligibility for extracurricular activities.
Request VLACS transcript
- It is the student's responsibility upon completion of a VLACS course to request their VLACS transcript be sent to the School Counselor. Without this step, the VLACS course will not appear on the NJSHS transcript.
- Request VLACS Transcript
Academic Snapshot
The academic snapshot is a handy tool that will allow you to monitor your progress. Here, you can view your grades, the number of assignments you have submitted, and your proposed completion date. Using this snapshot, you can help ensure that you are maintaining a consistent pace.
Log into your VLACS account- > click on Enrollments then Snapshot to view your progress.
Thinking about a VLACS course for 2024-25?
- Distance Learning Form- please fill out and return to the Counseling Dept.
- VLACS Enrollment/Support/Resources
Dual Enrollment
**Open to Juniors & Seniors**
What is Dual Enrollment?
Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college classes while they are still enrolled in high school. These classes count for both high school and college credit. High school students who complete dual enrollment classes generally take fewer classes in college and save money on total college costs. (Course schedules & descriptions and forms/contact information)
Why Dual Enrollment?
*Get an affordable jump start to a college credits and career skills
*Transfer credits to many colleges and universities
Two options:
eStart- online classes taught by a college professor
Early College- learning options are in the classroom, remote, online, hybrid, etc.
NHS School Counselor
I'm here to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out! Need additional resources, click here??
Need to book an appointment? Ms. Cetlin is here to help you with that!
Ms. B (grades 9-12)
Email: bissonc@newmarket.k12.nh.us
Website: https://www.newmarket.k12.nh.us/schools/newmarket-jr-sr-high-school/student-parent-resources/guidance/high-school-guidance/index
Location: 213 South Main Street, Newmarket, NH, USA
Phone: (603) 292-7968
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Newmarketjrsrhigh