Department of Guidance & Counseling ______
The Socorro Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs, activities or employment. SISD adheres to all Title VI Regulations prohibiting discrimination, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the foregoing: Juan I. Martinez, Chief Human Resources Officer; 12440 Rojas Drive, El Paso Texas 79928; (915) 937-0223.
El Distrito Escolar de Socorro no discrimina personas en sus programas, actividades y empleo por motivo de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, discapacidad, o edad. El Distrito de Socorro cumple con todas las reglamentaciones de Título VI que prohiben discriminación, el Acto de 1967 que prohibe discriminación por motivo de edad, enmendado, y la Sección 504 del Acto de Rehabilitación y el Acto de los Americanos con Discapacidades. La siguiente persona queda designada para tratar asuntos y preguntas relacionadas a lo anterior: Juan I. Martinez, Jefe de Relaciones Laborales; 12440 Rojas Drive, El Paso Texas 79928; (915) 937-0223.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 1
Sophomore Guide ______
______Print Student’s Name School
I acknowledge that I received the Sophomore Guide. This guide contains valuable information that will help me plan my three years of high school and my postsecondary options.
______Student’s Signature Date
______2 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling
Department of Guidance & Counseling ______
Dr. Xavier De La Torre Superintendent of Schools
Holly Fields Assistant Superintendent 21st Century Learning
Cynthia Lopez Assistant Superintendent Secondary Education
Rebecca O’Neill Assistant Superintendent Elementary Education
Patrick O’Neill Assistant Superintendent Administrative Services
Thomas Eyeington Assistant Superintendent Operational Services
Tony Reza Chief Financial Officer
Juan Martinez Chief Human Resources Officer
Tammi Mackeben Interim Coordinator Guidance & Counseling
Acknowledgements Sophomore Guide Committee Socorro High School, Lucy Caballero Options High School, Sonia Ugarte-Gil KEYS Academy, Rosie Sandoval Phil Thornbery, Montwood High School Hilda Lopez, Director of Guidance & Counseling
Revisions May 2011 Carol Hambric, Counselor on Special Assignment Sylvia M. Cox, Counselor, America High School Ralph Farmer, Counselor, Socorro High School Marianne Kane, Counselor, Eastlake High School Cristina Rodriguez, Counselor, Americas High School Tammi Mackeben, Interim Coordinator Guidance & Counseling Gabriela Warren, Graphic Artist
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 3
Dear Sophomores,
This year you will be faced with many difficult and exciting decisions about your future. Determining what to do after high school is not an easy task. There are many choices and opportunities to consider, or a combination of these options; such as employment, college, special training schools, or military service.
This Keep on Track Guide has been prepared to assist you in selecting and gaining admission to college, vocational training, or other career opportunities after graduation. Financial aid resources and testing information are also provided.
Read this booklet carefully and use the Timetable and Checklist as guides for your planning. Additional information will be made available through announcements, newsletters, the SISD web site and class visitations throughout the year.
We would like to thank the Socorro ISD high school counselors for the many hours spent in developing this guide. This guide is a testament to their commitment to helping students plan and prepare for life after high school. If you need further information or have questions, please contact your counselor. They are highly skilled professionals willing to assist you.
Remember…your future cannot be left to chance.
Sincerely
David Peña Ramon Aguilar Angelica Ramsey Principal Principal Principal Americas High School Options High School Eastlake High School
Miguel Serrano Rosa Mireles-Menchaca Principal Principal Socorro High School Montwood High School
Nora Paugh Ellen Brewer Principal Principal El Dorado High School Keys Academy
Troy T. Byrne Dr. Armando Aguirre Principal Principal El Dorado 9th Grade Academy Mission Early College
______4 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Table of Contents ______
Counselor Contact Information ...... 6 Questions to Ask My Counselor… ...... 7 Sophomore Calendar ...... 8 What’s Is Available in Your Counselor’s Office ...... 10 Academic Development ...... 11 What is Required of All High School Students?...... 11 Graduation Requirements ...... 12 Pre-AP/AP Classes ...... 16 Dual Credit Classes… ...... 17 Pre-IB/IB Courses ...... 18 Articulated Courses……...... 19 Available Academic Tests ...... 19 Credit By Exam/PSAT ...... 19 TAKS ...... 20 Accuplacer ...... 20 SAT/ACT………………………………………………………………………… ...... 20 AP/IB Tests ...... 21 Are You In The Top 10%? ...... 22 Planning for College Costs ...... 22 Academic Scholarships ...... 23 Financial Aid Opportunities in Texas ...... 25 Career Development ...... 26 Careers ...... 26 Steps to a Career Direction ...... 27 How Will I Know What Career is Right for Me? ...... 27 Successful Career Tips ...... 28 How to Use School to Plan Your Career ...... 29 Career Cruising ...... 30 Military Career Services ...... 31 What is Achieve Texas? ...... 31 16 Career Clusters ...... 32 Goals to Achieve Texas ...... 34 Resume-How to Write One ...... 35 Resume or Personal Data Sheet ...... 36 Failing a Class? ...... 39 Personal/Social Development ...... 40 What To Do If You’re Being Bullied ...... 40 Cyberbullying………………...... 40 Love Shouldn’t Hurt ...... 41 Ways To Say No To Drugs ...... 42 Harassment…………………...... 43 Making Friends...... 44 Frequently Asked Questions ...... 48 Surfing the Net for Your Future ...... 52
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 5 SISD High School Counselors 2011-2012 ______Americas High School 937-2800 Sylvia Cox [email protected] 937-2849 Claudia Butler [email protected] 937-2843 Nick Carey [email protected] 937-2844 Josie Porras [email protected] 937-2840 Cristina Rodriguez [email protected] 937-2842 Sandra Rodriguez [email protected] 937-2841 Arturo Escajeda [email protected] 937-2935
Eastlake High School 937-3600 Marianne Kane [email protected] 937-3631 Charlie Garcia [email protected] 937-3637
El Dorado High School 937-3200 Lucy Caballero [email protected] 937-3439 Alicia O’Quinn [email protected] 937-3230 Mary Golden [email protected] 937-3228 Sylvia Gonzalez [email protected] 937-3229 Martin Sanchez [email protected] 937-3312 Sylvia Marti [email protected] 937-3309 Sonia Ugarte-Gil [email protected] 937-3424
El Dorado Ninth Grade Academy 937-9400 Diana Enriquez [email protected] 937-9433 Karina Cataldi [email protected] 937-9436
Montwood High School 937-2400 Elizabeth Figueroa [email protected] 937-2444 Mark Joosse [email protected] 937-2447 Feliza Galindo-Insurriaga [email protected] 937-2448 Alice Gardea [email protected] 937-2445 Gabriela Shimshock [email protected] 937-2449 Victoria Orozco [email protected] 937-2443 Aidee Sanchez [email protected] 937-2446 Mario Holguin [email protected] 937-2486
Mission Early College High School 937-1200 Humberto Miranda [email protected] 937-1209
Options High School 937-1300 Mohammed Shirazi [email protected] 937-1315 Christina Nolasco [email protected] 937-1317
KEYS Academy 937-4000 James Prochnow [email protected] 937-4010
Socorro High School 937-2000 Mary Parazo [email protected] 937-2042 Ralph Farmer [email protected] 937-2035 Patrick Pufal [email protected] 937-2015 Rosemary Diaz [email protected] 937-2031 Angie Ramirez [email protected] 937-2053 Erika Gonzalez [email protected] 937-2038 Lizeth Pinon [email protected] 937-2169
______6 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling
Questions to Ask My Counselor ______
My G.P.A. is ______.
My class rank is ______.
Currently, I have ______credits.
Do I have any loss of credit (LOC)? ______.
Pre-Registration - Courses I plan to take next year: ______
______
______
______
Other:
______.
______.
______.
______.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 7 Sophomore Calendar ______
July 2011 o Registration. o Check your schedules. Questions? See your counselor. o Explore all the extracurricular offerings at your high school. August 2011 o First day of classes. o Don’t lose credit! Attend all of your classes, and study hard. o Be active! Join clubs, sports and activities that you enjoy. o Continue building your resume and explore career options. o Progress reports issued. Seek help from school resources if needed. o Attend the SISD Preparing for College Forum. o Continue with your community service/volunteerism, and document it in your log. September 2011 o Visit with school counselor. o Familiarize yourself with possible college choices. o Progress reports issued. o Register at home campus for the PSAT. o Attend the Socorro ISD State Collegiate Forum to meet with representatives from various colleges and universities in Texas. o Attend the Socorro ISD National Collegiate Forum to meet with representatives from various colleges and universities throughout the nation. o Parents and students are invited to attend Open House to pick up report card and meet with teachers and counselors. (September or Oct.) October 2011 o Report cards issued. Parents and students are invited to attend Open House to pick up report card and meet with teachers and counselors. o Read PSAT Student Bulletin. Take the practice test and score it. o Take PSAT--Wed., Oct. 12, 2011 or Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 o Progress reports issued. o Beginning of 2nd nine weeks grading period. Continue to work hard and ask for help when needed. November 2011 o Career/College Exploration Month. o Progress reports issued. o Attend Socorro ISD Regional Collegiate Forum to meet with representatives from various colleges and universities in the region. Explore career and college opportunities through the following means: o Visit your school and/or local library or College/Go Center and do an interest inventory online. o Visit El Paso Community College Career Center. o Attend the Socorro ISD College Fair. o Involve your parents or guardians in your career and college choices. o Become familiar with general entrance requirements for colleges and universities. o Explore Internet websites recommended in this guide. o Job Shadow: explore your career interest by volunteering at sites that have careers that interest you.
______8 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling December 2011 o Review your PSAT scores. o This is the end of your first semester. o If you have not done so, get involved in activities; such as joining a club, athletic team or become actively involved in your class activities. Work towards leadership positions. o Continue with your community service/volunteerism. January 2012 o Report card with first semester grades issued. o Beginning of 2nd semester. This is an opportunity for a fresh start. Work hard. o End of 3 week grading period. Look for progress report. o Use your report card to update your audit sheet. o If you lost credit due to attendance go to the attendance office for credit redemption procedures. February 2012 o Continue the college search. What colleges are best for your career interest? o Visit some college or universities either personally or online. o Look for progress report. o Attend the Socorro ISD Military Academy Collegiate Forum to meet with representatives from the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. March 2012 o Begin learning the SAT most frequently used word list. o Read. Read. Read. Studies have shown that reading is the single most important factor that will significantly increase ACT/SAT scores. o Beginning of 4th nine weeks grading period. Continue working hard. April 2012 o 3rd nine weeks report cards issued. o Develop a preliminary list of colleges that interest you and write to them for information. o Plan visits to colleges that interest you or have a focus on your career goals. o Work on your writing skills, and update your portfolio and resume. o Progress reports issued. o Attend the Socorro ISD Alumni Collegiate Forum to meet representatives from various colleges and universities. May 2012 o Investigate summer school opportunities. o Set up volunteer/internship community service for the summer. o Make a profile of colleges that interest you – use resources included in this guide. o Study for exams. o Begin to study for the SAT/ACT. June 2012 o Use report card to update your audit sheet. o If you lost credit due to attendance go to the attendance office for credit redemption procedures. o Read. Read. Read. Explore career and college opportunities through the following means: o Visit your school and/or local library or College/Career Center. o Visit the El Paso Community College Career Center. o Involve your parents or guardian in your career and college choices. o Become familiar with general entrance requirements. o Explore Internet websites recommended in this guide. o Job Shadow: explore your career interest by volunteering at sites that have careers that interest you.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 9
What’s available in your counselor’s office ______
• Assistance with enrollment and withdrawal • Career information • College catalogs • College test applications (SAT, ACT, College Placement Exams, Accuplacer) • Computer program for career and college research • Credit by Exams • Credits and requirements • Dual Credit Information • Emotional support • Fee Waivers • Go Centers (College/Career Centers) • GPA and rank in class • Group Counseling • Individual Counseling • Scholarship and financial aid information • Section 504 Information • Special education information • TAKS information & STAAR State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness & EOC End-of-Course Assessments • Testing information (PSAT, AP, ASVAB)
______10 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Academic Development ______
"We can chart our future clearly and wisely only when we know the track which has led to the present." — Adlai E. Stevenson
What is required of all high school students? The Ultimate Goal: GRADUATION
What is a credit? Credits are points earned toward graduation. You need 26 credits in specific courses to graduate.
What is a local credit? Local credits do not count towards graduation under the recommended or distinguished plan except under very special circumstances. Check with your counselor.
How do you earn credits? • Pass your classes with a grade of 70 and above, and • Satisfy attendance requirements – you must attend class 90% of the time.
How do you lose credit? • Absences - On the 6th absence you lose credit whether the absences are excused or unexcused. • Grades - You earn a grade of less than a 70 in a class.
How do you regain credit(s)? • Parents must call the assistant principal in charge of attendance to obtain information on how you might regain credit lost due to attendance. • Please check with your high school for opportunities to regain credit. • Credit Averaging – If you fail either semester A or B of any class and the average of both semesters is a 70 or better you will receive credit for the class if you have also met the attendance requirements.
1st Semester 2nd Semester Semester Average Credit Earned 66 74 70 1
High School Academic Information What are the 2 graduation plans? Students must graduate under one of the following two possible graduation plans: • Recommended High School Program • Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP)
The recommended and distinguished plans are college preparatory plans. Some colleges require students to complete these plans for admission. Some grants also require that students complete either the recommended or distinguished plan. Colleges set their own admission requirements; therefore, it is imperative that you consult college catalogs for individual admission requirements.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 11 What is a Transcript? It is a record of classes taken, grades earned, credits granted. The transcript includes (GPA) Grade Point Average and class rank.
Where do I get a Transcript? From the Transcript Clerk at your high school. Sometimes there might be a nominal fee and a 24 hour wait.
What is your grade classification? Grade Level promotion in grades 9 through 12 shall be determined by the number of credits earned.
Grade Level Required Credits Grade 9 0-5.5 Grade 10 6-11.5 Grade 11 12-17.5 Grade 12 18 or more
Graduation Requirements ______
Courses Recommended Distinguished Achievement English 4 4 Mathematics 4 4 Science 4 4 Social Studies 3.5 3.5 Economics .5 .5 Languages Other Than English 2 3 Physical Education 1.5 1.5 Health .5 .5 Speech .5 .5 (Communication Applications) Technology Applications 1 1 Fine Arts 1 1 Electives 3.5 2.5 Total 26 26
______12 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Distinguished Achievement Recommended Plan 26 Credits Required 26 Credits Required English Language Arts 4.0 English Language Arts 4.0 English I, II, III & IV English I, II, III & IV Immigrant students with limited Immigrant students with limited English proficiency may substitute English I and II English proficiency may substitute for Speakers of Other Languages for for Speakers of Other Languages for English I and II. English I and II.
Math 4.0 Math 4.0 Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and a fourth Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and math course for which Algebra II is a fourth math course. prerequisite.
Science 4.0 Science 4.0 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, plus an Biology, Chemistry, Physics, plus an additional lab-based course. additional lab-based.
Social Studies 3.5 Social Studies 3.5 World History Studies (1.0) World History Studies (1.0) World Geography Studies (1.0) World Geography Studies (1.0) U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (1.0) U.S. History Studies Since U.S. Government (0.5) Reconstruction (1.0) U.S. Government (0.5) Economics 0.5 Economics 0.5
Physical Education 1.5 Physical Education 1.5 to include: to include: Foundations of Personal Fitness (1.0) Limit 2 credits Foundations of Personal Fitness (0.5). Can substitute : drill team, marching band (Limit 2.0 credits) Can substitute: drill cheerleading, ROTC, athletics, Dance 1-IV, team, marching band, approved private programs, or certain career cheerleading, ROTC, athletics, and technology education courses Dance I-IV, approved private prog. or certain career and technology education courses
Languages other than English 3.0 Languages other than English 2.0 Any three levels in the same language. Any two levels in the same language.
Health Education 0.5 Health Education 0.5 or or Health Science Technology (1.0) Health Science Technology (1.0)
Technology Applications 1.0 Technology Applications 1.0 Fine Arts 1.0 Fine Arts 1.0 Speech 0.5 Speech 0.5 Additional Components 2.5 Additional Components 3.5 (elective courses) from: (elective courses) from: - the list of courses approved by - the list of courses approved by the State Board of Education the State Board of Education for Grades 9-12 (relating to Essential Education for Grades 9-12 (relating Knowledge and Skills), Essential Knowledge and Skills), - state-approved innovative courses, - state-approved innovative courses, - JROTC (1.0 to 4.0 credits) or - JROTC (1.0 to 4.0 credits), or - Driver Education (0.5) - Driver Education (0.5) TOTAL CREDITS 26.0 TOTAL CREDITS 26.0 Advanced Measures: Students must complete four *Integrated Physics and Chemistry Advanced measures as designated will satisfy one of the Lab-science in the DAP graduation plan. requirements through 2011-12.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 13
Sample Audit Card ______
Use this form to post your semester grades and to track your credits for your four years in high school. This will help you plan each year’s schedule.
Name: ______
All subjects must be passed.
Credits Earned: 9th 10th 11th 12th
I will graduate under the following plan: ❏ Recommended ❏ Distinguished
Language Arts (4) 1 2 P.E./Equivalent (1 ) 1 2 English I English 2 English 3 English 4 Professional Communication 1 2 or Communication Mathematics (4) 1 2 Applications (.5) Algebra 1 Speech Geometry Fine Arts (1) 1 2 Algebra 2
4th year Math
Foreign Language (2)or (3) 1 2
Science (4) 1 2
Biology Chemistry Physics
4th year Science Required Elective 1 2 Technology (1.0) Social Studies (4) 1 2 P.E. (.5) World History Health (.5) World Geography
U.S. History Electives 1 2 Government/Economics
______14 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling
These are the STAAR - End of Course Exams I need to pass while in high school: English I English II English III Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Biology Chemistry Physics/Principles of Tech. World Geography World History U.S. History
Write down your career interests and start planning ahead. Take courses that will help you achieve your goals.
Careers I am considering?
Grade Career Choice 9
10
11
12
Colleges I am considering?
Grade Career Choice 9
10
11
12
The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) will provide additional opportunities and options for Socorro Independent School District students through online courses. The TxVSN provides courses to supplement our instructional programs. Through regular review of student needs, schools may determine that TxVSN courses provide useful instructional options. A student requests courses, the district-designated TxVSN Site Coordinator reviews and approves course selection. This system of checks and balances allows the school district to have an active role in the acquisition of the TxVSN courses.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 15 Pre-AP and AP Courses ______
Pre-AP Overview Pre-Advanced Placement courses are intended to ensure that middle and high school students are taught the skills, concepts, and habits of mind needed to succeed in college. In Pre-AP courses
• Students are consistently being challenged to expand their knowledge and skills to the next level.
• The curriculum and instruction is designed to impart higher learning and deeper understanding of curricular content.
• Pre-AP high school level courses are weighted courses.
AP Program Overview
• The Advanced Placement Program (AP) allows students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school.
• Most of the nation’s colleges and universities, as well as post-secondary institutions in 24 countries, have AP policies that grant incoming students credit, placement or both for qualifying AP Exam grades.
Benefits of the AP Program
• Students get a head start on the work they will encounter in college.
• Colleges admit students prepared to tackle rigorous coursework.
• Studies have shown that AP students are more likely to maintain a high grade point average and graduate from college with honors than their college classmates of similar ability.
• Students should inquire with the college or university they are planning to attend as to what scores are required on specific tests for college credit.
• AP courses are weighted courses. Students must score a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam to get all weighted points.
______16 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling
Dual Credit Classes ______
Students can receive both high school credit and college credit for the courses they take in high school labeled Dual Credit.
To be eligible for Dual credit, students must meet the following El Paso Community College Early Admission requirements:
• Be a high school Junior or Senior.
• Complete Admissions Application.
• Submit current high school transcript (include TAKS, STAAR, SAT or ACT scores).
• Submit Early Admission Form signed by student, parent, and high school principal.
• Earn and submit an acceptable score on the Accuplacer.
• Attend the New Student Orientation.
Benefits
• Students receive college credit while in high school.
• Tuition and Fees are waived for Dual credit courses
• Dual credit courses are weighted courses, and vary from campus to campus.
• For more information please contact EPCC, the Office of Recruitment and School Relations at 831-2575 or see your school counselor.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 17 Pre IB & IB Courses ______
El Dorado High School The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
What is International Baccalaureate Program (IBO)? • An internationally recognized program noted for its depth and challenging curriculum. • A rigorous pre-university program leading to assessment in six subject areas. • A high quality curriculum that aims to encourage critical thinking by the study of traditional disciplines while encouraging an international perspective. • A curriculum which emphasizes educating the whole person.
Why is IB a good choice? • IB is the single best college preparatory program IN THE WORLD. • IB students have access to a curriculum that is international in scope and assessment. They will be able to compete with any student, anywhere. • IB students have access to genuine, real-world assessments and are held to international standards. El Dorado teachers and curriculum will get our students there! • IB will assist students in getting into the top universities in the country and around the world. • Students who complete an IB diploma will enter any public Texas college or university with 24 college hours as long as they have passed each exam with a score of 4 or higher.
Benefits of the International Baccalaureate Program • Most of the nation’s colleges and universities, as well as colleges and universities in 103 countries, have policies to grant IB student’s credits for their work. • Students get a head start on the work they will confront in college. Colleges admit students prepared to tackle rigorous coursework. • Studies have shown that IB students are more likely to maintain a high grade point average and graduate from college with honors compared to their college classmates of similar ability. • IB courses are weighted courses. • Socorro ISD students attending a school other than El Dorado may request an IB transfer.
______18 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Articulated Courses ______
Many of the courses offered in Career and Technical Education are identified as “articulated”. Articulation is one way through which Texas Community Colleges grant college credit for those courses taken in high school. Credit is granted because the high school courses are rigorous and the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for the high school course is matched up with the required elements being taught through the college course. To qualify, the students must achieve a minimum of 85% on the coursework and must have been in attendance at a 90%+. To receive the articulated credit, the student must enroll at the articulating institution such as El Paso Community College or Western Technical College; sign up for a minimum of two courses and request their articulated courses within fifteen months after high school graduation. Through articulation, the course without grades will be added to the students transcript once approved. Not all CTE coherent sequence of courses are offered at all campuses. CHECK with your counselor for Articulation opportunities.
Available Academic Tests These are the tests that you will possibly take during your high school career: • Credit by Exam • PLAN • PSAT • STAAR (EOC) • Accuplacer • SAT • ACT • AP/IB Tests
Credit by Exam Students may take a Credit by Exam to demonstrate mastery in an academic course in high school. These exams assess student’s mastery of the essential knowledge and skills. When taking an examination to earn credit for a failed course, a student must have received a grade of at least 50 in the course failed and earn at least a 70 on the exam. A student taking a credit by exam for advancement purposes (no prior instruction) must earn at least a 90 on the exam.
PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test) Wednesday, October 12, 2011 & Saturday, October 15, 2011
• The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test is a two hour version of the three hour SAT I that is given to juniors to determine National Merit Scholars. However, you are encouraged to take the PSAT as a Sophomore. • Registration is through your school. The test is given once a year, see schedule above; usually around the third week of October and during the school day. • If you are college bound, and hoping for a scholarship, you certainly want to take the PSAT in October of your junior year. This is the test that three major scholarship programs – National Merit Scholarships, National Achievement Awards for Outstanding Negro students, and National Hispanic Scholars Recognition – use to determine scholarship winners. • Your test booklet can be a valuable asset as you study and review the questions that give you the most difficulty.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 19 TAKS Texas Assessments of Knowledge and Skills ______
Mark your calendars. Testing Dates: October 18th thru 21st, 2011 March 5th thru 9th, 2012 April 23rd thru 28th,2012
Accuplacer El Paso Community College (EPCC) and the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) both use the ACCUPLACER Tests for determining course placement at each institution. Qualifying scores on the ACT, SAT, PSAT, PLAN or TAKS can also be used for determining course placements. The tests are also used to meet the college readiness testing requirements for the Texas Success Initiative.
The ACCUPLACER Tests are college placement tests developed by The College Board (the same company that provides the SAT). The ACCUPLACER Tests are designed to provide information about your academic skill levels in reading, writing, and math. Test scores are used by the counselor and student to select the most appropriate level of courses to enroll in at EPCC and UTEP.
Accuplacer: Placement Exam is required prior to enrollment in any dual credit course.
AP and IB Exams Advanced Placement (AP) exams are taken voluntarily at the conclusion of each AP course. AP exams may translate to college credits. Students should inquire with the college or university they are planning to attend as to what scores they require on specific tests for college credit.
International Baccalaureate (IB) exams are taken at the conclusion of each course. These exams are a mandatory part of the IB Program. Students who complete an IB diploma will enter any public Texas college or university with a minimum of 24 college hours as long as they have passed each exam with a score of 4 or higher.
SAT Exam The SAT is a standardized test that colleges use to evaluate candidates. The test measures a student's ability to understand and process elements of mathematical and verbal reasoning. SAT scores are calculated based on a student's performance relative to other test-takers, and have proven to be an indicator of collegiate success.
______20 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling
The SAT consists of ten sections:
• 3 writing sections—one 25 minute student-written essay, one 25 minute grammar section and one 10 minute grammar section
• 3 math sections—two 25 minute sections and one 20 minute section
• 3 critical reading sections—two 25 minute sections and one 20 minute section
• 1 "experimental" section—an additional 25 minute section (unscored)
There are short breaks every hour.
ACT Exam The ACT (No Writing) consists of four multiple-choice tests: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The ACT Plus Writing includes the four multiple-choice tests and a Writing Test.
Test Content English 75 questions 45 minutes Measures standard written English and rhetorical skills. Mathematics 60 questions 60 minutes Measures mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses taken up to the beginning of grade 12. Reading 40 questions 35 minutes Measures reading comprehension. Science 40 questions 35 minutes Measures the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in the natural sciences. Optional Writing 1 prompt 30 minutes Measures writing skills emphasized in high Test school English classes and in entry-level college composition courses.
AP/IB Tests
• Advanced Placement (AP) exams are taken voluntarily at the conclusion of each AP course. AP exams may translate to college credits. Students should inquire with their school counselor, college or university they are planning to attend as to what scores they require on specific tests for college credit.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) exams are taken at the conclusion of each course. These exams are a mandatory part of the IB Program. Students who complete an IB diploma will enter any public Texas college or university with a minimum of 24 college hours as long as they have passed each exam with a score of 4 or higher.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 21 Are You in The Top 10% of Your Class? Students who are in the top 10 percent of their graduating class may be eligible for automatic admission to any public university in Texas (excluding UT Austin). UT Austin accepts the top 8% only. Some institutions also automatically admit students who are in the top 25 percent of their class.
To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must:
• Graduate in the top ten percent of his/her class at a public or private high school in Texas, or graduate in the top 10 percent of a high school operated by the U.S. Department of Defense and be a Texas resident or eligible to pay resident tuition; • Enroll in college no more than two years after graduating from high school; and
• Submit an application to a Texas public university for admission before the institution’s application deadline. Since deadlines vary, please check with the specific university to verify the application deadline.
Once a student is admitted, a university may receive a student’s high school records to determine if the student is prepared for college-level course work. A student who needs additional preparation may be required to take a developmental, enrichment, or orientation course during the semester prior to the first semester of college.
What if you are not Top 10% of your class? You should be aware that students who ARE NOT in the top 10 percent of their class may also be favorably considered for college admission under other criteria. University admissions officers may also consider: student’s academic record; socio-economic background; work and family responsibilities; admission to a comparable out-of-state institution; performance on standardized tests; such as the SAT or ACT; community activities; and proficiency in more than one language.
Each university is required to publish in its catalog the alternate factors it considers in making admission decisions. Consult the university you are interested in for details about admissions criteria for students who are not in the top 10 percent.
Planning for College Costs Are you thinking about going to college? GREAT! This section contains great information to help you plan. There are some things you can do while in high school to keep college costs down. To get ahead and save $$$ for college you can… • Take challenging classes in high school to avoid remedial education classes in college. When you take remedial courses, you have to pay full tuition and it does not count toward graduation. • Earn college credit through dual and/or early entry college student concurrent enrollment courses. • Take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes in high school. When you complete the class take the exam to place out of college classes. • Take Dual Credit Courses in order to earn college credit without paying tuition. • Earn college credit through articulated courses. • Explore career options so you won’t have to change majors often in college. Every time you change your major there is a cost you incur in time, effort, and money. • Take a career inventory to help you focus on your career choices. • Explore the career and technology education course offerings at your high school. • Keep your options open for community college, technical colleges, universities, military or the workforce.
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Financial Aid ______
Often the biggest challenge for students and parents is trying to figure out how to pay for college. In this section, you will find more information on the financial aid process and how to apply for financial aid, plus tips on reducing the cost of going to college.
Are you thinking about going to college? GREAT! Here are some tips on how you can keep college costs down while in high school!
Take challenging classes in high school to avoid remedial classes in college. When you take a remedial course, you have to pay full tuition and it does not count towards graduation.
Earn college credit during high school through dual credit courses. There are a number of courses you can enroll in and the tuition is waived! Yes, that’s right…you don’t pay tuition. There are enrollment requirements so check with your counselor.
Take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate classes in high school. When you complete the class, take the exam to place out of college classes.
Take Dual Credit courses to save on tuition and fees.
Earn college credit through articulated courses.
Explore career options so you won’t have to change majors in college. Every time you change your major there is a cost you incur in time, effort, and money.
Take a career inventory to help you focus on your career choices.
Explore the career and technology education course offerings at your high school. There are many opportunities to earn specialized certifications or training.
Keep your options open for community college, technical colleges, universities, military, or the workforce.
Academic Scholarships ______
With the high cost of higher education, one of the most frequently asked questions has to be, “What about scholarships?” “Scholarships” has become a word that has come to stand for financial aid of many kinds. To help sort out this important issue, the following definitions are offered:
Scholarships awarded for academic ability, results of standardized test such as the SAT, PSAT or ACT, superior athletic ability, or other achievement criteria. These do not have to be repaid.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 23 Awards/Grants—awarded for specific reasons, such as winning a contest or proven financial need. These do not have to be repaid as well.
Types of Scholarships/Awards/Grants (1) need-based, (2) merit-based, and (3) combination of need and merit.
Scholarship Programs are, in most cases, available only during the senior year. Organize your thinking in terms of types or groups from the highly competitive (national) to the less competitive (local) when applying.
1. National Programs—National Merit, General Motors, the Armed Services Military Academics, Coca-Cola Scholars Program, Target, etc.
2. Federal Grant Programs—Pell, SEOG, College Work-Study, Veterans’ Administration Benefits, etc.
3. State Programs—TEG, SSIG, Texas Tuition Exemption and Waiver Program, Texas Grant Program, Be On Time Student Loan, Texas Early Graduation Scholarship (students graduating in 3 years instead of 4).
4. University and College Scholarship—General Academic, Departmental, Alumni Awards, Organizational Grants, Private Donor Memorial, etc. Students must complete the application process before being considered for these scholarships.
5. Local Scholarships—Those which are restricted to graduates of the local high schools, given by service clubs, local industries, credit unions, churches, private individuals, etc.
For more information visit: www.careercruising.com
Where to start? Take the PSAT in October of your sophomore year and plan to take an SAT and/or ACT in May or June of your junior year. Many scholarships are awarded for high scores on the PSAT (National Merit) or a combination of your SAT/ACT and your class rank. You must take the PSAT your junior year in order to be considered for the National Merit Scholarship. Apply in early fall of the senior year to colleges and universities to start the scholarship process on the university level because this is where the most money is awarded.
There are also many “hidden scholarships” which should be taken advantage of, especially by middle and upper income families who may not qualify for need-based scholarships. If you are a strong student, consider trying to “test out” of college credit through SAT I and II, ACT, CLEP, or AP tests. Check the college catalog to see the credit by exam policy at the college of your choice.
Also consider the option of taking some high school courses for dual high school and college credit. Check with your counselors to see what is available at your school.
Check with your employer, your parents’ employers, your church and organizations to which you belong. Most of the opportunities will be for current seniors, but you won’t know until you ask. This will also give you a start point to knowing what is available for your senior year.
Work hard in your classes and take the toughest possible course load you can handle! Nothing will help you more on your scholarship quest than solid achievement in your classes.
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Financial Aid Opportunities (in Texas) ______
Toward Excellence, Access, Success (TEXAS) Grant Program Purpose The purpose of the program is to provide a grant of money to enable well-prepared eligible students to attend public and private nonprofit institutions of higher education in Texas.
Toward Excellence, Access, Success (TEXAS) Grant II Program Program Purpose The purpose of the program is to provide a grant of money to enable well-prepared eligible students to attend public community colleges, technical colleges or public State Colleges* in Texas.
Texas B-On-Time Student Program Purpose To provide no-interest loans to eligible students to enable them to attend college and universities in Texas.
Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP) Grant • Awards based on need. • Funds provided by the federal government to each state’s higher education agency. • Awarded criteria determined by each state and usually awarded only to in-state students, although some states awarded non-resident students on an exception basis. • Selection of recipients determined by the college or state higher education agency. • The FAFSA must be filled out and submitted in order to qualify for this grant.
Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) • Available to residents, non-residents, and foreign students attending public colleges in Texas. • Available to both undergraduate and graduate students. • Award amounts based on need. • The Federal Application For Student Aid (FAFSA) must be filled out and submitted in order to qualify for this grant.
Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) • Available to Texas residents or National Merit Scholarship finalists. • Available to both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at least half-time. • Students must be attending independent colleges in Texas. • Recipients can not be theology or religion degree majors or be on athletic scholarships. • Award amounts based on need. • The FAFSA must be filled out and submitted in order to qualify for this grant.
Resources: If you need assistance filling out the FAFSA or you have questions regarding the application call 1- (800) 433 – 3243 or go to www.fafsa.ed.gov.
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Career Development ______
“Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do something, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic and faithful, and you will accomplish your objective. Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." ---Ralph Waldo Emerson
Career Development Cycle • Know yourself. Identify your interests, skills, values, strengths, personality type, and take a career assessment. • Explore options. Learn about academic and career options. • Set goals. Connect your knowledge about yourself and the career world to set your goals.
Experience opportunities Test the waters and learn through experience. Join student organizations, volunteer, obtain an internship or study abroad.
Careers “If you love your job, you will never have to work another day in your life.” Confucius
There are many exciting careers waiting for those who are interested and prepared. Now is the time to explore different careers, interview people, and look carefully at your interests. People work an average of 35-45 years, so it’s important that you select a career you enjoy. Don’t panic though, this selection takes time and many people change careers an average of three times in their lifetime.
______26 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Steps to Career Direction ______
Step 1: What’s Out There? What are YOUR Career Possibilities? Step 2: An Honest Look At Yourself: Your Interest And YOUR Career Possibilities Step 3: The Career For You: Making A Critical Decision-Setting Your Goals Step 4: YOUR Plan of Action Step 5: Additional Training and Education • Sources • Expenses •Financial Aid
Step 6:
Making Choices
• Informed • Uninformed • Career Blockers
Step 7:
Get That Job
• The Resume • The Cover Letter • The Application • The Interview
How will I know what career is right for me? Exploring careers is exciting. Here are some ways to begin:
Interviews/Letters Talk to people working in jobs that interest you. Ask about their work. What do they like about it? What kind of training or education was required? You may do this in person or through a letter or e-mail.
Computer Software • Use your school’s Go Center to explore careers and advanced education opportunities. • Other software programs exist as well. • Use your account to access this information.
Interest Inventories Ask your guidance counselor to help you explore your strengths and interests through interest inventories.
Explore Careers by Cluster • Because there are so many jobs in this country, jobs are grouped into “career clusters.” Jobs in the same cluster are alike in some way. • Visit the Career Fair if your school is having one.
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Successful Career Tips ______
1. Know Yourself Achievement, abilities, interests, ambitions, and values are important factors to be considered in setting your goals. THESE CAN BE DISCUSSED WITH YOUR COUNSELOR, FRIENDS, AND PARENTS.
2. Study Occupations Visit the Go Center and interact with the occupational interest career software. Find out as much as possible about various occupations that interest you. If possible, get some experience in these occupations. Consult with people in these fields. Attend career programs sponsored by the school and/or community. Are there apprenticeships programs for this field? Can you job shadow or participate in an internship?
3. Plan Your High School Program Rigorous courses are required for entrance to college. College catalogs are a good source for evaluation of what will be needed. Are these areas that you would like to explore and learn more about? High school is an excellent time to research, challenge yourself, and consider what options you would like to pursue in the future. Consult with your counselor.
4. Learn to Study Develop GOOD STUDY HABITS including how to take notes from lectures and research materials. Strive to improve your study habits as you progress through high school. It will pay off when you go to college or other post secondary training.
5. Make Good Grades Grades of 80 or better are considered recommending grades. Good grades are important. While some colleges and/or technical schools will accept students with grades below the recommended ones, a student’s chances for admission to a college are better when the academic record is strong.
6. Time Management Balancing your class time, study time & play time is essential. All three are important to being a successful high school and college student.
______28 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling How to use high school to plan your career ______
Learn about yourself and potential careers. Look at different career possibilities. Take different career-investigating courses. Use a computer program like Career Cruising. Use the Dictionary of Occupations Handbook. Take the most rigorous classes. Discover your talents. Investigate the Texas Workforce website Internet address: http://www.texasworkforce.org Participate in extra-curricular activities. Gain skills that sell in the job market. Enroll in a Career and Technology program. Use the summer to explore opportunities. Volunteer with a community agency. Volunteer at a worksite in your area of interest
Remember that your number one job in high school is to get the best possible education and to graduate!
Median annual earnings of full-time, full-year wage and salary workers ages 25–34, by sex and educational attainment: Selected years, 1980–2008 [In constant 2008 dollars] All education High school diploma Bachelor's degree Year levels or GED or higher Male 1980 $46,700 $44,200 $52,300
1985 44,000 40,000 54,800
1990 41,200 36,300 52,300
1995 38,900 33,900 52,700
2000 42,500 36,300 57,500
2005 38,600 33,100 55,100
2008 40,000 32,000 55,000
Female 1980 $31,400 $28,700 $38,800
1985 32,000 28,000 41,800
1990 32,600 26,400 42,800
1995 31,100 24,900 42,400
2000 33,800 26,300 44,400
2005 33,100 26,500 44,100
2008 34,000 25,000 45,000
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics. (2010). The Condition of Education 2010 (NCES 2010–028), Table A-17-1.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 29 Career Cruising ______
www.careercruising.com Login: ______Password: ______(Ask your counselor for your log-in information.)
Career Cruising has been designed with one goal in mind: to help you plan your future. The planning of your future is accomplished through exceptional assessment tools, detailed occupation profiles, and comprehensive post-secondary education information.
World Class Assessments − Career Matchmaker is based on an internationally acclaimed interest assessment that is used and respected around the world. − My Skills component matches students’ skills to careers. − Personalized Feedback helps students understand how careers relate to their skills and interests. Intuitive Career Exploration − Multimedia Interviews- multimedia onscreen interviews allow students to see and hear from real people in each occupation. − Search Options- A variety of search options allow students to find careers that meet their needs and goals. − Direct Links-Direct links between careers and education programs help students take the next step. Comprehensive Education Planning − Detailed School Profiles includes information on admissions, expenses, and athletics. − Search Options-Students can search for schools by keyword, program name, state/province, or program cluster. − Direct Links-Access a school’s website for additional information. Engaging Career Portfolio Development − Save Careers and Schools of Interest − Create a personalized five-year high school plan. − Document career preparation plans and activities. − Record extracurricular activities, awards, and work and volunteer experiences. − Store career and education related documents online. − Create professional looking resumes. Military Careers − Students interested in a career with the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard can find information in the Careers Tab. − Military Careers are searched by a keyword, job, family, or service branch − Each profile includes an overview of the job task, work environment, attributes and training requirements, civilian career counterparts, and a list of military branches offering the career − Students are able to save the military profiles to their portfolio and can be found in the Careers that Interest Me Section
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Military Career Services ______
The military offers training in a variety of vocational fields. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is required testing for military service. ASVAB determines eligibility in different career opportunities in the military.
A high school graduate who enlists in any one of the U.S. Armed Services (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Navy, and Marine Corps) will have the opportunity to select a military occupational specialty. The military services invest great amounts of money in formal and “on the job training” for each of the hundreds of occupational specialties.
In a four-year enlistment, for example, a person can receive the equivalent of a junior college education in occupation areas such as business management and administration, communications (electronic) technology and operations, police science, fire protection technology, nursing, restaurant management, purchasing, accounting, physical therapy, and many others.
This is only a hint of the opportunities for learning while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Students may get specific information by talking with their high school counselors or with local recruiting officers of each service.
Note: If the military is your career choice, consider the following: • Use the study guides for the ASVAB prior to taking the test. ASVAB scores are used to determine the menu of career offerings within the military. • Make a list of questions to ask the recruiter and be sure you are satisfied with the answers. • Take the time you need to make a decision. Do not allow yourself to be pressured.
Each branch of the military has a recruiter for every campus. Please call the main number to learn who the recruiter for your campus is. NAVY: 598-9273 AIR FORCE: 757-2449 ARMY: 857-0176 MARINES: 774-0950
What is Achieve Texas? Welcome to Achieve Texas which is an education initiative designed to prepare students for a lifetime of success. It allows students to achieve excellence by preparing them for secondary and postsecondary opportunities, career preparation and advancement, meaningful work, and active citizenship.
Achieve Texas is designed to help students (and their parents) make wise education choices. It is based on the belief that the curricula of the 21st century should combine rigorous academics with relevant career education. When schools integrate academic and technical education, students can see the “usefulness” of what they are learning. The system also facilitates a seamless transition from secondary to postsecondary opportunities.
This initiative uses the sixteen federally defined Career Clusters of the States’ Career Clusters initiative (www.careerclusters.org) as the foundation for restructuring how schools arrange their instructional programs. A Career Cluster is a grouping of occupations and broad industries based on commonalities. The sixteen Career Clusters provide an organizing tool for schools, small learning communities, academies, and magnet schools. Programs of Study (POS) have been developed for each of the Career Clusters. The POS represent a recommended sequence of coursework based on a student’s interest or career goal.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 31 The 16 Career Clusters ______
Producing processing, marketing, distribution, financing, and development of agricultural commodities and resources includes food, fiber, wood products, natural resources, horticulture, and other plant and animal products/resources.
Designing, planning, managing, building and maintaining the built environment.
Designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content including visual and performing arts and design, journalism, and entertainment services.
Planning, organizing, directing and evaluating business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations. Business Management and Administration career opportunities are available in every sector of the economy.
Planning, managing and providing education and training services, and related learning support services.
Planning, services for financial and investment planning, banking, insurance, and business financial management.
Executing governmental functions to include Governance; National Security; Foreign Service; Planning; Revenue and Taxation; Regulation; and Management and Administration at the local, state, and federal levels.
Planning, managing, and providing therapeutic services, diagnostic services, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development.
Managing, marketing and operations of restaurants and other foodservices, lodging, attractions, recreation events and travel related services.
Preparing individuals for employment in career pathways that relate to families and human needs.
Building Linkages in ITS Occupations Framework: For Entry-Level, Technical, and Professional Careers Related to the Design, Development, Support and Management of Hardware, Software, Multimedia, and Systems Integration Services.
______32 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Planning, managing, and providing legal, public safety, protective services and homeland security, including professional and technical support services.
Planning, managing and performing the processing of materials into intermediate or final products and related professional and technical support activities such as production planning and control, maintenance and manufacturing/process engineering.
Planning, managing, and performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives.
Planning, managing, and providing scientific research and professional and technical services (e.g., physical science, social science, engineering) including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services. Planning, management, and movement of people, materials, and goods by road, pipeline, air, rail and water and related professional and technical support services such as transportation infrastructure planning and management, logistics services, mobile equipment and facility maintenance.
© 2009, States' Career Clusters Initiative. All Rights Reserved
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Goals of Achieve Texas ______
• Career Clusters and Programs of Study (POS) are an integral part of the Texas education system.
• Every student prepares a personalized graduation plan in middle school to plan for grades 9–16 and beyond. The student chooses a Career Cluster and POS to guide his or her learning in the context of personal career interests. Plans are evaluated and updated annually.
• Clusters span all grades (P–16+). Career awareness begins in elementary school and transitions into career exploration in middle school. Career concentrations in high school help students transition into career preparation in postsecondary. All participants experience career advancement in employment.
• The education system is seamless between high school and postsecondary institutions. Students have opportunities in a POS to earn dual credit and articulated credit that flows seamlessly into postsecondary education or training.
• Partnerships are in place throughout the system. Partnerships are established statewide and locally between business and education. Educational institutions form meaningful partnerships.
• Academics are woven throughout the P–16+ curriculum. There is an integration of academic and technical knowledge and skills within the curriculum. Interdisciplinary teaching takes place and academics are taught in context. Curriculum alignment occurs between secondary and postsecondary education.
• Career guidance is dramatically enhanced. All students have access to quality assessment and career information resources. Career counseling is provided with a strong emphasis on career and college readiness.
• All students take part in extended learning opportunities. Every student chooses extended learning experiences such as service learning, internships, apprenticeships, and work-based learning.
• Professional development supports the cluster system. Professional development is a critical part of the teacher’s career. Schools of education train teachers for career clusters.
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Resume – How to Write One ______
There are different resume formats. You can use these samples as a template to create one for yourself.
General Form Use one sheet of white 8 ½ by 11 inch paper. Use even margins and leave space between sections. Center your name, address, telephone number, and email, if applicable.
College Objective Describe in one sentence what your college major will be.
Education List complete address of your high school, including phone number. Also note the date of graduation and your GPA. List courses you completed in high school that helped to prepare you for your college major.
Abilities List the abilities that will help you in college.
Experience List all of your volunteer work hours (include number of hours you have completed) and paid work experience. Include conferences and workshops you participated in. The skills and abilities that you learned and used at these jobs should be listed in the previous section “Abilities.”
Interests and Activities • School-- list all school clubs and organizations you participated in and the years. • Community--list all activities you participated in at your church, in your neighborhood, or community. • Offices Held--list the offices you held in clubs, organizations, your church, or the community. • Hobbies--list your hobbies or special interests.
Awards List awards or certificates of merit you have earned.
References Give the names and addresses of people who have agreed to give you a recommendation. Choose people who can attest positively to your character and abilities. Be sure you obtain permission in advance from the people you list as references.
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Resume or Personal Data Sheet ______
Your name Your street address Your city and state and zip code Your phone number, including area code Your email address (Your e-mail address should be a professional address and not the one you established in the 6th grade to play video games with.)
Purpose: State the purpose of your request. Do you need a letter of recommendation for college, financial aid, full-time employment or summer employment?
Education: List any special courses you have taken that are relative to your chosen college, a specific type of financial aid, or business. Include honors classes; higher level math/science vocational classes; business classes, etc. Also mention the type of graduation program you intend to complete and your approximate class ranking.
Educational Award/Honors: Remember, include the grade level and specify what the award/ honor was for. You may include any award or honors for grades 9-12.
School Activities/Awards: List any school clubs/organizations you have been involved with. Be sure to specify any offices or special duties that you may have held in these clubs/organizations.
Sports Activities/Awards: List any sports you were involved in, leadership roles, and awards you received.
Outside Activities/Awards: Remember to include involvement in your community and church as well as any volunteer work or specific club or cultural activities. Work experiences count here as well.
Employment Experiences: List specific jobs you have held. Include the place of employment, the date, and your position.
Goals for the future: Identify some of your long-term goals, especially as they relate to your college career or job placement.
Hobbies/Special Interest: List activities or hobbies you are interested in.
Information which may be applicable in cases of financial aid request: If you are applying for financial aid, include specific reasons that show why you are a likely candidate: family situation; number of brothers/sisters, other family members currently attending college; special hardship conditions, etc.
*Note: Compile information, such as the indicated in boldface type, in a file or on disk. Your counselor will have a form to assist you in this process. You can easily update information as the year goes on with very little effort. Keep a current copy on file in the counselor’s office and run extra copies to hand out to individuals from whom you request recommendations.
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Resume Sample ______
Name Address Email Phone number
Objective Career in Desktop Publishing
Education 2002 to Present Americas High School El Paso, TX
Enrolled in COSMOS (Curriculum Opportunities for Science and Math Oriented Students) Magnet Program.
Awards Received Spring 2002: Triple “A” Award for Outstanding Guitar Student Spring 2003: 1st Place Literary Anthology Award for Best Short Story Spring 2004: 1st Place Literary Anthology Award for Best Satire Spring 2004: 2nd Place Literary Anthology Award for Best Short Story Who’s who in Media Technology Perfect Attendance 2003-2004 Top Ten Ranking (6/646) Spring 2004: Triple “A” Award for Outstanding Media Technology Student National Hispanic Scholar 2005-06 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars 3rd Place State Champion in Web site Design (Skills USA) Certificate of Recognition from Senator Eliot Shapleigh: November 2005
Interests and Activities Vice President of Key Club Chapter Mu Alpha Theta Member and Co-Founder Church Youth Group Skills USA Desktop Publishing Film-making and other media communications NHI Member NHS Member Care Member
Community Services Member of Church Youth Group for three years Member of NHI (National Hispanic Institute) for three years NHI trainer in summer of 2003 Assisted in Church retreat: 48 hours Pride Day Cleanup: 2.5 hours Hurricane Katrina Relief: 6 hours Ronald McDonald Cleanup: 4 hours Spooktacular Children’s Fair: 2 hours Christmas Float Construction: 5 hours
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Resume Sample (continued) ______
Horizon Children’s Camp: 17 hours Volunteered in video production during summer 2005 (100+ hours) Participated in Church Passion Play for three years Produced “Danzas Española’s” video: 3 weeks (1.5 hours daily) Sparks Camp for Children: 15 hours
School Activities Member of NHS: 10th, 11th, & 12th Grades Member of COSMOS (Curriculum Opportunities for Science and Math Oriented Students) Program 9th thru 12th Grades Key Club Officer: 10th, 11th & 12th Grades Member of Skills USA Desktop Publishing 11th Grade Member of CARE Organization: 11th Grade Member and Co-founder of Mu Alpha Theta: 1th & 12th Grades
Academic Achievements Received all A’s throughout high school career Triple “A” Award for Outstanding Guitar Student Triple “A” Award for Outstanding Media Technology Student Who’s Who in Media Technology Perfect Attendance Top Ten Ranking 1st Place Literary Anthology for Best Satire 1st Place Literary Anthology for Best Short Story 2nd Place Literary Anthology for Best Humorous Essay 1st Place District Web Page Design for Skills USA 3rd Place Stat Web Page Design for Skills USA 2005-06 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars
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Failing Class? Try these… ______
Make an appointment to talk with your teacher. Ask for advice for grade improvement, and be willing to do what it takes.
Cut back on your work hours if you have an out-of-school job. School is your #1 priority.
Be in class everyday, with the books and materials you need, and pay attention. Take good notes and review them that afternoon or night to make sure you understand what you wrote down.
Get the name and phone number of someone in your class that is a good student. When you are absent, you can call them to get your assignment.
Turn in every homework assignment. A zero can kill even the best average.
Find out what type of tutoring is available at your school.
See your counselor for some study skills suggestions.
Believe that you can succeed. A positive attitude will help you reach your goals.
Fighting Failure ______
The most common reasons students use to explain failing grades are:
• I was lazy. • There was too much work, and I did not have time. • I did not like the teacher. • It did not seem important. • I still had middle school habits. • I work and I didn’t have the time or energy for school work at night. • I was worried about other problems and could not concentrate. • I had family commitments and did not have time. • I missed too many days of class. • I did not turn in assignments.
Don’t let it happen to you!
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Personal/Social Development ______
“A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles.” - Tim Cahill
Definition of Bullying Bullying is when someone repeatedly and on purpose says or does mean or hurtful things to another person who has a hard time defending him or herself. - Olweus
What to do if you’re being bullied • Tell an adult you trust. • Hang out with friends. • Join groups who like the same thing. • Walk to school with someone. • Avoid bullies-stay away from them and places where bullies are. • Don’t fight back or get mad. • Stay within the sight of adults-parents, teachers, bus drivers. • Do not act scared-keep your head up and be confident.
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is bullying or harassment that happens online. It can happen in an email, a text message, an online game, or comments on a social networking site. It might involve rumors or images posted on someone’s profile or passed around for others to see, or creating a group or page to make a person feel left out.
You can’t hide behind the words you type and the images you post. Hurtful messages not only make the target feel bad, but they also make the sender look bad – and sometimes can bring scorn from peers and punishment from authorities.
If you fear for your safety, tell an adult like your teacher or parent and call the police.
Read the comments. Cyberbullying often involves mean-spirited comments.
Don’t react. If you are targeted by a cyberbully, do not respond. Bullies usually are looking for a reaction from their target. Instead save the evidence and talk to an adult about it. If the bullying persists, share the record with school officials or local law enforcement.
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Protect your profile. If you find a profile was created or altered without your permission, contact an adult to have the company that runs the site to have it taken down.
Block or delete the bully. If the bullying involves instant messaging or another online service that requires a “friends” or “buddy” list, delete the bully from the list or block their user name or email address.
Help stop cyberbullying. If you see cyberbullying happening to someone else, encourage him or her to try to stop it by not engaging or forwarding anything and by telling the bully to stop. Also tell an adult. Researchers say that bullying usually stops pretty quickly when peers intervene on behalf of the victim. One way to help stop bullying online is to report it to the site or network where your see it.
Recognize the signs of a cyberbully. Could your kid be the bully? Look for signs of bullying behavior, such as creating mean images of another kid.
Keep in mind that you are a model for your children. Kids learn from adults’ gossip and other unkind behavior. Source: OnGuard Online
Love shouldn’t hurt!
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Says to say no to drugs ______
• "No, I'd rather not." • "No, thanks." SIMPLY SAY NO • "Thanks, but no thanks." • "Forget it." • "Not now."
• "I don't do drugs." GIVE A • "I'll get red eyes and my parents will find out." • "I can have fun without it." REASON • "I'm on the track team, so I don't drink." • "I don't feel like it."
• "No, but i'd sure like a soda." GIVE AN • "No, but let's go outside and talk." • "No, I'm going to the mall if you want to come ALTERNATIVE along." • "No, but let's dance instead."
• "No, I've got to go now." LEAVE THE • "No, I have to be home at 9 o'clock." • "No" and walk away SCENE • "My dad's picking me up soon."
• "I just don't feel like it." STAND UP TO • "I already said NO." THE PRESSURE • "I really meant it when I said NO."
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How does SISD define harassment? ______
Harassment means threatening to cause harm or bodily injury to another student, engaging in sexually intimidating conduct, causing physical damage to the property of another student, subjecting another student to physical confinement or restraint, or maliciously taking any action that substantially harms another student’s physical or emotional health or safety.
Source: Student Handbook &Code of Conduct.
Harassment on the basis of Race, Color, Sexual Harassment / Sexual Abuse Religion, National Origin, or Disability Students must not engage in unwanted and Students must not engage in harassment unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a behaviors motivated by race, color, sexual nature directed toward another student or religion, national origin or disability directed a District employee. This prohibition applies toward another student. Students are whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any expected to treat other students and other sexual conduct, including requests for District employees with courtesy and sexual favors. Students are expected to treat respect; to avoid any behaviors known to other students and District employees with be offensive; and to stop these behaviors courtesy and respect; to avoid behaviors known when asked or told to stop. or perceived to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop. Students must not engage in harassing behavior motivated by another’s sexual orientation.
What do I do if I am being harassed? What Things to remember: if one of my friends is being harassed? • You deserve to feel safe at school. • Tell the person to stop • School personnel will make it stop. Tell • Tell any adult in the school them about it. • Tell your parents • DON’T BE AFRAID! • Get help as soon as possible, don’t • It’s not your fault. wait
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 43 Making Friends ______
Make sure you are kind to whoever you meet at the new school. Try to be nice to everyone of all cultures and backgrounds.
Take a deep breath. You shouldn't be nervous, you're going to a new school, not to torture. Remember that in your new school you will find kids your age. You're going to meet people who like you there. Don't judge others before you get to know them.
Be yourself. Never change who you are to try and fit in. If your friends don't accept you for you, they're not really friends. Most people belong with a certain clique simply because they are being themselves and their unique personalities and interests fall into that stereotype. For example, someone who is naturally athletic will become a jock in high school or someone who is naturally artistic or emotional will become part of the emo crowd. Many people can tell you are a fake. Don't try too hard.
Be hygienic. No one likes a whiff of B.O. or bad breath that could knock someone over. Shower daily, wear deodorant, brush your teeth, and wash your hair . Designer clothes aren't everything, but look neat. It can make you seem cleaner and more approachable. Also, mints are a great way to keep your breath fresh throughout the day.
Be inviting. A smile goes a long way. When you walk in the halls, don't hunch over your books or keep your eyes on the floor. Stick your chin up and make eye contact with other people. If you see someone you know, give a smile or say hi. Introduce yourself. Tell them your name and where you're from. Ask a question: "How's the cafeteria food around here?" Chat about the new school: "How long have you gone to this school?" or even a compliment "I love your shoes, where did you get them?"
Make the first move. Anywhere, in the bathroom, near your locker, or at the water fountain, you can find someone that has things in common with you, all you need is to know how to approach them. Strike up a conversation, smile and compliment them, and, of course, introduce yourself and tell them where you came from! You never know where you can find a nice friend.
Remember their names. People like it when you call them by name, but they can get annoyed if they don't remember. Ask them gently if they have a nickname. You'd be surprised where this can come in handy.
Do something nice for someone. Save someone a seat. Say "hi" in the hall. Give congratulations for a job well done. Pay a compliment: "I love your shoes/backpack" It can make wonders.
Join after school activities you like. Choir or theater or hang around for a French club meeting, etc. Even if you don't know anyone there, you'll all share a common interest, and you can experience with different personalities from yours that have the same interest!
Look for other people who are new to the school. You're probably not the only one and at the very least, you'll have one thing in common: you're both in an unfamiliar environment. The good news is, if you are starting at a new school in start up year, almost everyone is new! Since being new is something that you all have in common, making new friends shouldn't be that hard. Talk about your old school, your new school, your opinions, grades, teachers, etc.
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Making Friends (continued) ______
Don't sit at the back of the class where other people don't notice you! Try to sit in the middle where you're around everyone and can make conversation.
Figure out who the "mean girls" or the "hot-headed jocks" are. These are the people that you might want to avoid for a while. Don't be mean to them and don't completely avoid them, because who knows, they may be nice people! Also stay away from the types that are in gangs and do criminal activities. Unless that's who you fit in with. You need to be yourself. Be strong. And don’t try to please everyone around you if it doesn’t please you.
Finally, meet up with them outside of school once you get to know them. This is an important step to making TRUE friends who you can rely on.
Here’s What Makes a Good Friend… • You can trust friends; friends don’t blab your secrets; they tell you honestly about things, and you don’t have to worry that they are talking behind your back.
• Friends stick with you. You’re in a crowd, and your friend doesn’t bring up the stupid thing you did yesterday. Friends look out for you and stick up for you. They are on your side.
• Friends care about you. Friends put your needs above their own. They now when things aren’t great and they try to help.
• Friends accept you. Friends don’t always agree with you, but they accept you and you accept them.
Here’s What Makes a Bad Friend… • Pressure you into doing things that aren’t right.
• Insult you, judge you, gossip about you.
• Don’t care about what you have to say.
• Don’t support what’s important to you.
• Try to control how you act or think.
• Lie behind your back.
• Treat other friends horribly. Even if they are kind towards you. If you can see that they are being vicious to one of your other new-found friends, try to steer clear.
• Won’t be nice to you when you are around others.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 45 Warnings: Don’t try too hard. This really falls under the category of changing yourself in order to seem more attractive to others. Don’t fake interest, or cling on to people you want to be friends with. Be natural and friendly, but don’t overdo it.
Be careful, you don’t want to make someone mad by going up and talking to them. If it looks like they are in a bad mood, it’d be a good idea to stay away! Even if you are the caring type that likes to help those in distress, people don’t usually like perfect strangers asking them personal questions, sorry.
Don’t show-off a lot, because some people don’t like boasters, so be a normal kid, then when you get a friend you can tell about your interests!
When you get a friend don’t boss them around, because they would not like someone else telling them what to do.
When you get a friend, don’t monopolize the conversation. It is obvious that they would like to steer clear of a certain topic, then respect that!
Keep your family and old friends close. Maybe even try to make some friends out of school so that you have someone to talk to.
Source: wikiHow
Healthy Communities Healthy Youth
40 Developmental Assets® for Adolescents (ages 12-18) Search Institute® has identified the following building blocks of healthy development—known as Developmental Assets®—that help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.
This page may be reproduced for educational, noncommercial uses only. Copyright © 1997, 2006 by Search Institute, 615 First Avenue N.E., Suite 125, Minneapolis, MN 55413; 800-888-7828; www.search-institute.org. All Rights Reserved. The following are registered trademarks of Search Institute: Search Institute®, Developmental Assets® and Healthy Communities • Healthy Youth®.
External Assets Support 1. Family support Family life provides high levels of love and support. 2. Positive family communication Young person and her or his parent(s) communicate positively, and young person is willing to seek advice and counsel from parents. 3. Other adult relationships Young person receives support from three or more nonparent . 4. Caring neighborhood Young person experiences caring neighbors. 5. Caring school climate School provides a caring, encouraging environment. 6. Parent involvement in schooling Parent(s) are actively involved in helping young person succeed in school.
______46 Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling Empowerment 7. Community values youth Young person perceives that adults in the community value youth. 8. Youth as resources Young people are given useful roles in the community. 9. Service to others Young person serves in the community one hour or more per week. 10. Safety Young person feels safe at home, school, and in the neighborhood.
Boundaries & Expectations 11. Family boundaries Family has clear rules and consequences and monitors the young person’s whereabouts. 12. School Boundaries School provides clear rules and consequences. 13. Neighborhood boundaries Neighbors take responsibility for monitoring young people’s behavior. 14. Adult role models Parent(s) and other adults model positive, responsible behavior. 15. Positive peer influence Young person’s best friends model responsible behavior. 16. High expectations Both parent(s) and teachers encourage the young person to do well.
Constructive Use of Time 17. Creative activities Young person spends three or more hours per week in lessons or practice in music, theater, or other arts. 18. Youth programs Young person spends three or more hours per week in sports, clubs, or Organizations at school and/or in the community. 19. Religious community Young person spends one or more hours per week in activities in a religious institution. 20. Time at home Young person is out with friends “with nothing special to do” two or fewer nights per week.
Internal Assets Commitment to Learning 21. Achievement Motivation Young person is motivated to do well in school. 22. School Engagement Young person is actively engaged in learning. 23. Homework Young person reports doing at least one hour of homework every school day. 24. Bonding to school Young person cares about her or his school. 25. Reading for Pleasure Young person reads for pleasure three or more hours per week.
Positive Values 26. Caring Young person places high value on helping other people. 27. Equality and social justice Young person places high value on promoting equality and reducing hunger and poverty. 28. Integrity Young person acts on convictions and stands up for her or his beliefs. 29. Honesty Young person “tells the truth even when it is not easy.” 30. Responsibility Young person accepts and takes personal responsibility.
______Socorro Independent School District 2011-2012 SISD Sophomore Transition Guide - Guidance & Counseling 47 31. Restraint Young person believes it is important not to be sexually active or to use alcohol or other drugs.
Social Competencies 32. Planning and decision making Young person knows how to plan ahead and make choices. 33. Interpersonal Competence Young person has empathy, sensitivity, and friendship skills. 34. Cultural Competence Young person has knowledge of and comfort with people of different cultural/racial/ethnic backgrounds. 35. Resistance skills Young person can resist negative peer pressure and dangerous situations. 36. Peaceful conflict resolution Young person seeks to resolve conflict nonviolently.
Positive Identity 37. Personal power Young person feels he or she has control over “things that happen to me.” 38. Self-esteem Young person reports having a high self-esteem. 39. Sense of purpose Young person reports that “my life has a purpose.” 40. Positive view of personal future Young person is optimistic about her or his personal future.
Frequently asked questions ______
What is a GPA? Your grade point average (GPA) is a number (the average of all your semester grades) that reflects your academic performance. Your GPA is important because it will determine where you rank in class. The student with the highest GPA is number one, and all other GPA’s follow.
What is my rank in class? Class rank is the comparison of your GPA against all other students in your grade level at your campus.
What is a dual credit? The Socorro Independent School District and El Paso Community College have created a dual credit program for juniors and seniors at all high schools. Students receive both high school and college credit for a course taken in high school.
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How many credits do I have? Students should keep a record of classes taken. Each class period taken is ½ credit per semester. You must pass the class with a 70 to get credit. Using the audit sheet in this booklet will help you maintain record of your credits. You can also request a copy of your transcript.
Do I have to have foreign language to graduate? Yes, Socorro Independent School District requires 2 or 3 years of the same foreign language for graduation.
How many credits do I have to be a junior? The minimum requirement is 12 at the beginning of the school year.
What is a local credit, and how does it affect me? Local credits are those courses that do not count for graduation. For example, courtesy, PE courses above the state graduation allowance of four credits, study hall, and math-local credit.
How do I get help if I want to know more about career planning? Every student has a Career Cruising account that they are able to access via the Internet. There is a wealth of information on careers, internet inventories etc. on this site. You may also visit your school counselor for additional information.
Should I take the PSAT as a sophomore? Yes. This test will be good practice for the PSAT given in October of your junior year, which qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship Competition as well as the SAT College Entrance Exam.
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Socorro ISD Community Service Form
# Name Organization Date & Hours Authorized Signature 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Total Hours:
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Volunteerism ______
Volunteerism in the United States is neither a new concept nor an uncommon activity. Historically, America has long recognized the importance of “a societal responsibility to join in, to give freely to one’s time to assist or aid others.” Young, Richard D
The Definition of Volunteerism According to the Fair Labor Standards Act, a volunteer is: An individual who performs hours of service for a public agency [or organization] for civic, charitable, or humanitarian reasons, without promise, expectation or receipt of compensation for services rendered.
By volunteering we learn important life skills like being responsible, organization, leadership, and a caring spirit. Volunteers gain self-confidence when they know they’ve made a real contribution to a volunteer project. Volunteering also puts kids in contact with other adults who serve as positive role models.
Students in the Socorro Independent School District are encouraged to give back to their community through volunteerism. A log has been provided in your Student Guide for you to keep track of your hours. It will come in handy when you apply for scholarships because colleges and universities want to see if you in fact have given back to your community through this very important act of volunteerism.
There are three types of community service: • School based community service • Faith based community service • Organizational based community service
Some volunteering ideas include: School Based Community Service • Tutoring Lab-Tutor students in their weak subject matter. • Reading-Read to students either individually or in the library. • Donations-Collect canned goods for families in need during the holidays. Faith Based Community Service • Cleaning Services-Stay to clean up and disinfect the toys after the service. • Vacation Bible School-Teach, volunteer, donate cookies, decorate or help with the children . • Donations-Collects toys for families in need during the holidays. Organizational Based Community Service • Outdoor Clean-Up-at local parks and recreation departments; or during Make a Difference Day. • Entertainment-If you have dramatic or musical talents you might present a skit, song, or musical piece. Offer to present a “talent show” to a local nursing home. • Reading Fun-Check if the local library needs help with reading programs. Reading to seniors at nursing homes or to someone who has lost his or her vision is also a consideration. • Outdoor Clean-Up-at local parks and recreation departments; or during Make a Difference Day. • Entertainment-If you have dramatic or musical talents you might present a skit, song, or musical piece. Offer to present a “talent show” to a local nursing home.
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Surfing the net for your future ______
The following is a list of suggested websites for career and college exploration:
www.fastweb.com www.ed.gov/direcloan/students.html www.act.org/ www.embark.com www.collegeboard.com www.ets.org www.universitites.com www.petersons.com/ www.freschinfo.com www.wageweb.com www.finaid.org www.jobstar.org www.gocollege.com www.homefair.com www.jumpstartcoalition.org www.bestjobusa.com www.kaplan.com www.erieri.com www.rpi.edu/dept.cdc/carserv www.mapping-your-future.org www.BeAnActuary.org www.collegefortexans.com www.monster.com www.thecb.state.tx.us www.makingitcount.com/HighSchool/start www.texas mentor.org www.AdventuresInEducation.org www.ed.gov/finaid.html www.collegeispossible.org www.collegelink.com www.utexas.edu/world/univ www.collegeview.com
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This guide is presented to you compliments of your High School Counselor and the Socorro ISD Guidance and Counseling Department.
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