Dear Junior Parents,
Life at SPHS continues to be active as students study hard to
prepare for college and participate in campus life, sports and community service work. It is hard to believe that our students only have a little over a year left in high school! It is important that the students finish this year in a
strong manner. This is a key year academically, and we are so impressed with how this class is handling challenges. We continue to marvel at the students’ accomplishments and in how they have grown in maturity. Here are some pieces of information that will help you as families prepare for the future!
SAT/SAT Subject Tests/ACT: All students planning on applying
to a four-year college should take the SAT or ACT in the Junior year. This gives a student room to repeat tests in the Senior year. They can register online at www.collegeboard.com or www.act.org. SAT subject tests can be taken May 3 or June 7.
SAT Preparation Classes: There are many reputable SAT/ACT Prep
classes available in the community; many local tutoring centers also offer classes. Test preparation information is available in the Counseling Center. We advise you to call around and check prices and class schedules. The Counseling Department is also sponsoring a mock ACT test here on campus through Eureka Review on Saturday, April 19 from 9 AM to 1:30 PM. The cost will be $20 (checks can be made out to South Pasadena High School). Students will receive their scores immediately after the mock test. Students may sign up with Ms. Long in the Counseling Center by Thursday, April 17.
Fee Waivers: Waivers are available for SAT/ACT fees for low-income
families. (ex: students who are on the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program.) Using fee waivers for an SAT/ACT test then qualifies that student to get a fee waiver on some college application fees. If you believe your family may qualify, ask you student to see Mrs. Dam in the Counseling Office as soon as possible. Parents will need to verify income with tax records.
Attend a College Fair: The National College Fair 2008 will be
held at the University of Southern California Galen Center on Sunday, April
13 from 1 PM to 4 PM and on Monday, April 14 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Students and parents who attend will get information on admissions requirements, financial aid, testing, and college majors, plus have the opportunity to meet with representatives from colleges and universities across the nation.
Spring/Summer Vacation and College Visits: If your student is
considering applying to a college outside Southern California, this is a great
time to take a family trip to visit some of the schools that are of interest.
We have seen too many students go through all the work of applying to a college “sight unseen” and then once they visit or start college, find they
do not really like the school, weather, location or demographics. Please visit!
If not now, do so before a final decision is made. There are many companies
that will take your child on college visits for a fee, but it is always good
for parents to see the campus also so they feel comfortable with the final decision.
Summer Opportunities: There are hundreds of unique and exciting
summer opportunities. You do not have to limit your horizons to SPHS. Consider living on a college campus and taking classes or study abroad. Summer opportunity materials are in the Counseling/Career Center Room CC1. Please stop by to gather information on interesting ways to spend your vacation.
Summer School: Summer School is scheduled for June 23 to July
25 from 8:00 AM to 1:15 PM. General information and enrollment forms can be accessed at www.spef4kids.com. Priority walk-in registration for incoming SPUSD seniors will be held at the SPUSD district office on Wednesday, April 23 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
True Colors: All Junior English classes have already completed
the True Colors program. This program helps students identify personality characteristics, values, and skills in themselves and others. It is also used as a tool to help direct students toward potential college majors or careers that they may be well suited for. Ask your student about this experience and what they have learned about themselves.
Programming 2008-2009 Classes: Programming took place in March.
Students were met with individually to review graduation requirement status
and to select courses for their senior year. Each student was instructed to
have parents/guardians review and sign the Course Request Form.
Community Service: 45 hours of community service are part of
the graduation requirements. Complete your services hours as soon as possible and give the required forms to Mrs. Barela in Student Services. Keep a copy of submitted hours for your own records.
Student Athletes: Be sure you have registered with the NCAA
Clearinghouse to be eligible to play a sport at a Division 1 or II school. www.ncaa.org.
Websites: Here are a few more websites to check out.
xap.com (Comprehensive web site for college search and applications.)
petersons.com ( Comprehensive college site. Check out new online customized
SAT or ACT test prep course.)
collegeanswer.com (College planning site sponsored by Sallie Mae)
fastweb.com (Scholarship info: start looking now.)
The Counseling Center is always a buzz with activity; however,
we always have time for your questions or concerns either by appointment, phone
Sincerely,
SPHS Counselors
