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Norwood Junior High

Norwood Junior High

College & Career

College & Career

College & Career

Planning for College years and a career can seem far away when you are in in Junior High.  But it is never to early to start!  We strive to provide all students with High School planning information by delivering guidance curriculum through our 6-Year Plans presentations . It is our goal that every student promotes to High School with a viable 6-Year Plan and with the understanding of graduation requirements and college entry requirements.  Additionally, we will be providing our students with an opportunity to explore career opportunities using career interest inventories during career presentations from CA Career Zone.  Below are tips as you begin planning for high school, college and careers!

Plan for the Years Ahead

  • Meet with your counselor to discuss your high school future.  Make sure you review your schedule and that you are enrolled in the appropriate classes that will meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
  • Start a calendar with important dates and deadlines: 8th grade parent night, high school orientation, campus tours, etc.
  • Talk to friends, teachers, and your counselor to find out about what clubs and extracurricular activities are offered at your high school.
  • Start thinking about life after high school.  Visit your high school's College & Career Center.
Learn about High School
  • What classes are offered at your high school?  What are the graduation requirements?
  • What sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities are offered?
  • Remember that you are responsible for your grades, attendance and behavior
Prepare for Exams
  • Take the PSAT in 9th, 10th and 11th grade (if possible).  This will help gauge your expected score on the SAT and help you asses which colleges or universities that will be a good fit for you.
  • Take the SAT and/or the ACT test in the Spring of your 11th grade year and in the Fall of your 12th grade year.
Explore Summer Opportunities
  • Make the most of your summer vacations by participating in summer programs such as: camps, summer school, academic outreach programs, and subject specific academies.
  • Participate in volunteer work or an internship in a area of interest.
  • Attend community college summer classes
  • Start a summer reading list.  Ask you teachers to recommend books.
Tips for Parents
  • Assist your child with setting realistic goals and encouraging them to take steps to achieve them.
  • Encourage your child to get involved in school activities.  Attend sports and performances to show your support.
  • Set expectations with your child about daily school attendance and success.
  • Attend back to school night, parent-teacher conferences and open houses.
  • Keep an eye out for interim and midterm report cards.  If you don't get one from your child, call the school and request a copy.
  • Help your child stay organized.
  • It is your child's responsibility to get homework done and prepare for tests, but provide support for homework challenges and follow up with questions after tests.
  • Work together with the school.  Make appointments to meet with counselors, teachers, and administrators to check in on your child's progress.