Interest surveys to begin to think about areas of interest

Start exploring individual strengths and weaknesses

Start selecting electives based on interests

Begin to think about possible post-secondary goals and future career fields

Determine high school programs (vocational tech programs, private high school or public) that align with post-secondary goals

Attend high school open house the spring of 8th grade and 9th grade orientation during the summer prior to entering high school

Meet school counselor and identify “go to” staff members 

Attend an activity/club fair in the beginning of the school year

Begin to join extracurricular activities

Meet with counselor to become familiar with graduation requirements

Attend meeting to learn about Naviance (or system being used by district) and how to generate interests and post-secondary options

Start documenting community service activities and hours

Begin to think about post-secondary goal(s)

Begin to think about future career goal(s)

In the spring, meet with school counselor/case manager to discuss courses for tenth grade 

Review grades, activities, community service and how they align with post-secondary goals

Continue enrolling in foreign language courses that align with post-secondary goals

Take the PSAT

If applicable, take any AP tests

Become familiar with college entrance requirements

Continue to be an active participant in your school and community (clubs, sports, community service)

Begin to think about college options (region, size, cost, programs, residence life or commuting)

Explore Naviance in more depth

If considering military, explore requirements and possible ROTC programs

Begin to choose more academically challenging elective course

Begin to develop a resume

Continue to plan and take challenging academic courses that align with graduation requirements

Participate in PSAT, ACT, SAT or other entrance examines as applicable

Continue to use Naviance to generate a list of possible careers based on areas of interest.

Become more familiar of college entrance requirements

Develop a list of potential schools and requirements

Begin to participate in college tours and presentations

Attend college fairs to gather information on post-secondary options

Attend a junior meeting with school counselor to learn the college application process

Attend a financial aide night

Update resume (include academics and extracurriculars)

Consider part-time employment or community service to develop independence and   interpersonal skills 

Start to explore the requirement to obtain scholarships

Continue to practice driving skills in order to obtain a driver's license when of age.

If applicable, register to vote

Begin to consider individuals/staff members to ask for letters of recommendations

Learn about obtaining a 504 Plan at the post-secondary level

Begin draft of college essay

In early fall, attend a meeting with school counselor to monitor application process and to ensure that all graduation requirements are in place at the start of senior year

In the fall, continue to attend college tour and presentations

Select individuals/staff for letters of recommendations

Solidify resume

Complete college essay in the fall of senior year

In the fall, complete the FAFSA form

Participate in SAT and/or ACT if applicable

Complete and submit college application if applicable

In the fall and winter, continue to explore various scholarship options

In early Winter, meet with school counselor to ensure that all necessary information has been submitted along with college applications

Continue to participate in extracurricular activities, sports and part-time employment

Take AP exam if applicable

Make college acceptance decision by May 1st

Once post-secondary program is identified, take any necessary placement tests

Gather all the documents needed in order to obtain a 504 Plan at college

Apply to DVRS if applicable

Attend college orientation   

Eligibility for special education services ends once the school year in which the student turns 21 is completed 

Accessing services through adult systems and providers that will help them reach their goals for continued learning, employment, and community involvement 

If your child no longer wants to live at home, explore housing options and residential supports