FAQ

What is a "cohort"?

A student's cohort is the year that they are expected to graduate based on when they first entered 9th grade. For example, a student who entered 9th grade in August 2022 is expected to graduate at the end of this school year in May 2026. Our counselors' caseloads are established by cohort, so it is important to know a student's cohort in order to contact the appropriate counselor.

What is the difference between a student's cohort and grade level?

As mentioned above, a student's cohort is their expected graduation year based on when they entered 9th grade. A student's cohort will always remain the same. A student's grade level is based on how many high school credits a student has earned. This means it is possible for a student to be in a different grade level than other students in their same Cohort. Grade level promotion requirements are as follows:

• 9th grade - less than 5 credits

• 10th grade - 5 credits 

• 11th grade - 11 credits

• 12th grade - 17 credits

What is advisement?

Advisement is when a school counselor meets with a student (and parents/guardians, if possible) to discuss the student's academic progress and needs, courses for the following school year, postsecondary goals, and any other issues or concerns they have. Each student is provided at least one advisement every school year with their assigned school counselor. 

How can a student make up credits for graduation?

The options for recovering credits required for graduation vary depending on the student's course plan and credit recovery alternatives available. A student's school counselor will inform them of available opportunities and make a recommendation for their best course of action. As a department, we strongly encourage students to do their best to pass their courses the first time to avoid the stress of being off track for graduation in the first place.

How can a student get their schedule changed?

A student can make a schedule change request during the designated schedule change window that will be communicated by the Counseling Department. During that time, school counselors will review requests and respond to the student via email with a denial or approval of their request. Students are not promised schedule changes will be granted, and students are not granted schedule change requests that are based on teacher or period preferences.

How does someone request a meeting with a school counselor?

Each counselor has their own style for scheduling meetings, but you can start by checking your/your student's cohort and emailing the appropriate counselor to request an appointment. Click HERE to see our counselors' caseload and contact information.

What is Naviance?

Naviance is a tool that CCPS uses to support our students' college and career readiness. Students access Naviance via their CCPS ClassLink Portal. At CDHS, our students complete their grade-level-specific tasks to examine their strengths and interests, explore different career paths, research and apply to colleges/universities, seek out scholarship opportunities, and so much more! 

What is Common App?

Common App is a free, public website that students use to apply to up to 20 participating colleges/university using just one application. It streamlines their application processes. Students are able to create their Common App account and then follow instructions in this VIDEO to "match" their Common App to their Naviance. You can also view the video below.

Why does a student need to match Common App to their Naviance?

A student can complete their Common App independently, but their school counselor will not have access to support their applications with academic information, transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc. School counselors do have access to a student's Naviance. By matching their Common App to their Naviance, students allow their school counselors to monitor their progress with postsecondary planning and support any applications being completed. View the video below or click this LINK to learn how to complete this process.