High School Information

September - 

The 8th grade counselor will meet with all of the students to discuss High School options.  While most of our students continue to JBHS, there are several options if students are interested.  We want to ensure that students and families are aware of all of their options so they can make the most informed decision possible.  During this discussion, students will be given information regarding surrounding school programs, such as Tech High Schools, Performing Arts Programs & STEM High Schools, including their Open House Dates and contact information.  

October -

The 8th grade students visit Joel Barlow, where they discuss their schedules, clubs and activities, and speak with a panel of current Joel Barlow students.  During this presentation, students learn about courses and extracurricular activities offered for 9th grade. Following the presentation, students have the opportunity to ask questions. 

Early January -

Joel Barlow Program of Studies Orientation Evening: Each year, JBHS hosts an orientation for incoming 9th grade families to take part in an overview of JBHS. This is an opportunity to become acquainted with the school, meet school personnel, and ask questions.

Mid January -

The 8th grade parent portal in PowerSchool will open for parents to register course requests in January and will remain open for a week. In the portal, you will find teacher recommendations for classes. Please note that teacher recommendations for both Math and Science will be entered in January, prior to the JBHS course scheduling day. 

Late January -

Math midterm and Course Scheduling Day! Joel Barlow High School Counselors will meet with each 8th grade student individually at John Read Middle School to discuss course recommendations, world language choices, and elective options. The meeting times are 15 minutes long, and Parents/Guardians are welcome to attend. ALL students will attend this meeting, regardless of alternate high school plans or programming.  Sometimes, a student may plan to attend an alternate high school and return to Barlow. In this case, JBHS will have a schedule for the student upon immediate registration. 

If you have any questions regarding this timeline or if you would like to discuss other high school options, please contact your child’s counselor at JRMS.  Once your child's schedule for Freshman year at JBHS is complete, please contact the appropriate Joel Barlow counselor with any questions.