Secondary Resources
The Office of College, Career, and Life Readiness provides workshops and services to assist area districts in maintaining comprehensive school guidance and counseling programs.
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Training Topics
Counselors Academy 2022-23
Register here for all session: Secondary Counselors Academy: 234453
To register for single session click on the workshop numbers for each session below.
Date WKSP # Session
10/06/2022 238834 Financial Aid Updates TASFA - TxCAN Scholarships - STAR VAMOS
College Admissions Fair-STAR NETWORK-
College Admissions Testing Update
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
11/10/2022 238910 HB5 Update-Graduation Requirements, Special Education Codes
CTE Career and Technical Education,
School Counseling Resources/TEA Updates/ Data in School Counseling - Stephanie Lerner
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
12/13/22 238918 Trauma Informed School Counseling / Building Resilience in Students - Zoom
1/17/23 238921 Stress, Anxiety, and Anger Management with a Bit of Growth Mindset
Mental Health Guidance Lessons: Tier 1 School Counseling
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Zoom in Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room in the afternoon
3/7/23 238923 Suicide and LGBTQ 101
Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room
Student Support Groups: Tier 2 School Counseling presented by Stephanie Learner
Zoom-Hidalgo/Cameron/Willacy Room in the afternoon
REGISTRATION FEE:
$150.00 for each full day session
$750.00 for all sessions
Workshop#234453
Contact Information:
Jennifer Avelar, Guidance and Counseling Lead
Office of College, Career and Life Readiness
javelar@esc1.net
YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID
Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 6-18.
Audience:
Teachers, counselors, school staff, coaches, camp counselors, youth leaders, parents, adults who work with youth
Workshop Information:
Blended – Learners complete a 2-hour self-paced online course, and participate in a 4.5-5.5-hour, Instructor-led video-conference training. All sessions are from 8:00am to 4:30pm
DATES AND REGISTRATION LINKS:
September 13, 2022 Workshop #241352
September 15, 2022 Workshop #241359
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Claudia Garcia, cgarcia@esc1.net, 956.984.6244
Marissa Chavana, machavana@esc1.net, 956.984.6241
Jessica F. Viacobo, jviacobo@esc1.net 956-984-6015
See Flyer
Webinar: Navigating Mental Health in the School Environment
Texas Action for Healthy Kids is hosting their Navigating Mental Health in the School Environment webinar on October 10, 2022. Mental and behavioral health services in schools are traditionally focused on individual students. However, creating a positive school environment that supports the “whole child” is an important component that can contribute to a culture of positivity and support for students. Join Action for Healthy Kids as they share how to make your school district one that supports mental and physical wellbeing. Register for the event.
6th Summit on Advancing Behavioral Health Collaboration
Registration is free and now open!
Register at https://bit.ly/ABCSummit22
ADVANCING WELLNESS AND RESILIENCY IN EDUCATION:
You're Invited
The 6th Advancing Behavioral Health Collaboration (ABC) Annual Summit will be held virtually.
Presentations will focus on ways to elevate and integrate school mental health and wellness to support the whole child by advancing school mental health practices and strengthening community partnerships. Exemplars from across the state will showcase best practices, share insights and provide resources for local implementation.
November 29th, November 30th & December 1st
9:00 am - 2:00 pm (CST) via Zoom
November 29 Tier 1- Universal Interventions
November 30 Tier 2- Targeted Interventions
December 1 Tier 3- Intensive Interventions
Who should attend?
Participation is encouraged for professionals working in education service centers, local education agencies, state agencies and community organizations who desire to support schools, learn from colleagues, and strengthen student mental health in Texas. Please join us!
In collaboration with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission
OCTOBER IS NATIONAL BULLYING PREVENTION MONTH
Bullying can affect everyone—those who are bullied, those who bully, and those who witness bullying. Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide.
Our partners at David's Legacy Foundation will be conducting a webinar. Participants will obtain an increased awareness of bullying and cyberbullying. This community issue is the responsibility of everyone.
David’s Legacy Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to eliminate cyberbullying and bullying, of children and teens, through education, legislation, and legal action. David's Legacy fulfills their mission through PEACE:
Protecting children and teens from all types of bullying
Educating communities about the harmful effects of cyber abuse
Advocating for families in crisis, facilitating legal assistance through pro-bono lawyers
Celebrating student-driven anti-bullying, kindness and inclusion initiatives
Empowering young people to practice digital empathy and self-care.
Register for the webinar here: Workshop # 254245
Online session
Resources:
| Bully Checklist |TxSSC Bully Checklist | TxSSC Bully Resources | TASB Bullying,
Cyberbullying, and Hazing | DFPS Bully Prevention Toolkit, David's Legacy Foundation
Contact Information:
Jessica F. Viacobo, Specialist for School Health and Counseling
jviacobo@esc1.net 956-984-6015
Join the U.S. Department of Education for the Fall 2022
Mental Health Learning Series
Join the U.S. Department of Education for a 3-part webinar series on promoting promising practices, resources and understanding existing barriers to mental health services for students. A new school year has begun and the nation is facing a youth mental health crisis. This webinar series will tackle pressing issues facing the field and will highlight ways to support student mental health, increase access to services, and support the whole child. As federal resources, including the existing American Rescue Plan funds, continue to become available for states and districts to support student well-being, the Department will share promising practices and lessons learned from schools, districts, and national experts, in an effort support the field to help students thrive.
Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at 4:00pm:
Evidence in Action: How States and Districts can Promote Mental Health
Register here: https://ed-gov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_pGC8FuIzSoq4I6f_mb9TyQ
Tuesday, October 11, 2022 at 4:00pm:
The Importance of Trauma Informed Pedagogy and Student Identity in Mental Health
Register here: https://ed-gov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_u2Bu961dSDKLwt5HtdDgbA
Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 4:00pm:
Reducing Stigma and Improving Access to Mental Health Services
Register here: https://ed-gov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_A6VzFzoFQBuX1Ttwn941BA
Topic: HB 5 Chapter 74 Updates: Curriculum Requirements, Graduation Requirements (9/2020)
Meeting Recording:
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Scholarship Information
FAFSA Is Open!!!
The 2022-23 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) launched at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. New and returning students who plan to attend college between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, should complete the FAFSA as soon as possible. To assist students and parents in the process, the Department’s Federal Student Aid (FSA) office has been sharing tips @FAFSA, including “7 Things You Need Before Filling Out the FAFSA Form” and “8 Steps to Completing the FAFSA Form.”
FSA continues to take steps to make it easier to complete and submit the FAFSA form. For example:
· students’ prior drug convictions, as well as registration status with Selective Service, no longer affect their federal student aid eligibility;
· gov is even easier to navigate to get help and information, with an entirely new look and feel; and
· in most states, applicants only see the questions on the FAFSA form that pertain to them.
Students and parents may complete the FAFSA form online at FAFSA.gov and through the myStudentAid mobile application.
In related news, the Department released the latest federal student loan cohort default rate, which decreased (from 9.7% to 7.3%) for students who entered repayment between fiscal years 2017 and 2018 and subsequently defaulted before September 30, 2020. This new cohort default rate represents the lowest national rate since the three-year rate was first released in 2012. Schools with high default rates may lose their eligibility to participate in federal student aid programs.
Get your answers on what the form is and how to start the process.
• The Beginner's Guide to Financial Aid
• 2022-23 Financial Aid and FAFSA State Deadlines
• Why Parents Should Fill Out the FAFSA
• Why Should I Complete the FAFSA?
• After the FAFSA: What to Do Once You've Submitted Yours
Find what you need to fill out the FAFSA and other helpful financial aid tools:
• How to Submit a FAFSA through the myStudentAid Mobile App
• Quick Tips for Filing Your FAFSA
• 10 FAFSA Mistakes that Affect Financial Aid
Understand what common terms you may encounter when working with all types of financial aid. Learn the best tools to help you understand how it all works:
The Best Financial Aid and Loan Calculators
• Understand Your Student Aid Report
• The Beginner's Guide to Financial Aid
• 15 Questions to Ask Your Financial Aid Office
• Dropping Out Means Paying Back Financial Aid
• Questions to Ask About Your Financial Aid Package
When it comes to paying for school, things do not always go as planned. Below are some common concerns, and student or family circumstances related to financial aid:
• Federal Financial Aid and the Independent Student
• How Do I Become Independent on the FAFSA If I Am Under Age 24?
• Which parent is responsible for completing the financial aid application?
• Does Filing a FAFSA Obligate You in Any Way? Are Parents Responsible for Repaying a Child's Student Loans?
• Financial Aid without Filing the FAFSA?
FASTWEB
Our national scholarship directory allows students to view scholarships by school year, unique circumstances and many other categories. This resource is available to all students in addition to the scholarship matches based on their profile. View the listings below and share with your students:
Fastweb's National Scholarship Directory
NEW: We are happy to share with you Fastweb's $1,000 Own Your Scholarship Journey Sweepstakes. All students 16+ are eligible.
Scholarships for 2022
Scholarship opportunities are available for all students, from high school juniors to those in their final year of grad school. Our two new resources highlight scholarships for students to apply to now, and throughout the year. Share these resources today:
Do you know of a scholarship from your school or a community organization? Send Fastweb the information and our research team will review it for our scholarship database. Email to: scholarships@fastweb.com.
UTRGV Tuition Advantage
EXCITING NEWS FOR FALL 2022-SPRING 2023
As always - and especially now - UTRGV understands the importance of supporting our students and families by making the university experience more affordable.
We are proud to announce an expansion of the UTRGV Tuition Advantage grant. Launching in Fall 2022, this program will now cover the cost of tuition and mandatory fees for students with a family income of $100,000 or less** who have unmet financial need.
Learn more about the Tuition Advantage grant link below to see if you qualify.
News Update: TAMIU Automatic Freshman Scholarship Program Expands Student Opportunities
First-time freshmen admitted to Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) by February 1, 2022 can now access an expanded world of Automatic Freshman Scholarship Program opportunities.
Students meeting criteria can receive four-year automatic scholarships ranging from $16,000 to $32,000. These non-transferable awards apply to Fall 2022-Spring 2023 tuition and fees at TAMIU, said TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz.
“With this expanded opportunity we can ramp up our commitment to providing a broad range of students and their families the scholarship support they have earned to help secure their higher education dreams. For over 50 years, TAMIU’s mission has been laser-focused on making higher education accessible, affordable, and excellent. I am certain students and their families will be excited by this opportunity and the security the scholarships can provide in helping them finance their University degree,” Dr. Arenaz said.
Arenaz said the expanded Automatic Freshman Scholarship Program has already enabled the University to include an additional 100 students in its first round of scholarship offers. He noted students need only fulfill one of the requirements in four set scholarship award categories. The requirements are driven by one of the following: 1) high school ranking 2) SAT Scores or 3) ACT Scores.
November
American Indian Services Scholarship
American Indian Services (AIS) is a nonprofit charitable organization that provides undergraduate Native American students with financial support to attend college, maintain enrollment and graduate through scholarships. Awards are based on up to one-half of tuition and need for the term the student is applying for.
Award Amount: $500-$2,000
Deadline: November 1, 2022
Learn more and apply for the American Indian Services Scholarship.
H&P Veterans Helping Veterans Scholarship
Following active duty service, many United States military veterans choose to earn a higher education degree. This path can help former military service members adapt to civilian life and launch a fulfilling future, whether through a community college or state university. The Hill & Ponton Law Firm sponsors this scholarship to help veterans pursue higher education.
Award Amount: 3 awards; $1,000 each
Deadline: November 1, 2022
Learn more and apply for the H&P Veterans Helping Veterans Scholarship.
Make the U Scholarship
At Colgate, we believe that higher education is a path to a brighter future and are dedicated to Hispanic students. That's why, in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, we have created "Haz La U" (Make the U), a college grant program for Hispanic high school seniors.
Have you focused on academic excellence, dedicated service to your community, and demonstrated leadership? Your effort could be rewarded by winning one of 31 educational grants* with a total support of $100,000.
Eligibility:
• Be currently enrolled in high school and graduating in the spring of 2023
• Must have a minimum unweighted 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale or 7.5 on a 10.0 scale
• Must enroll at an accredited higher education institution in 2023-2024
• Be of Hispanic heritage (includes Spain, Brazil, Philippines)
• If selected, attendance to virtual regional awards ceremony is mandatory
• Be a U.S. permanent resident, U.S. citizen, or qualify under the DACA
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: November 13, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Make the U Scholarship.
Concerto High School Musicians Scholarship
"The President's Own" United States Marine Band, in conjunction with the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, is pleased to announce its Concerto Competition for High School Musicians is open for applications.
Award Amount: 3 awards; $500-$2,500
Deadline: November 15, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Concerto High School Musicians Scholarships.
Flip Flops and Apple Sauce Marketing Scholarship
Flip Flops and Apple Sauce reviews all kinds of products in a many different categories. These reviews are created to cover all the important aspects of each product and give the user the best advice possible. Though we ourselves are most familiar with internet marketing there are a lot of similarities and traits that teach similar things like business and traditional marketing. We know how important these qualities are and we want to help support a lucky student with this.
With that in mind, to apply for this scholarship all you have to do is write an article of 500-1000 words of what you feel are the most significant similarities and differences between traditional marketing and internet marketing.
Award Amount: $1,000
Deadline: November 15, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Flip Flops and Apple Sauce Marketing Scholarship.
James Alan Cox Photography Scholarships
College or technical school students applying for these scholarships must have completed one year at a accredited college, university or professional school (student must therefore be a sophomore or older), and have taken courses in photography or photojournalism. Graduate students applying for a scholarship should be enrolled in a journalism or photojournalism program.
High school, college and graduate students should have at least one semester remaining at the time the scholarship is awarded.
Award Amount: Multiple awards; $2,500 each
Deadline: November 15, 2022
Learn more and apply for the James Alan Cox Photography Scholarships.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship
The Cooke College Scholarship Program is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation's best four-year colleges and universities.
Award Amount: Multiple awards; $1,000 each
Deadline: November 17, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship.
PetonBed.com Scholarship
We’re looking for essays that incorporate animal research, veterinary content, as well as personal stories and thoughts on the following topics. If you’re looking to become a veterinarian, or perhaps want to return to college to start a new career, we want to help you fulfill your dreams with our $800 PetOnBed.com Scholarship Program for 2022.
Topics include:
Successful housetraining for cats and dogs
Are heated pet beds safe?
Dog beds
Indoor rabbit hutch
Guinea pig cage
Cat collars
Dog collars
Award Amount: First Place - $500; second place - $300
Deadline: November 28, 2022
Learn more and apply for the PetonBed.com Scholarship.
Creative Excellence in Graphic Design Scholarship
DesignAShirt.com is pleased to offer the Creative Excellence in Graphic Design which is made up of (two) $500 scholastic awards granted annually to the most qualified and deserving U.S. undergraduates or graduates. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Enrollment Status – Full or Part-Time with a minimum of six credits or hours. A current undergraduate or graduate majoring in Graphic Arts & Design, Fashion or related field Currently enrolled with an accredited U.S. university, college or institution of higher learning Recorded minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
Applicant students enrolled in Graphic Design must submit a 1000-word essay on how design impacts branding along with a sample of their own creative.
Applicant students enrolled in Fashion must submit a 1000-word essay on how fashion styles influence branding with attached images of styles that support their essay.
The design should showcase the applicant’s design skills/fashion knowledge and abilities. The essay should reflect their passion for design/fashion and highlight academic achievements, experience and future goals relating to graphic design, art or fashion.
Award Amount: 2 awards; $500
Deadline: November 30, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Creative Excellence in Graphic Design Scholarship.
Education Matters Scholarship
While continuing your education takes time, and money, there's a certain value that everyone is hoping to achieve. The Education Matters Scholarship is giving you the chance to state why education matters. Why does education matter to you? What is the value you hope to receive from college? What would you do to convince the college cynics?
This award is for U.S. students.| Must be 14 years of age or older to apply.| Must be a legal U.S. resident.| Must reside in the 50 United States or the District of Columbia.
Submit an online written response to the question:
"What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn't matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?" (250 words or less)
Award Amount: $5,000
Deadline: November 30, 2022
Learn more and apply for the Education Matters Scholarship.
Additional November Scholarships
Looking for more? Here's a list of additional scholarships with November deadlines. Learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply through the links provided below.
American Indian Services Scholarship
Auger and Auger Disabled Scholar Award
Bachus and Schanker, LLC Scholarship
Boho Hippie Shop Scholarship Program
CardsDirect Future Designer Scholarship
Concerto High School Musicians Scholarship
Creative Excellence in Graphic Design Scholarship
Cross and Smith Offering Annual College Scholarship
Doctor Sniffs Science Major Scholarship
Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders
Dressel/Malikschmitt Social Justice Scholarship
Driver Education Initiative Scholarship
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition
Flip Flops and Applesauce Marketing Scholarship
Good Colleges Study Abroad Award
GreenPal's Small Business Scholarship
H&P Veterans Helping Veterans Scholarship
Helmer, Conley & Kasselman Annual College Scholarship
Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship
James Alan Cox Photography Scholarship
Mental Health Education Scholarship
National Association for Campus Activities Scholarship
National Honor Society Scholarship
National Space Club Keynote Scholarship
Prudential Emerging Visionaries Scholarship
Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship
School for International Training Study Abroad Scholarship
Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship
Soroptimist Live Your Dreams Awards
Sports Clips 'Help a Hero' Scholarship
STD Labs 'Test Yourself' Scholarship
Tortuga Backpack Study Abroad Scholarship
Scholarships are forms of aid, too. Discover everything about scholarships, from how you can better fill out applications to maximizing your opportunities to win more.
• Are Financial Aid and Scholarships the Same Thing?
• Fastweb's Scholarship Directory
WHAT'S YOUR DREAM?
We want to know... what do you dream about? Whether it's some bizarre dream you had last week, or your hopes for the future, share your dreams with us for a chance to win our $1,500 I Have A Dream Scholarship.
Valley Scholars Program Details
Eligibility Requirements:
Be a 2022 graduate from an accredited Hidalgo or Starr County high school with no previous college degree(s)
Graduate from high school in the top 10 percent or with a high school average of 80 or above
Earn a 3.25 cumulative GPA for any college courses completed during high school
Be TSI (Texas Success Initiative) College Ready or TSI Exempt
Enroll full-time at South Texas College and pursue an Associate Degree
How to Apply:
Apply Online at South Texas College
Submit Transcripts and TSI Scores on application
May already be on file at STC
Priority Deadline – March 31st, 2023
We are asking for your assistance in sharing this scholarship opportunity with your Seniors and encouraging them to apply. The number of seats this year is limited to 25 so it is important that they apply before our March 31st priority deadline.
Questions:
Lacy Culpepper
Coordinator of the
Academic Excellence Programs
(956) 872-6453
lculpepp@southtexascollege.edu
MORE SCHOLARSHIPS
Unigo All About Education Scholarship Winner
Deadline - September 30
Deadline: 9/30/22
Award Amount: $1,000
The Don't Text and Drive Scholarship is available to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. To be considered, you must submit a 140 - character message about texting while driving.
Deadline: 11/30/22
Award Amount: $3,000
The Driver Education Initiative Award: In the Driver's Seat, is open to current high school and college students. You must submit an essay of no more than 500 words that answers the following questions: What is the importance of driver education in reducing the number deaths as a result of driving? What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving? Have you ever had an experience of being in car accident or have seen your friends or family members driving irresponsibly? What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road?
Deadline: 12/31/22
Award Amount: $2,000
The Financial Goals Scholarship is available to students who are 18 years of age or older. To be considered, you must submit a 500 - word essay on the following topic: "Tell us about a financial goal that you have. Explain why you want to achieve this goal and how you plan to do so."
Find your personalized scholarships with Unigo Scholarship Match!
Scholarship Opportunities from Our Partners
Cobell Scholarship
Both merit- and need-based, the Cobell Scholarship is available to members of a U.S. federally recognized tribe who are enrolled in full-time study and seeking degrees. Applicants must plan to attend or be attending any nationally, regionally, or industry accredited nonprofit, public, or private institution. The academic year 2022-23 undergraduate and graduate scholarship applications are now open. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2022. The summer scholarships application will be available February 15 through May 3, 2022. Learn more.
More Scholarship Material:
https://www.collegegreenlight.com/
LEDA website: www.ledascholars.org
LEDA brochure: www.ledascholars.org/brochure
LEAD Flyer: ledascholars.org/flyer
https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/grants-scholarships/finding-scholarships
Big Future
All Juniors Are Eligible for a $40K BigFuture Scholarship
BigFuture rewards college planning effort. All juniors who build a list with six or more colleges by February 28 will be entered into this month's scholarship drawings. Every month (403 KB), we select two $40,000 winners and hundreds of $500 recipients. Send juniors to bigfuture.org/ startyourlist.
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college
https://www.studentscholarshipsearch.com/
https://www.salliemae.com/college-planning/tools/scholarship-search/
https://cafecollege.org/scholarship-databases/
Find scholarships:
https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx
U.S. Department of Education
They have enhanced Loan Counseling, the myStudentAid Mobile App, and much more...
Federal Student Aid has reenvisioned entrance and exit counseling to provide customers with a streamlined, personalized, and web-friendly experience. Entrance and exit counseling are crucial for borrowers to understand the responsibilities associated with taking out federal student loans.
The enhanced entrance counseling features:
simplified, easy-to-understand learning modules;
integration with the College Scorecard so borrowers can make informed decisions about their education and loans;
new knowledge check questions to reinforce key concepts; and
integrated loan repayment simulations to show borrowers the impact of different repayment plans.
The updated exit counseling includes:
personalized loan information to help inform borrowers about their specific loan balances, repayment options, and responsibilities;
a tool to simulate the impact of using different repayment plans; and
a summary of the next steps toward successful repayment.
In addition to the updates to entrance and exit counseling, the borrower defense application is now available in Spanish.
Lastly, they have added three features to the myStudentAid mobile app: Status Center, My Documents, and Contact Us.
These added features deliver on the promise to continue enhancing the myStudentAid mobile app and to provide an equitable and inclusive experience for all of their customers.
TEA - Information
New & Noteworthy
TEA recently released and new webpage with information concerning Fentanyl. This information will be in our November newsletter and is already posted on the Title IV, Part A State Initiative website on the home page, Substance Use page, and Parent Resource page. In addition, we want to remind you of training that can be provided to or requested by ESCs and districts on drug impairment and current drug trends.
TEA Fentanyl Response Communications Toolkit: The Fentanyl Response Communications Toolkit is designed to provide communications resources and support to school systems to educate their school communities on the growing dangers of Fentanyl.
Drug Impairment Training for Educational Professionals: The purpose of the DITEP (Drug Impairment Training for Educational Professionals) Program is to provide school administrators, teachers, and nurses with a systematic approach to recognizing and evaluating individuals in the academic environment who are using or are impaired by drugs, to provide early intervention.
Drug Demand Reduction Outreach: Provides training and resources to schools and communities.
Reach out to KEVIN L. HAGER, CW2, FA, TXARNG - Drug Demand Reduction Outreach OIC Joint Counterdrug Task Force Office: 512-782-6734 Cell: 512-413-7350 Email: kevin.l.hager2.mil@army.mil
New Trainings:
TEA Webinars/Virtual Training
TEA Human Trafficking Webinar Series - October 14 | 10:30-11:30 am
Overviewing Marshal Program startup and best practices. | October 14 | Registration required
Virtual - 2022 Advancing Behavioral Health Collaboration (ABC) Summit | November 29-December 1 | 9:00-2:00 pm | Registration Free | CEUs available | More information
TEA Highly Mobile and At-Risk Webinar - December 1 | 1:00 pm CT
Other Webinars/Virtual Training
Free Registration - Safe and Sound Schools 2022 Virtual National Summit on School Safety - October 18-20 | ESCs and LEAs complimentary registration with the code TXSSC_GUEST | Flyer | Event Website
Navigating Mental Health in the School Environments - October 10 | 11:30-12:30 pm CT
USDE The Importance of Trauma Informed Pedagogy and Student Identity in Mental Health -October 11 | 3 pm CT
Protecting Children in a Digital Age - October 20 | 11:30-12:30 pm CT
USDE Reducing Stigma and Improving Access to Mental Health Services - October 25 |3 pm CT
Sandy Hook Know the Signs TOTs
Start with Hello - Dates and Registration
Say Something - Dates and Registration
Advanced Say Something - Dates and Registration
US DOE Hot Topics - lessons learned and best practices from faculty, staff, schools, districts, institutions of higher education, early childhood education providers, and other places of educational instruction
The following new Texas Education Agency Correspondence has been posted at the TEA website:
Advising Updates
Effective Advising Framework
The Effective Advising Framework (EAF) Planning Pilot grant program is in its final months with an inaugural cohort of 8 education service centers supporting various districts across the state. The program supports districts who are interested in ramping up an individual student planning system within the context of their comprehensive school counseling program. Funds have been secured for additional grant opportunities in the 2022-2023 school year. Please check the TEA Grant Opportunities webpage for updates and contact lindsey.phillips@tea.texas.gov with questions.
School Counselor (SC) webpage updates:
SC FAQs (revised): https://tea.texas.gov/academics/learning-support-and-programs/school-guidance-and-counseling/school-counseling-faqs
SC Evaluation and Description (revised): https://tea.texas.gov/academics/learning-support-and-programs/school-guidance-and-counseling/school-counseling-job-description-evaluation
TEA Annual Report: https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/news-and-multimedia/annual-reports/annual-report
In accordance with Texas Education Code (TEC), §28.0256, beginning with students enrolled in 12th grade during the 2021-2022 school year, each student must do one of the following in order to graduate:
Complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
Complete and submit a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA); or
Submit a signed opt-out form.
Financial Aid Grade Requirement FAQs: https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/financial-aid-graduation-requirement-faqs
TEA has gathered many questions from school counselors, educators, and administrators; responses are provided in the FAQ document.
Senate Bill 279 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the intent of the bill?
The bill is intended to help prevent youth suicides. Providing national crisis-line numbers to students is a statewide suicide prevention strategy. The goal is to equip students with awareness, information, and immediate access to help in a crisis by providing the numbers for students to read on their student identification (IDs) issued by the school to students in grades 6-12.
2. Does a school need to provide the crisis numbers if our district uses digital student IDs, such as through an APP?
Yes. The national suicide prevention crisis-line numbers should be included on digital IDs, or other issued student IDs regardless of format, to meet the bill’s suicide prevention intent.
3. Can we use printed stickers with the crisis numbers securely affixed on our student IDs?
Yes.
4. Are we required to issue IDs if our school or district does not issue IDs to students?
No. The bill does not require that schools issue IDs if a school does not issue any IDs to students. However, it would be beneficial to have these crisis-line numbers available to students who do not have IDs.
5. What are the national crisis line numbers?
The current numbers for the 2021-2022 school year are: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) (1-800-273-TALK) (8255) and the Crisis Text Line (Text TX To 741741). If a school has already printed (Text HOME to 741741), that also works.
6. Might the numbers change for subsequent school years?
Yes. TEA has been informed that the NSPL number may change for the next school year.
TEA Statewide Plan for Student Mental Health (December 2020)
The Collaborative Task Force on Public School Mental Health Services (November 2020) External Report
Date: 2021-07-15
Division: Curriculum Standards and Student Support
Parental Options for Students to Repeat Grades or Courses
Curriculum Standards and Student Support
Date: 2021-07-15
Division: Governance and Accountability
SB 204 and Out-of-District Transportation Requirements, TEC §34.007 and Related Waivers
Governance and Accountability
Date: 2021-07-15
Division: Innovative Instructional Models
Innovative Instructional Models
South Texas Area Recruitment Network
Here are some of the updates and resources that were shared by TEA.
SC Leader Questionnaire: https://forms.gle/hpg1Ge82ApdEPr238
Financial aid webpage: https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/financial-aid-requirement
SC Website- https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/counseling-advising-student-supports
TAAs: https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/news-and-multimedia/correspondence
HB 4545 Parent Resource: https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/covid/support-to-help-ensure-your-child-is-on-track-this-school-year
Bill briefing book https://tea.texas.gov/sites/default/files/2021-briefing-book.pdf
SMH toolkit https://schoolmentalhealthtx.org/school-mental-health-toolkit/
List of CTE innovative courses added or to be added to programs of study:
For CTE/sped clarification, contact CTE@tea.texas.gov
Padlet for Notes on Legis Success/Challenges:
https://padlet.com/stephanielerner1/ztlecrc3vyl88bjy
TEA Child Abuse Prevention - https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/child-abuse-prevention/child-abuse-prevention-an-overview
TEA Human Trafficking Prevention - https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/other-services/human-trafficking-of-school-aged-children
The following new Texas Education Agency Correspondence has been posted at the TEA website:
Date: 2021-06-02
Title: Individual Graduation Committees for Seniors in SY 2020-2021
Division: Curriculum Standards and Student Support
The following new Texas Education Agency Correspondence has been posted at the TEA website:
Date: 2021-04-15
Title: Highest Ranking Graduate
Division: School Programs
In conjunction with Texas Education Code (TEC), §54.301, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides an opportunity for each public, charter, and accredited non-public high school in Texas to identify a student to award a "Highest Ranking Graduate” certificate and tuition waiver document. These documents shall be presented to the highest ranking graduate (HRG) in the senior class.
Visit the HRG "frequently asked questions" web page for additional information regarding the award.
Commissioner of Education Rules
The following rule action was filed with the Texas Register for publication in the September 11, 2020 issue:
Summary: The proposed new subchapter would implement Senate Bill 11, 86th Texas Legislature, 2019, by establishing rules for a safe and supportive school program and trauma-informed care.
Publication in the Texas Register: September 11, 2020
Public Comment Period: September 11, 2020-October 12, 2020. A form for submitting public comments is available on the proposed commissioner of education rules web page.
Proposed Effective Date: December 6, 2020
As mandated reporters, educators and other school staff must remain informed on the topic of child abuse. School personnel represent the largest professional resource for reporting suspected child abuse and neglect in Texas. Education leaders can promote awareness of Texas laws and the safety of Texas students by developing effective reporting policies, programs, and employee training.
The Texas Education Agency partnered with the Children's Advocacy Center's (CAC) of Texas to develop a toolkit for educators addressing child abuse identification and reporting responsibilities in-person and remotely. Below is a digital version of the toolkit.
Texas Gateway Online Resources by TEA
Student Support Updates
Child Abuse Prevention Month - April 2022
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and May is National Foster Care Month. Below are some helpful student support resources that TEA has released recently.
TEA’s Human Trafficking website has many resources and tools to help school personnel aid in the prevention of child abuse, neglect, and human trafficking. Two resources of particular interest are:
To learn more, visit TEA’s website or contact the team at PreventingHumanTrafficking@tea.texas.gov.
In collaboration with various partners such as Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, TEA has created the Texas Foster Care & Student Success Resource Guide as a resource to support Texas schools in addressing the education of students in foster care. Page 162 of this guide has a particularly helpful flowchart on the Child Protective Services process.
Featured Grief and Trauma Informed Training
Project Restore is a new trauma-informed training video series, which is designed to address the extraordinary and unprecedented needs our students and staff are facing this year. The Link to access training:
https://www.texasprojectrestore.org/
Counseling Updates
Stephanie Lerner is the Counselor Support Program Manager and serves as a primary point of contact for Texas school counselors. Stephanie's work supports the strong implementation of comprehensive school counseling programs that conform to the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. Stephanie has 27 years of experience in education as a school counselor, classroom teacher, school counseling trainer and author. You can reach Stephanie at Stephanie.Lerner@tea.texas.gov.
TEA's School Counseling website is under construction and will soon become the Counseling, Advising, and Student Supports website. Look for it in the next few weeks.
Advising Updates
Lindsey Phillips is the Effective Advising Program Manager. Her role is to identify and promote effective postsecondary advising practices as a key function of school counseling programs. Lindsey is currently leading a collaborative effort with stakeholders across the state to develop an Effective Advising Framework. Through this initiative, TEA will support school counselors and their administrators through aligning roles and responsibilities, setting goals, and continuously improving advising practices in a strategic effort to graduate students who are college, career, and military ready. Lindsey has six years of experience in education in 7th-12th grade school counseling, higher education admissions and financial aid and workforce development. You can reach Lindsey at lindsey.phillips@tea.texas.gov.
Questions & Concerns
TEHCY Hotline: 1-800-446-3142
TEHCY staff are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
TEHCY Email: tehcy@esc13.net
New Updates
Advising Updates
Big Future Student Profiles
The last CASS newsletter highlighted BigFuture Days, a series of virtual college fairs for high school sophomores and juniors to help connect them with hundreds of colleges, admissions officers, and current college students. Another valuable BigFuture advising tool is the Student Profiles. With this resource, students can hear directly from college students about their own college experience on topics such as what college is really like, what they wish they knew before applying, and how they overcame obstacles.
Texas Oncourse
Texas OnCourse offers a wide range of Texas-customized tools for Texas counselors and advisers. TEA works closely with Texas OnCourse to develop quality college and career resources. Do not miss the next Texas OnCourse Monthly Webinar, Enhance Your Advising Practice for Military-Bound Students, on March 16 at 10:00am CT. For asynchronous professional development opportunities through Texas OnCourse, counselors and advisers can complete online training at no cost through the Texas OnCourse Academy. Stay tuned in the months ahead for more information regarding new resources available through Texas OnCourse.
Summary: The new rule specifies applicable guidelines for the annual calculation of the College, Career, or Military Readiness (CCMR) Outcomes Bonus added by House Bill 3, 86th Texas Legislature, 2019. The new section was adopted without changes since published as proposed.
Effective Date: March 23, 2021
Please see the TEA website to view adopted commissioner of education rules.
Bullying - October is Bullying Prevention Month!
TEA Bully Standards - waiting for release
Standards will include details from TEC 37.0832
Campus Bully Prevention Committees
Bully student survey required
Required action plan based on survey results
Age appropriate instruction to each grade level (also required in Health TEKs)
Districts must prohibit and mediate
TASB updates to FFI Legal will be coming
Resources: Bully Prevention Webpage | Bully Checklist |TxSSC Bully Checklist | TxSSC Bully Resources | TASB Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Hazing | DFPS Bully Prevention Toolkit, David's Legacy Foundation
Substance Use/Abuse
Student Presentation from Texas National Guard Joint Counterdrug Task Force - Dead on Arrival Lesson Plan about the dangers of fentanyl and Narcan
Fentanyl Prevention Resources - U.S. DEA and CDC Opioid Basics
District Highlight - Hays CISD- https://www.hayscisd.net/fentanyl
UT San Antonio Health Grant - moreNARCANplease
Escape the Vape Training Modules | TxSSC
Human Trafficking
TEA Human Trafficking Webinar Series - October 14 | 10:30-11:30 am
School Board Training Requirements - every 2 years
Human Trafficking Prevention Website | Mandatory Reporting, Training & Reminders | TEA FAQ
Health TEKS - human trafficking addressed in grade level K-8 health TEKS
Title IX - Sexual Harassment | Sexual Discrimination
CCMR Information
Stay in Touch
Alexis Bauserman, Director of the CASS Team Alexis.Bauserman@tea.texas.gov
Stephanie Lerner, Counselor Support Program Manager Stephanie.Lerner@tea.texas.gov
Sara Vercher, Mental Health Program Manager Sara.Vercher@tea.texas.gov
Lindsey Phillips, Effective Advising Program Manager Lindsey.Phillips@tea.texas.gov
Eric Metcalf, Student Supports Program Manager Eric.Metcalf@tea.texas.gov
Sara Grunberger, Communities In School
Statewide Director Sara.Grunberger@tea.texas.gov
Amanda Longtain, Pathways Partnership Coordinator Amanda.Longtain@tea.texas.gov
Michael Willard, Advising Partnerships Manager Michael.Willard@tea.texas.gov
College Testing
TSIA Exemption Criteria
The TSIA is not necessary for many students, and there are many ways a student can be exempt. Students who qualify for a TSIA exemption can enroll in any entry-level college course without restrictions or prerequisites. In certain cases, students may qualify for an exemption in a specific area such as reading but not in another area such as mathematics or writing.
Students may be exempt if they meet one of the following criteria.
ACT
Composite score of 23 or higher with at least 19 on the English test and at least 19 on the math section
SAT
Minimum score of 530 on the math section and a minimum score of 480 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) for tests taken March 2016 or later
TSIA 2.0
Note: In response to user feedback and legislative requirements, improvements to the TSIA are reflected in the TSIA2. As of January 11, 2021, the original version of the TSIA is no longer available.
High school graduates who do not meet one or more of the benchmarks on the TSIA/TSIA2 or do not meet one of the TSI exemptions are required to participate in developmental education prior to, or together with, enrollment in certain freshman-level college courses.
The biggest differences between the TSI and TSIA2 are:
Consolidation of the ELA (English Language Arts) and Reading sections into one test now called ELAR
Reduction of diagnostics tests to one per subject area
Second chance pass opportunity for students for math through the diagnostic test
Ability for students to send scores directly to institutions at either the time of testing or afterward through the Student Portal
Resource: For more details regarding the TSIA content explore the TSIA Student Informative Brochure.
High School Options:
Successful completion of a college preparatory course
Score of at least 4000 on the English III and/or Algebra II STAAR end-of-course exams
New Score Benchmarks:
TSIA 2 ELAR College Ready Scores:
CRC 945 – 990 AND Essay 5 – 8
OR
CRC 910 – 944 AND Diagnostic Level 5 – 6 AND
Essay 5 – 8
TSIA 2 Math College Ready Scores:
CRC 950 – 990
OR
CRC 910 – 949 AND Diagnostic Level 6
For additional student resources and TSIA2 sample questions see the resources below:
You can also find TSIA2 resources for counselors and advisors, on the Texas OnCourse Academy. Their module titled Advising All Students to Be College Ready is a great resource and includes an entire unit on understanding the TSI and TSIA2. You can also watch the Texas OnCourse webinar Important Updates on the TSIA2 for more details on these updates, accommodations, and administration of the TSIA2. Hopefully, this summary and collection of resources will help you feel more confident and ready to help any student who comes your way.
Test Resources:
TSIA 2.0
Go to : https://tsia2.pearsonperspective.com
TSIA 2.0 App
https://practice.accuplacer.org/login
2021 AP Exam Updates for Counselors.
Here is the Link to Access the Recording and PowerPoint Presentation: https://globalmeet.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1424526&tp_key=44dde3da0a
AFFIRMING GENDER IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: SOCIAL TRANSITIONING
One of the first steps that all people—adults or children—take, if they feel their internal sense of gender and their sex assigned at birth do not match, is to socially transition. This means adults and children live their lives in a way that expresses their internal sense of who they are—their gender identity. A person may use a new name and/or different pronouns than before. Some might change their gender expression—wear different clothes or have a new hairstyle. Students usually want to—and have the right to—use facilities or join school activities that align with their gender identity.
PLANNING AND COMMUNICATIONS
● Social transitioning goes more smoothly for a student when school personnel and parents/ guardians (when affirming) work together and maintain regular communication and check-ins.
● Assess steps needed for your particular school and district to become more gender affirming.
○ What will help transgender and non-binary students—and all students—to feel safe at school?
○ Do you need professional development or advice to understand gender transitions and develop specific steps that your school could take?
○ Who do you need to communicate with in your school or district?
○ What policies or forms need to be reviewed, such as dress codes, bullying and harassment policies and student information systems?
● Develop common language on gender and social transitions that educators can use when talking with parents, families and colleagues while maintaining confidentiality for students. Help people understand the meaning of words related to gender and transitioning.
● Have resources available for adults to help them understand transgender and non-binary children.
● Each student and each family have different concerns about privacy and confidentiality around social transition. Ensure privacy and share information with school staff only on a need-to-know basis. Legally, it should be handled the same as a medical issue under FERPA and a student’s right to privacy.
● Educators should support students on their gender journey even if they do not have affirming family. School can be a supportive, affirming space for children to be themselves.
● Children are more resilient and able to cope when they feel affirmed and supported. Often, students who are transgender or non-binary have endured teasing and may not have felt safe to report it. Identify a safe person or people on staff for a student to talk to who will check in with them weekly while at school.
● Students have the right to talk about their transition with other students, but adults must carefully guard confidentiality. It is possible to have gender affirming schools without compromising the privacy of individual students.
● In school, it is the adults’ responsibility to help other students understand transitioning and gender, not the student’s.
● Identify key personnel responsible for answering more difficult questions or concerns parents and families may have and who can serve as a resource to others.
● If the media contacts your school or district, make sure that someone is prepared to respond and protect student privacy.
RESPECTING A STUDENT’S AFFIRMED GENDER
● Honor a student’s pronoun and name. Discuss with the student and their affirming parents/caregivers what name to use on forms and which gender marker to check. (Note: ensure your forms allow students’ gender identity to be written in rather than including only M or F as options.) Allow students and families to have the name that a student uses on lists that could be
seen by other students or families, such as class lists, grade postings or seating charts.
● Ensure that students are welcome and safe to wear the clothes, hairstyle and accessories that reflect their affirmed gender.
● Be thoughtful about class placement for transgender or non-binary students. Take into consideration the classroom teacher’s experience and training—in particular, their skills at developing a gender inclusive, welcoming classroom. Think about peer connections for the student.
● Be clear about restroom accessibility. Allow students to use the facilities that correspond with their gender identity. Have gender neutral restrooms available for all students who desire privacy for any reason.
● Avoid situations that force children to make gendered choices, such as lining up by boys and girls. Instead, divide students by last names, colors they’re wearing or common interests.
STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING A GENDER AFFIRMING SCHOOL
● Building a strong sense of community and a climate of acceptance in the classroom and school is a critical proactive strategy for creating a safe environment for all students, including those who identify as transgender and non-binary.
● Provide professional development for all school personnel—teachers, aides, counselors, administrative staff, bus drivers and cafeteria workers—on strategies to prevent and stop LGBTQ and gender based bullying.
● Educate adults in the school about the complexity of gender and the importance of gender inclusive classrooms for all students. Consider Welcoming Schools training on “Gender Inclusive Schools” and “Supporting Transgender and Non-Binary Students.”
● Adults in the school need time to practice and be prepared for questions and put-downs on gender with simple phrases to stop gendered teasing and bullying. Staff need practice intervening when students are limiting each other based on gender stereotypes, and they need to be ready to educate students on why it is wrong or hurtful.
● Listen for name-calling and bullying based on gender stereotypes, gender identity or gender expression, so that you can interrupt it and be clear that all students are welcome and respected in your school. Develop plans to have extra coverage in hallways, the playground and the lunchroom to monitor and stop hurtful teasing and bullying behavior.
● Work with the students in your school to help them think of ways to be allies when someone is teased or bullied for any reason. (See the Welcoming Schools lesson: Making Decisions: Ally or Bystander.)
● Talk with students about the harmful effects of stereotyping and prejudice. Help your students see their potential to be all of who they are.
● Share with students diverse books with many gender identities and expressions. Use lesson plans to help students understand and discuss gender.
Child Abuse Resource Posters
Committee for Children
Resources for Child Abuse Prevention
If you’re like many parents, you may know it’s important to talk with your child about sexual abuse but aren’t sure what to say or when to say it. This How-to guide makes it easy to approach these vital safety conversations so you can empower your child to report and refuse sexual abuse:
Connect and build trust in everyday moments
Teach your child simple, age-appropriate body safety rules
Create warmth and comfort when talking about a serious topic
Get information HERE
TxCAN Mental Health Trainings – In progress! Come back for more information!
We have been working closely with Region 20 to provide mental health trainings for college access professionals that will help inform practitioners how to provide a trauma sensitive approach to their college advising practice.
These trainings are scheduled to take place at the end of October, and I will send out registration information as soon as it becomes available.
Direct to College Dashboard – Now Live on our Website!
The TxCAN Direct to College Dashboard is now available on the Resources page of the TxCAN Website. Our DTC dashboard allows the user to see and compare the direct to college enrollment rates at the state, ESC, county, and school levels.
Financial Aid Requirement
Just want to share again some of the great resources that TEA, Texas OnCourse, and the THECB shared with us during their presentations on the Financial Aid Requirement.
Opt Out Form – in Spanish and English. Don’t forget that districts must use the TEA Opt Out form, they cannot use an internal form.
Financial Aid Requirement Website - a comprehensive information and resources hub for counselors, students, families, and district partners. They have some great toolkits for all audiences!
Apply Texas Counselor Suite Updates Video – the counselor suite has a new look! We want to make sure counselors are aware and know how to navigate these great changes! The counselor specific changes for the counselor suite are covered during the following timestamp: 37:46 - 45:00.
Future Focused TX, a coalition of members and partners who’ve come together to maintain college enrollment rates in Texas despite the effects of COVID-19. This statewide effort will provide free, compelling, research-based digital content to anyone who works with students, to help their students graduate and matriculate into college. The coalition partners want your support! You can help by joining our efforts and helping recruit partner organizations and individuals who can further spread the word. In doing so, think about the people in your network who are connected to counselors and advisors or anyone working with students on the path to college. Share this amazing resource with them.
Sign up for email updates here
If you’re looking for any additional support for COVID-19, explore the resources available from our partners at ASCA.
RESOURCE FOR SPRING BREAK "ANNIVERSARY" OF COVID-19
Spring Break is coming up soon and we know that this time of year might carry some feelings of unrest or uneasiness because it marks a year of the COVID-19 crisis. Anniversaries of crisis events can carry their own set of concerns and considerations as often we pause to take in what events have transpired since the first time we experienced the trauma. We have come across two partner resources online from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (or SAMHSA) that might be of use to you and your fellow colleagues and students if you feel that there has been a heightened state of awareness surrounding your Spring Break. The first is an Anniversary Workbook that accompanies a SAMHSA Disaster Anniversary presentation. Both are available online and are free through the SAMHSA Disaster Anniversary website.
Learn how anniversaries of disasters and other trigger events may renew symptoms of emotional distress in disaster survivors. Access website here.
Here is a resource workbook
Returning to school or work in this current phase of COVID is perhaps less isolating, but still a time of stress and anxiety. Below we highlight resources developed by our Network and other reputable national organizations for individuals returning back to work and school in person. Click on the link above for MHTTC Products and Resources.
Posted February 8th, 2021
Would you like a more in-depth training on McKinney-Vento enrollment, identification, and dispute resolution process? McKinney-Vento 201 will provide you the strategies to mitigate challenges or barriers to school enrollment, strategies to identify students experiencing homelessness and review the McKinney-Vento dispute resolution process.
Tools to Use: Poster 1; Spanish File; Poster 2; Spanish File 2; Information Page; Information Page 2;
BIGFUTURE: COLLEGE PLANNING SUPPORT
College Board Opportunity Scholarships
February Scholarship Drawings for the Class of 2022
Build Your College List—A $500 scholarship will be awarded to 500 students for building a college list of six or more colleges on BigFuture™.
Practice for the SAT—A $500 scholarship will be awarded to 500 students for completing a Diagnostic Quiz or Timed Mini Section on Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy®.
February Scholarship Drawings for the Class of 2021
February is the final month for the class of 2021 to participate in the College Board Opportunity Scholarships!
Complete the FAFSA—A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to 100 students for completing the FAFSA®. Students who are ineligible to complete the FAFSA can still earn a chance at the scholarship by going to their My Action Plan page.
Apply to Colleges—A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to 500 students for applying to two or more colleges.
Complete Your Journey—A $40,000 scholarship will be awarded to 25 students for completing all six key action steps for the College Board Opportunity Scholarships.
Earn Recognition for Your Hard Work by Retaking the Counselor Pledge
Retake the pledge to earn a digital recognition badge for signing up at least 20% of your school's junior class, and gain access to the new digital counselor pledge kit with new lesson plans and companion PowerPoints.
Expanding the National Recognition Programs to Include Juniors and Seniors
We're pleased to announce that we're expanding College Board's National Recognition Program in order to create more pathways to college for students from underrepresented communities. Moving forward, the National Recognition Program will include both seniors and juniors. This means that students' academic achievements in their sophomore and junior years can qualify them for the program. This year, we'll also consider PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and AP scores for the program's assessment criteria to ensure that recognition won't be limited by covid-19-related testing challenges. The revised eligibility criteria and full program timeline are now available on the National Recognition Program website.
CUSTOMER SERVICE QUICK TIPS
To save you time and a phone call, take a look at some common questions we've been hearing from counselors:
AP
Q. How can I order digital tests?
When APRO is updated in early March, all regularly scheduled exams ordered by your school will default to Administration 1, and all late-testing exams will default to Administration 2.
•
AP coordinators can switch students with existing exam orders to Administration 2 digital exams until 11:59 p.m. ET seven calendar days before the scheduled digital exam date.
•
AP coordinators can switch students with existing exam orders to Administration 3 digital exams until 11:59 p.m. ET seven calendar days before the scheduled digital exam date.
Q. Why can't I administer the World Language Exams digitally?
The World Language Exams require translation to and from written forms of the language, which a student with a smartphone can do by holding a translation app up to the computer screen. Accordingly, there's no way to administer exams at home that assess reading and writing of another language. Last year, colleges were willing to accept an abbreviated exam that only assessed speaking skills. But this year, if students can't take an AP Exam that measures reading and writing, and not just speaking, colleges prefer that students take their own college's placement exam when they arrive on campus.
Seniors registered for AP Spanish, AP French, and/or AP German Language and Culture Exams who are unable to test in person this spring will have the opportunity to take a related CLEP® exam for free later this year. We'll provide more information later this spring about how students can access CLEP vouchers and take a CLEP exam.
SAT Suite of Assessments
Q. I was unable to administer the PSAT/NMSQT in October and January. What options are available for my students?
Eligible students who are interested in entering the National Merit® Scholarship Program should contact National Merit Scholarship Corporation no later than April 1, 2021. See the National Merit Scholarship Program entry requirements (.pdf/152 KB) for more information.
Q. When will my final invoice arrive if I administered the PSAT/NMSQT in January?
Final invoices should arrive to schools by the end of March.
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Free online professional development
Become the go-to source for career and college planning. The Academy has over 30 learning modules on endorsements, graduation plans, career pathways, entrance exams, college applications, military academies, financial aid, and more. All these free modules are available remotely, and you can review them at your own pace. This helpful calendar helps you plan your learning throughout the year.
Link to register:
https://account.texasoncourse.org/interaction/0717e507-6abe-4bd9-bcc3-b91f92c9ff3c
Syllabus:
https://texasoncourse.org/educators/educator-development/texas-oncourse-academy/syllabus/
