Four-Year Plans
All students are provided the opportunity to complete a Four-Year Plan in the 9th grade. Each student and guardian is invited to meet with their counselor to discuss progress, goals and future plans. Students and families should consider each of the following areas as they prepare to create a Four-Year Plan. The Four-Year Plan is a tool that will assist students in the selection of courses for the coming years. Four-year plans often change over time, but every student should have a Four-Year Plan that is current for the student’s goals at the present time.
Goals and values
Goals are what you want out of life, and the career you choose will help you achieve them. Therefore, it is essential to select classes that will propel you forward in reaching your future goals.
Skills and abilities
The knowledge and use of specific skills are necessary for success in future endeavors. It is important to consider academic strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to select courses that will help improve and refine these skills.
Interests and hobbies
High school is a great time to cultivate hobbies that interest you. For example, if you have an interest in photography, you may want to take yearbook -- that way you can hone in on your skills.
School subjects you like
All school subjects are related to the world of work, college or career readiness. Therefore, subjects that will assist you in your future career need to be considered when designing a Four-Year Plan.
Post–secondary education and training plans
Some occupations require a high school diploma and others require a college degree. There is a wide variety in between. Be sure to choose an appropriate program of study. Remember, your high school preparation can assist you in doing well in college and future careers.
Advice from your teacher and school counselor
Your teacher can provide valuable information about course selection. Show them your most recent Four-Year Plan. They can recommend classes to take and explain how different subjects are related to career choice. Your counseling office is also a valuable resource. Your counselor can help identify your skills and interests and show you how they are related to course selection.
Advice from your parents or guardians
A Four-Year Plan should include parents/guardians. Their advice and involvement are vital to a student’s success.
Be aware of prerequisites
A prerequisite is a class you must take in order to take the next level class. You can be denied entrance into a class if you did not plan ahead and take what was required or did not achieve a passing grade in the class that was required to advance.
Make a list of alternative choices
It is unlikely that you will be able to take every course you want. The desired course may be filled or may cause a schedule conflict. That is why you need to be prepared with a second or third choice alternative.