FAFSA Completion & Financial Aid Workshops/Events:

SUNY On-line workshops for FAFSA Completion & Financial Aid Sessions: Join a SUNY financial Aid workshop.  Click the link for event dates/times and to register. SUNY has a variety of upcoming on-line Financial Aid workshops and FAFSA Completion workshops that we encourage you to attend for support in completing your FAFSA and Financial Aid applications. See all upcoming SUNY FAFSA Completion Workshops; See all SUNY upcoming Financial Aid Info Sessions

CUNY Workshops for FAFSA Completion & Financial Aid:  Click the link for event dates/times and to register. CUNY has a variety of upcoming on-line Financial Aid workshops and FAFSA Completion workshops that we encourage you to attend for support in completing your FAFSA and Financial Aid applications.

HESC Events: Click the link to browse by topic for event dates/times and to register. HESC offers a wide range of virtual events that can connect students and families with the information, resources, and financial aid experts they need to help them navigate the college application and financial aid process. Please also refer to this FAFSA/TAP Completion Events and HESC Events Calendar for more information on event descriptions, dates, and registration.

HESC Text Alerts: Students and their families can stay on track for college success by signing up for HESC Texts.  You will receive reminders about important deadlines,  financial aid updates, and tips—right to your phone.   

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE MHS SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

JUNE 2026

Dear Class of 2026 Seniors,  and Parents and Guardians:

BEST WISHES TO THE CLASS OF 2026!

Congratulations, Seniors!  We are very proud of all you have achieved. Each of you has your own unique story, talents, goals, and future path ahead. Whether you are heading to college, entering the workforce, serving in the military, attending trade school, pursuing a certification program, or exploring new opportunities, we are proud of you and excited for what lies ahead.  

Congratulations, Parents and Guardians! Thank you for your partnership, support, encouragement, and guidance throughout your child's high school journey. Your involvement has played an important role in helping our seniors reach this milestone. We appreciate the trust you have placed in our School Counseling Department and school community.

June is a time filled with excitement, reflection, celebration, and new beginnings. As we prepare for the end of the school year, it is also important to remain focused and finish strong. Final grades, attendance, graduation requirements, and end-of-year responsibilities remain important as you prepare to transition to your next chapter.

The MHS Counseling Department has created a comprehensive program to support you in your journey toward graduation, post-secondary planning, and college and career exploration.  Please take time to explore dedicated pages on this site to support your post-secondary planning, college and career exploration, and the college application process throughout your Senior Year.  Please refer to important information, dates, reminders and next steps to keep in mind listed in our “Announcements” Section below.  Additionally,  please don’t forget to check out upcoming events in our “Upcoming Events For All” section above. 

Seniors, you've got this! We would like to highlight some important information, reminders, and goals to keep in mind during the month ahead to help you stay on track with your post-secondary plans:

Special Graduation Notes & Reminders:

• Service Learning Graduation Requirement:  Engage in Service Learning activities towards meeting the MHS Service Learning Graduation Requirement (minimum 60 Hours).  Submit your Service Learning Hours  in our Digital Service Learning System in IC!

• MHS Senior Survey in Naviance:  Complete your MHS Senior Survey in Naviance! If you have not done so already,  please complete the MHS Senior Survey in Naviance as soon as possible! Please be sure to complete the “College that I’m Attending” section in the survey. *We cannot send your final transcripts to the college/university you are attending in the Fall if you do not complete the “College that I’m Attending” section in the Senior Survey. 

Admissions Decisions:  Please update Naviance with admissions decisions!

Finish Senior Year Strong:  Even after college decisions have been made, it is essential that seniors continue to demonstrate strong effort, responsibility, and commitment in all classes through the final day of school.  Colleges will review final transcripts, and admission offers are contingent upon successful completion of senior year.  Your hard work continues to matter. We encourage seniors to: 

• Attend classes regularly and maintain positive attendance

• Complete all assignments, projects, exams, and coursework

• Communicate with teachers and counselors if support is needed

• Stay informed about all senior deadlines and obligations

• Continue demonstrating responsibility and integrity

Confirm Your Post-Secondary Plans:  As you finalize your plans after graduation:

• Submit college enrollment deposits and housing forms by required deadlines

• Review financial aid awards and complete any remaining paperwork

• Register for orientation programs and placement testing, if applicable

• Check college portals and email accounts regularly for updates

• Request & have sent concurrent college course transcripts directly from the affiliated colleges by contacting the college’s registrar’s office to the college or program you will attend

• Students entering the workforce, military, gap year, apprenticeships, or trade programs should continue planning next steps and preparing for a successful transition. Stay in close contact with recruiters, employers and program contacts. Confirm start dates & ensure all required documentation is completed. 

If you are still uncertain about your plans after graduation, please reach out to your school counselor. We are here to support you and help you explore available options and opportunities.

End-of-Year Wrap Up:  Please be sure to check your school email and monitor school communications regularly throughout June regarding:

• Graduation rehearsal and ceremony information

• Senior events and celebrations

• Chromebook, textbook, library, and materials return

• Outstanding obligations or required forms

• Outstanding Graduation requirements

• Final MHS transcripts

Financial Aid & Scholarships:

• Submit your FAFSA, NYS TAP, (and CSS Profile, if required) 

• FAFSA or DREAM Act Application Waiver Form: If you have chosen NOT to complete the FAFSA or, if applicable, the DREAM Act application, please complete the application waiver form to the MHS School Counseling Department.

• Submit Applications for NYS Scholarships & Awards opportunities.

• Continue to regularly check Naviance & School Google Classroom and apply for Scholarship Postings. Deadlines may extend through June.

Final Transcripts:

• SENIOR- END OF YEAR- FINAL  MHS TRANSCRIPTS: At the end of the school year,  MHS will send your FINAL MHS TRANSCRIPT directly to your attending college through Naviance electronically. 

  • **We cannot send your final transcripts to the college/university you are attending in the Fall if you do not complete the “College that I’m Attending” section in the Senior Survey. 

• Concurrent Enrollment College Course Credits & Transcripts:  MHS does not keep or send Concurrent College Course Transcripts to your attending college. 

  • *Students must request their Concurrent College Course Transcripts directly from the affiliated colleges by contacting the colleges.

Support Matters! Check In with Us:  This is a major milestone. It is a time of excitement, change, and important decisions. Please remember you do not have to navigate this process alone. Your School Counselor is here to answer questions,  provide perspective,  and support you as you move forward.

A Final Word of Encouragement:  As you begin this next chapter, remember to believe in yourself, stay open to growth and new experiences, and continue to pursue your goals with confidence and determination. Please know that Mahopac High School will always be a home for you. Once a member of our school community, always a member of our school community. The High School Counseling Department wishes you a future filled with happiness, purpose, success, and meaningful opportunities. 

Please reach out to your School Counselor if you have any questions or need support. We are always here for you. Wishing you a strong finish to the school year and all the best in the journey ahead!

Congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2026! Enjoy a safe, relaxing, and memorable summer.

Warm regards, 

April J. Ljumić,  Administrator for School Counseling 

MHS School Counseling Department

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE MHS SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

JUNE 2026

Dear Class of 2027 Juniors,  Parents and Guardians:

As we enter the final month of junior year, the High School Counseling Department would like to recognize all of the hard work, growth, and accomplishments of our Class of 2027 students. Junior year is an important milestone in the post-secondary planning process, and the months ahead provide valuable opportunities to continue building toward your future goals. As a reminder, junior year is the last full year of courses and final grades that will appear on transcripts sent with your college applications during senior year.

We encourage all juniors and families to use the month of June and the summer months ahead intentionally to stay organized, informed, and proactive as students prepare for senior year and the college application process. We are here to support you every step of the way!

The MHS Counseling Department has created a comprehensive program to support you in your journey toward graduation, post-secondary planning, and college and career exploration. Please take time to explore the dedicated pages on this site to support your post-secondary planning, college and career exploration, and the college application process throughout your junior and senior years. Please refer to the important information, dates, reminders, and next steps listed in our “Announcements” section below. Additionally, please don't forget to check out upcoming events in our “Upcoming Events for All” section above. 

Juniors, you've got this! We would like to highlight some important information, reminders, and goals to keep in mind during the month ahead to help you stay on track with your post-secondary goals:

Staying Focused, Prepared, and Confident for Your Senior Year!

Request Teacher Letters of Recommendation for College:  Before the school year ends, students should begin requesting letters of recommendation from teachers for the college application process. Many colleges require at least one, and possibly two, teacher letters of recommendation as part of the application process. Being proactive now helps ensure strong and thoughtful letters for your applications in the fall. As discussed during your Junior Conference, students should consider:

• Teachers who know them well academically and through school-based interactions.

• Teachers from core academic subjects.

• Individuals who can speak to their strengths, work ethic, and character

*Before the end of the school year (prior to the last day of classes), please see your teacher in person to formally request a letter of recommendation. 

Complete Your “College Profile Survey” in Naviance (Required):
All juniors are required to complete the “College Profile Survey”  in Naviance. This survey provides your School Counselor with important information needed to write a personalized counselor letter of recommendation for your college applications. 

• Students should thoughtfully complete all sections of the survey.

• Parents/guardians also have a component to complete.

The College Profile Survey helps your counselor better understand your strengths, experiences, and goals so they can write a strong and personalized recommendation on your behalf.*Please complete your College Profile Survey in Naviance by the end of June.

Continue Your College Search in Naviance:  Continue using Naviance as a key tool in your college search process and to explore post-secondary options, including majors, careers, military opportunities, technical and trade schools, and other pathways. Naviance provides valuable resources that help students identify colleges that align with their interests, goals, and preferences. We encourage Juniors to: 

• Research colleges and academic programs that match their interests and academic profiles.

• Consider campus size, location, and environment.

• Review admission statistics, application requirements, and selectivity.

• Keep financial considerations in mind.

Continue Building & Refining your College List: Developing your college list is an ongoing process. Add schools to the "Colleges I'm Thinking About" list in Naviance. As you research: 

• Compare colleges and refine a balanced list.

• Include likely, target, and reach schools.

• Track colleges you are considering, interested in, or planning to apply to.

Plan College Visits & Campus Tours:  Summer is an excellent time to visit and explore college campuses. Experiencing campuses in person can help students gain a better sense of the academic environment, campus culture, and overall fit. We encourage you to:

• Register for campus tours, information sessions, and student-led tours when possible

• Participate in virtual tours or online information sessions if travel is not feasible

• Reflect on which environments feel like the best fit

• Document your impressions to support thoughtful decision-making

 Stay Focused on Academics: Finish Junior Year Strong! Junior-year grades represent the final full year of academic performance reviewed by colleges during the admissions process. Your GPA at the conclusion of junior year will include grades earned in grades 9–11.  Students should remain focused on:

• Maintaining strong grades

• Preparing carefully for final exams and assessments

• Completing assignments on time

• Demonstrating continued effort and academic growth

• Finishing the year positively and successfully

Update Your Activities List:   Continue tracking your extracurricular activities, volunteer work, employment, and leadership experiences. This information will be valuable for future applications, scholarships, and letters of recommendation during senior year.

Plan for Standardized Testing:  Continue considering your SAT and/or ACT testing plans. Register for early fall testing if appropriate, and be mindful of registration deadlines.

• Develop a study plan

• Review the testing policies and requirements of colleges on your list

Explore Summer Opportunities : Explore summer opportunities that support your interests, goals, and future plans. Whether through employment, internships, volunteer service, enrichment programs, camps, coursework, or other structured experiences, summer activities can help you build skills, gain real-world experience, and discover new interests.

Summer Goals Before Senior Year:  Summer can be a productive and meaningful time to prepare for the transition into senior year. Suggested goals include:

• Continuing college research and finalizing college lists

• Brainstorming and drafting college essays and personal statements

• Updating resumes and activities lists

• Participating in meaningful activities such as employment, volunteering, internships, camps, or enrichment opportunities

• Reviewing college application requirements and deadlines

• Preparing for SAT/ACT testing, if applicable

Even small steps taken over the summer can make the beginning of senior year feel more manageable and organized.

Service Learning Graduation Requirement:  Continue engaging in service-learning activities toward meeting the MHS Service Learning Graduation Requirement (minimum of 60 hours). Be sure to submit your hours through the Digital Service Learning System in Infinite Campus.

Junior Year Timeline &  Checklists: Review the information and resources on our website to stay on track. These pages are designed to guide you through every stage of your college and post-secondary planning journey.

A Final Word of Encouragement: 

The transition from junior year to senior year marks the beginning of many important decisions, opportunities, and milestones. We understand that this process can feel both exciting and overwhelming at times. While there may be moments when the journey feels complex or uncertain, remember that you do not have to navigate it alone. Your School Counselors are here to support, encourage, and guide you every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your counselor.

Take time this summer to reflect on your accomplishments, explore your interests, and continue learning about the opportunities that lie ahead. There is no single "right" path after high school, and each student's journey is unique. The most important thing is to stay engaged, ask questions, and take one step at a time.

We are proud of all that you have accomplished during junior year and are excited to help you prepare for a successful senior year and a bright future beyond high school.

We wish you and your family a restful, enjoyable, and productive summer. Continue to dream big and stay focused on your goals. We will continue communicating throughout the summer with additional information and reminders as you prepare for senior year.

We look forward to welcoming you back as seniors in September!

Warm regards, 

April J. Ljumić,  Administrator for School Counseling

MHS School Counseling Department

Start Exploring Summer Opportunities ☀️

Junior year is an ideal time for students to begin exploring summer opportunities that support their interests, goals, and future plans. Whether through employment, internships, volunteering, enrichment programs, camps, courses, or other structured experiences, summer activities can help students build skills, gain real-world experience, and discover new passions.

We encourage you to begin these conversations early, as many summer opportunities have application deadlines in late winter or early spring. Students may also want to connect with their School Counselor, teachers, or other mentors for ideas and guidance when identifying opportunities that are a good fit.

Meaningful summer experiences don’t have to look one specific way! What matters most is engagement, responsibility, and personal growth. Planning ahead can help you  make the most of their summer and continue building toward their postsecondary goals.