Updates & Resources

Posted 10/1/25: Colleges Participating in College Application Week (Waiving application fees) 2025

https://www.cfnc.org/apply-to-college/nc-countdown-to-college/colleges-participating-in-caw/ 

Posted 9/18/25: The Levine Scholars Program at UNCC

If you are interested in attending UNC Charlotte, please review the webpage linked below for their premier scholarship, The Levine Scholars program. 

https://levinescholars.charlotte.edu/

Please let Dr. Martin know by October 1 if you would like to be considered for a nomination. 

There have been at least two recipients from Cleveland County in the recent past. 

2025 Finalist Candidate Academic Averages 

The average for 2025 finalists are as follows:

GPA

• Weighted GPA: 4.53

• Unweighted GPA: 3.95

Posted 9/15/25: The Admissions Wire

quick-reference resource that may be helpful in your college application journey. Parents and/or students can subscribe for free. 

The Admissions Wire -- through College Transitions (a private college consulting company)

The College Transitions Admissions Wire is a weekly resource highlighting the events, deadlines, opportunities, and news stories that help you better navigate the college admissions process, whether you are a counselor, a parent, or a student.

Posted 8/26/25: Welcome to a new school year!

Please explore my website for lots of information about college, careers, and high school!

Posted 4/3/25: GWU Dawg Day -- You're Invited

Gardner Webb is hosting a Dawg Day this Friday, April 5. High School Students are invited to attend. They ask that students RSVP at the link below.

High School Students Invited to Visit on April 5 | Gardner-Webb University

Posted 3/20/25: 

Reminder that the Virtual NACAC Hosted Fair is coming up on Sunday, March 23rd.

This virtual fair is a great opportunity for you to connect with college representatives from across the country, all from the comfort and convenience of your computers.

All high school students, transfer students, high school or college counselors, and families are welcome to register for this complimentary event.

Date and Time:
Sunday, March 23rd, 2025
1:00 PM - 6:00 PM ET

View the list of exhibiting colleges and universities.

If you have any questions, please contact collegefairs@nacacnet.org. 

Posted 3/6/25: 

Hello Rising Seniors and parents, 

The process for registration for rising seniors taking college classes this year will be as follows: 

1) Students will meet with Mrs. Spicer and Dr. Martin at PCA to select their seated (meaning courses taught in-person on PCA campus) college courses and high school courses for next year. They will also discuss online course options as needed. Please sign up for a meeting or contact her at spicers858@clevelandcc.edu.

Book a Meeting with Mrs. Spicer

2) Students will bring home a registration form to be signed by parents. This should be turned in to Mrs. Fouts by Friday, March 28. 

If you are not taking college courses this year, Dr. Martin will meet with you to select your course preferences for next year.

If you have not taken college courses in 11th grade, but would like to take some in 12th grade, please let Dr. Martin know, as you will need to meet with Mrs. Spicer. A 2.8 unweighted GPA is required for college transfer courses. Some Career pathways do not require a minimum GPA. 

If you would like to meet individually or have further questions, please contact Dr. Martin via email or phone. 

You can preview 12th grade course options on my website:

Homepage>Academic Support>2025-26 Registration Information.

Have a great day!

Best, 

Dr. Martin

Posted 2/27/25: CCC Open House

Posted 2/27/25: FAFSA FEST

CCC is hosting a FAFSA Fest on March 11th from 4-7pm in the Student Enrollment Center. Please share with your seniors and parents.

Whether you’re planning to enroll, transfer, or continue your education, we can help you complete your FAFSA application!  

Submitting your FAFSA opens the door to:

• Grants (money you don’t have to pay back)

• Scholarships

Why apply?

Even if you think you won’t qualify, many colleges and scholarships require a FAFSA on file. You could be eligible for aid you didn’t expect!

Tuesday, March 11, 4-7 pm

Student Enrollment Center in the Jack Hunt Campus Center

Room 2101

Win YETIS merchandise plus a chance to win a gift card!

Questions? 704-669-4028 financialaid@clevelandcc.edu

Posted 1/29/25: 21 Questions to ask your student besides "How was your day?"

See the full article from ADDitude online magazine

Posted 1/29/25:  Get trained for a summer job as a lifeguard!

Posted 1/28/25: Local Government Job Fair

Posted 11/18/24: Creative Writing Scholarship Opportunity

Montreat College cordially invites you and your students to attend the 2025 Creative Writing Festival on April 25, 2025!

The Creative Writing Festival is a day-long event including creative writing workshops, panel discussions, scholarship competitions, and addresses from guest speakers. We welcome people of all ages who desire to learn and to grow in their creativity. With this year’s theme of “[Re][En]Vision,” we will have presentations and workshops by Christy Award Finalist and author Pepper Basham as well as poet Michael Dechane.

Additionally, we invite 11th-12th grade high school students to participate in the Creative Writing Competition. The Creative Writing Competition includes four awards in poetry and prose categories for 11th and 12th grade students, in which four students will win a $1,500 scholarship to Montreat College and a chance to be published in Montreat’s art magazine, The Lamp Post.

For a detailed itinerary, registration, and eligibility for the Creative Writing Competition, visit the Creative Writing Festival Website, or access our printable flyer.

For questions or more information, please reach out to Program Assistant Anna Bittner or the Director of the Creative Writing Festival, Dr. Zachary Rhone, at CWF@montreat.edu.

We hope you will join us for a day of lively discussion and creativity.                                                                                     

Sincerely,

Zachary Rhone, PhD

Associate Professor of English

Chair, Department of History, Languages, and Literature

Director, Writing Program (Writing Scholar Mentor Program and the Writing Center)
Montreat College
PO Box 1267 | Montreat, NC 28757

www.montreat.edu

Posted 10/21/24: US Senate Youth Program

United States Senate Youth Program Accepting Applications

Applications are open for the U.S. Senate Youth Program for high school juniors and seniors. Two student delegates and two alternates will be selected to represent North Carolina, meet high-ranking government officials and participate in education, leadership and public service activities during Washington Week, March 1-8, 2025. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship.

Learn more and apply for the United States Senate Youth Program.

Posted 9/3/24: 

NC State is hosting an Open House on October 19, 2024. More info here: 

Posted 8/14/24: Group travel event with WashU, Cornell, Rice, Emory, and Pomona Colleges

Representatives from the above colleges will be in Charlotte on Tuesday, August 27 at 6:30pm at the Discovery Place Science Center to meet with students and families. 

Here is the LAUNCH (Linking Access, Unity, Networking, Collaboration and Higher Education) event registration link.

Posted 8/12/24: SCHEDULE CHANGES

Students are allowed to request a schedule change during the first five days of the semester (through August 27th for fall semester).  NO schedule changes will be allowed after that time. Schedule Request Change Forms can be picked up in the High School Office from Mrs. Fouts. These must be signed by a parent/guardian.

Posted 2/26/24: Information Session for 10th and 11th Grade Parents and Students on Taking College Classes Next Year

CCC will host a virtual information session next Thursday evening, 3/7/24, at 6:00pm. The session will be conducted via Zoom; a link will be shared via email closer to the date. This session will provide an overview of the College and Career Promise program, which allows high school students to earn college credit in 11th and 12th grades. Details on: 

College Transfer Pathway: the pathway to earning an associate's degree through CCC.

Career and Technical Education Pathways: pathways to earning certificates and diplomas in career areas (i.e., welding, auto repair, electrical, cosmetology).

Please monitor your email for a zoom invitation. 

Posted 2/26/24: Summer jobs with City of Shelby

The City of Shelby will be posting Summer Seasonal Positions with the Shelby Parks and Recreation department in the coming weeks on CivicHR | Applicant Tracking System (civicplushrms.com).

Opportunities will include lifeguards, day camp counselors, maintenance workers, basket room workers, etc.

Please feel free to reach out to Gracie Freeman, Employment Coordinator with any questions.

gracie.plonk@cityofshelby.com

Posted 2/8/24: What do colleges want? 

College Essay Guy (Ethan Sawyer) tackles this topic in his new podcast (see below). Please check out his website for literally TONS of helpful info about the college application process: College Essay Guy

 What Colleges Want: A 9-Part Podcast Series on the Factors Colleges Deem Important 

In this 9-episode podcast series, you’ll learn: 

• Which factors in admission decisions are most important to colleges?

• What are the main things for students to keep in mind when planning high school courses?

• What exactly are "positive character attributes” and how do students show them in their application?

• How has the emphasis on essays changed and how can students stand out in 2024?

• Demonstrated Interest: What is it, which colleges care about it, and how do you show it?

• Crash courses on recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and more

Listen to the First Two Episodes Right Now Anywhere You Get Your Podcasts

501: What Colleges Want (Part 1): A Deep Dive into the Factors Colleges Deem Important & State of College Admission Report

Listen Here
My first guest is the person who originated the report, David Hawkins, Chief Education and Policy Officer at National Association of College Admission Counselors (aka NACAC). We discuss, among other things: 

• Major changes David has seen in the landscape over the past few years

• Changes in standardized testing and how the emphasis on college essays has changed

• How students, parents, and counselors can use the 2023 State of College Admission Report to make the college admission process easier

• Lots more

502: What Colleges Want (Part 2): A Deep Dive into GPA, Course Selection, and Making the Most of the Academic Opportunities Available to You

Listen Here

Tom Campbell (CEG's Community Manager, college counselor, and college admission officer) sits down with Nitzya Cuevas-Macias (Director of College Programs at Downtown College Prep) to cover: 

• How should students decide which classes to take?

• Key recommendations for selecting core academic classes & electives

• Frequently asked questions counselors and college admission officers get when asked about courses and grades

• Lots more

See All Podcast Episodes 

Someone forward this to you? Subscribe here to get free college admission resources in your inbox from College Essay Guy. Only the good stuff, not too often. (Unsubscribe anytime.)

Posted 1/30/24: Financial Aid February

Please check out CFNC for lots of helpful information about the FAFSA, financial aid, and paying for college. 

As part of Financial Aid Awareness month, NCSEAA and CFNC are pleased to continue the How to Pay for College webinar series. Students and their families are often confused about how to bridge the gap between family funds, financial aid and the total cost of paying for college. Funding a college education shouldn’t be a mystery.

https://www.cfnc.org/events/financial-aid-february/

Posted 10/11/23: Which colleges give out the most financial aid? 

See the chart below for data from many universities and their giving patterns for the class of 2026. This chart was accessed through The College Funding Coach: https://www.thecollegefundingcoach.org/ , where you can learn how to send your kids to college without going broke. 

Posted 3/29/23: Slide Show from Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Info Session

Click here to view the powerpoint presentation from the information session. 

Registration forms for rising 9th graders were given out at the meeting. Copies will also be given out in homeroom on 3/30/23 and posted on the school website. 

The high school course catalog can be viewed under the Academic Support tab on Dr. Martin's website. 

Posted 3/29/23: NCSU Summer PreCollege Programs

Apply Today for PreCollege Programs

With summer quickly approaching, we wanted to encourage you to apply to our Emerging Scholars Academy (ESA) and CAMINOS: Your Journey to College pre-college programs. These are for rising high school juniors or seniors. ESA is geared towards students who identify as Black or African-American, while CAMINOS is geared towards students who identify as Hispanic/Latinx. Students who have an interest in either culture are also encouraged to apply.

Our pre-college programs provide an opportunity for students to learn about higher education opportunities and cultural reinforcement. Students will find and build a strong sense of community while also preparing for the college application process and university experience.

CAMINOS will be held June 18 through June 22 while ESA will be held June 25 through July 1. These programs will be in person, and students will stay in residence halls on NC State's campus during their program. It only costs $20 for admitted students to attend.

You are eligible to apply if you have a cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.4 or higher or are in the top 15% of their class and are interested in pursuing college. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 7.

For more information and the student application, visit our Pre-College Programs website.

Posted 10/3/22: NC Schools Waiving Application Fees on CFNC.org During College Application Week (Oct. 17 – 21)

See which colleges are waiving fees this year during October 17-21: https://www.cfnc.org/media/v5znwqly/c2c-nc-college-application-fees.pdf 

Posted 9/26/22: Paying for College-Slides from the presentation

On September 22, a representative from College Foundation of NC joined seniors for a presentation on paying for college. View her slide show here: 

Posted 9/1/22: Countdown to College - October is College Application Month!

Check out these resources from CFNC for Countdown to College:

NC Countdown to College 2022 Events

Join CFNC for a month of live virtual events and How-To videos to support high school seniors in completing three important college enrollment steps: Residency, FAFSA, and applications.

Posted 8/22/22: Cybersecurity Discovery Day at Montreat College on teacher workday 9/23

Montreat College is hosting a Cybersecurity Discovery Day on Friday, September 23rd (a teacher workday at PCA). During this event, students will have the opportunity to visit campus, learn about their cyber program, scholarships, and take a guided campus tour. They will also have the added bonus of attending breakout sessions of their professional RETR3AT Cybersecurity Conference! Here is some more information. They would love to see either a group or individual students from Pinnacle Classical Academy on that day!

Posted 8/16/22: "The Admissions Game" on YouTube

Curious how your college application and credentials are reviewed? This conversation provides insight into who “gets in” and why.

Find some comfort (and plenty of takeaways) in this recently recorded workshop, presented by Peter Van Buskirk. (Mr. Rowe is a fan.) This link provided courtesy of Scoir: "The Admissions Game" 

Posted 5/26/22: College Application Resources

It's definitely not too early to start planning for your college applications! A great way to start is by creating a Common Application account. Check out this great resource for many "how-to's" and tips: https://www.commonapp.org/counselors-and-recommenders/common-app-ready 

Also: view Dr. Martin's College Admissions Process slideshow here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/13QNfDU_ka87x61WTRzjrz0zOAgQtvyBtPDJvfbAT8Lg/edit?usp=sharing 

Posted 5/3/22: Gardner-Webb University is looking for students interested in attending the Summer Math Academy.

June 20-24, 2022

Cost: $25

See Dr. Martin to pick up an application!

Posted 5/2/22: Now is the time to explore summer opportunities!

The CFNC Student Enrichment Programs directory has been updated with programs for summer 2022. The directory provides information on summer programs, workshops, and other activities at colleges around the state. Students can search by interest area, location, residential or day, by fee range, and more. Explore these great enrichment opportunities!

Additional opportunities can be found on this website under the Summer Opportunities tab. 

Posted 5/2/22: Extension of Test-optional application process for UNC System schools through fall of 2024

See details here: https://www.northcarolina.edu/standard-test-requirement-waiver/ 

Posted 3/10/22: Registration for 2022-23 courses starting soon! 

2022-23 College Courses Information for 12th Grade

2022-23 College Courses Information for 11th Grade

Posted 10/14/21: Senior College Application Day - Tuesday, October 19

Hello seniors!

We are so excited about College Application Day just for YOU next Tuesday, October 19.  

Important Info:

• Check in with homeroom, and then report to the Downstairs Media Center

• Bring your Chromebook, charger, and any materials you might need for FAFSA or RDS

• Lunch will be provided

• It's a college t-shirt day for seniors only!

Schedule Highlights for the Day:

8:00-3:00 Work on College Applications, FAFSA, RDS, Scholarships, etc.

9:00-12:00 Admissions and FAFSA Experts onsite (schedule a FAFSA app't here-parents welcome)

11:00 Lunch

12:00-2:00 Mock Interviews

Posted 10/4/21: NC Countdown to College 2021 Events

Join the College Foundation of NC for a month of live virtual events and How-To videos to support high school seniors in completing three important college enrollment steps: Residency, FAFSA, and applications.

Also find helpful information for juniors beginning the college search process!

https://www.cfnc.org/apply-to-college/nc-countdown-to-college/2021-events-schedule/ 

Posted 9/30/21: Paying For College Information Session 

Last night's Paying For College Info Session was full of great ideas and information about how to pay for college, how to qualify for in-state tuition, and how the financial aid process works. This information is essential for seniors and senior parents. You can view the recording at the link below. 

Paying For College Session (50 minutes)

Also, additional information is available at the College Foundation of NC (CFNC) website: https://www.cfnc.org/ 

Posted 9/27/21:

CACRAO+StriveScan

Virtual College Fairs

For High School Students:

Monday, October 11th and Tuesday, October 12th

5pm-7:45pm

During the Virtual College Fair, students and families will have the chance to hear from many different colleges. You can choose which colleges you want to hear from by registering for their sessions. You can ask questions of the college representatives throughout the presentations too!

Check out the schedule, list of colleges, and register now!

Posted 9/21/21: 

College Essay Guy Virtual College Fair

Wednesday, October 6th

3pm - 6:45pm PDT (6pm - 9:45pm Eastern)

• Connect with over 65 colleges and universities from around the world

• Join me in the opening session as I share How to Develop a Preliminary College List in Under an Hour

• 6x6 format: 6 schools present for 6 minutes each (super efficient way of getting to know many colleges/universities)

Check out the schedule and list of colleges, and register now!

Show up at 3pm PT to catch the opening session How to Develop a Preliminary College List in Under an Hour. It’ll be an interactive session in which you can actually develop an initial college list—or refine the list you’ve already started—in less than 60 minutes.

For real.

Register Here

Posted 9/20/21: CFNC List of NC Colleges Waiving Application Fees for College Week

Posted 9/9/21: Important Scholarship Dates

Please note the following deadlines for the flagship scholarships (usually full tuition, room & board) at these NC colleges/universities:

All except the EC Scholars Program at East Carolina require a school/counselor nomination. 

Posted 8/24/21:  US Senate Youth Program

Apply for the United States Senate Youth Program

Application materials are now available for the upcoming United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP).

The USSYP provides an educational opportunity for juniors and seniors interested in pursuing college coursework in history or political science to spend a week in Washington D.C. meeting Senators, cabinet members, Supreme Court justices, and officials from various federal agencies and the White House.   

• Two student winners will be selected to represent North Carolina. 

• These two winners will each attend the Washington Week program, March 5-12, 2022, and receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship.

North Carolina application materials can be found on the North Carolina Senate Youth website August 1, 2021 – October 3, 2021.  http://senateyouthnc.webs.com/

Posted 8/18/21: Recording from the Open House at CCC for students taking college classes

Access the recording from the Open House meeting at this link: https://use.vg/qroZWj 

Posted 8/10/21:  Cleveland Community College Open House Information

• CCC is offering an Open House and Information Session for 11th and 12th grade PCA students who will be taking CCP (college) courses this year. 

• Geared to students new to CCP (11th graders and 12th graders taking college courses for the first time), but all CCP students are invited.

• Great opportunity to learn about how to access Blackboard (similar to Google Classroom) and many other essential items needed for college courses.

• August 17 at 2:00 in Rose Library at CCC (see flyer below)

Posted 6/2/21: NC State and the UNC System announce the continuation of test-optional applications for the 2021-22 year

UNC:

https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/NCSBE/2021/06/02/file_attachments/1842484/Testing%20Waiver%20for%20Fall%202022.pdf 

NC State:

https://admissions.ncsu.edu/apply/freshmen/test-score-consideration-in-admission-decisions/ 

Posted 5/27/21: Amazing New Grant Opportunity for 2021 Grads

North Carolina Longleaf Commitment Grant

ELIGIBLE 2021 NC HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES WILL HAVE THEIR TUITION AND FEES COVERED AT ANY ONE OF OUR “GREAT 58” COMMUNITY COLLEGES FOR UP TO TWO YEARS.

The Longleaf Commitment is a grant program for 2021 North Carolina high school graduates who will attend one of our state’s “Great 58” community colleges starting in the Fall 2021 semester. High school students may be eligible to receive this grant – not a loan – for tuition and fees toward a degree or to attain transfer credit. Full-time eligible students are guaranteed to receive $700 to $2,800 per year, for a total of two years. Less than full-time students may receive a partial award. The Longleaf Commitment Grant Program ends at the conclusion of the 2023 spring semester.

Eligibility Requirements

• Graduate from a North Carolina high school in 2021

• Be a North Carolina resident for tuition purposes

• Be a first-time college student (Career & College Promise (CCP) and Early/Middle College High School students are eligible)

• Enroll in a curriculum program  during the 2021-22 academic year

• Enroll in at least 6 credit hours per semester

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for 2021-22

• Have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from $0 - $15,000.  (“EFC” is based upon student’s FAFSA determination)

• Renew FAFSA for the 2022-23 academic year and meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements of the college

• NC Community College System Longleaf Commitment Grant Information Page

• College Foundation of North Carolina Longleaf Commitment Grant Information Page

Posted 5/13/21: New PCA Scholarships

Champion Investments Scholarship

Champion Investments is offering a $1,000 scholarship application to a diploma, 2 or 4-year education institute pursuing a field that supports or involves entrepreneurship. This offer is available to any high school student graduating from PCA in 2021 seeking a career specific to entrepreneurship.  Complete the information at the following link to apply: https://forms.gle/hG9XAt6dzK1d8rRq7  Deadline: May 14, 2021

Shelby Alarm Scholarship

A $1000 scholarship will be awarded by Shelby Alarm Company, Inc. to a Pinnacle Classical Academy senior who displays the characteristics of a good work ethic.  This will be the student who always works hard, willing to help where help is needed, and does the best to his or her ability.  This student understands the importance of work ethic, personal responsibility and positive attitude.  The scholarship will be applicable to any 2 year or 4 year college or university. Deadline is May 18, 2021

Shelby Alarm Work Ethic Scholarship Application

Senator Debbie Clary Scholarship

The founding chair of Pinnacle Classical Academy is honored to offer one Pinnacle graduate a $1,000.00 scholarship, beginning with the first graduating class of 2020. This scholarship is open to a Pinnacle Classical Academy high school senior who plans to attend a four-year college or university upon graduation.

In order to be eligible for this scholarship, students must complete an application and submit a 600-1200 word essay answering the question of what does freedom of speech mean to you.

Applicants must submit their application to Mrs. Angela Brooks. The application should be emailed to abrooks@pinnacleclassicalacademy.com by Tuesday, May 18th. Access the application here: Senator Clary Scholarship Application 

Troy Sewell True Grit Scholarship

The Troy Sewell True Grit Scholarship award is a one time $1,000.00 scholarship open to a high school senior from Pinnacle Classical Academy located in Shelby, NC.  Students who apply must be planning to attend either a two or four year university.   Applicants must submit this application as well as a vision board or PowerPoint presentation describing their future goals.   This application form and visual representation of what your vision is for the future must be submitted to Dr. Martin by Thursday, May 20 at 10:00 am.  A scholarship committee will make the final decision on the recipient. Access the application here

Dearmin Family/Farm Bureau Scholarship

The Dearmin Family Scholarship award is a one time $1,000.00 scholarship open to a high school senior from Pinnacle Classical Academy located in Shelby, NC.  Students who apply must be active in their community through volunteering, sports, clubs and/or religious organizations; and plan to enroll full-time in 2021-22 in a two year school, trade school, or any continuing education program.  Applicants must submit their application, unofficial transcript, and one letter of recommendation to Dr. Martin by Thursday, May 20th by 10:00 am.  An interview will be arranged for finalists. Access the application here 

Clary Construction Concepts Scholarship

Information coming soon!

Farm Bureau Ray Family Scholarship

This is a one time $1,000.00 Scholarship awarded to one high school senior from Pinnacle Classical Academy, located in Shelby NC.  This Scholarship will be reserved for a student enrolling full time into a 2-year, 4- year, or trade school for the year 2021-2022.   The selection will be based on extracurricular activities, scholastics, and an essay of 500 words or less. Applications, unofficial transcripts, and a letter of recommendation to Dr. Martin must be submitted no later than Thursday May 20th 10:00 AM. Access the application here 

The Caldwell Family Scholarship

The Caldwell Family Scholarship award is a one time $1,000 scholarship open to a high school senior from Pinnacle Classical Academy located in Shelby, NC. Students who apply must be active in their community through volunteering, sports, clubs and/or religious organizations; and plan to enroll full-time in 2021-22 four year school, two year school, trade school, or any continuing education program. Applicants must submit their application, unofficial transcript, and one letter of recommendation to Dr. Martin by Thursday, May 20th by 10:00am. An interview will be arranged for finalists. Access the application here 

Posted 5/11/21: Local Summer Volunteer Opportunity - Gain Hours and Experience!

The Cleveland County Register of Deeds is seeking a student volunteer to assist in the office 2 days a week this summer. These hours can be logged as community service for NHS and/or college and scholarship applications. It is also a good opportunity to learn more about county government operations. Please contact Betsy Harnage at 704-477-0936. 

Posted 4/28/21: Essay Contest on Citizenship

Fourth Circuit Sponsors 2021 High School Essay Contest

In his inaugural address 60 years ago, President John F. Kennedy uttered a profound and enduring challenge regarding citizenship: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” As Kennedy recognized, citizenship carries with it both rights and responsibilities.

What are the responsibilities of citizenship, and how do those responsibilities support and reinforce the rule of law?

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit is seeking submissions for its 2021 essay contest.

Students are invited to consider and share their thoughts on the question: "What are the responsibilities of citizenship, and how do those responsibilities support and reinforce the rule of law?"

The contest is open to all students currently in grades 9 through 12 from Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Essays are limited to 1,000 words and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 2021.

Students have the opportunity to win one of three cash prizes: first place, $2,000; second place, $1,500; and third place, $1,000.

Winners will be announced in the summer, and travel will be provided to the court’s Essay Awards Program in September 2021.

For additional information and instructions on how to submit an essay, visit www.ca4.uscourts.gov/essay-contest.

For questions, contact the Fourth Circuit Clerk’s Office at essaycontest@ca4.uscourts.gov or (804) 916-2706.

Please note: Prior award winners as well as children, grandchildren, stepchildren, and members of the household of a federal judge or federal judiciary employee are excluded from the competition.

Please contact Dr. Martin with any questions!

Posted 4/22/21: College Application & Essay Workshop for Rising Seniors

See flyer below. Dr. David Parker will be joining us again for this great opportunity to get a jump start on your college application process! The first 10 students to sign up will attend for FREE. Rising seniors only! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E45ACAE2AA5F85-college1 

Posted 4/12/21:  Financial Aid Bootcamp April 20-21, 2021

Federal Student Aid (FSA) will be hosting a two-day virtual financial aid boot camp on April 20 and 21. This boot camp will feature day and evening sessions with subject matter experts providing information designed to help participants learn about

• innovative tools like Loan Simulator and College Scorecard,

• interpreting financial aid award letters

• navigating the federal financial aid process

• steps to take upon completion of your 2021–22 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form, and

• FSA tools and resources.

This boot camp is ideal for students, parents, guidance counselors, college access professionals, college and career coaches, and members of the financial aid community.

Register here!

Register for the Boot Camp

Posted 4/12/21: Planning on Attending a UNC System School? Student Panel opportunity this week!

Ask a Student Virtual Panel Hosted by the UNC System

The UNC System will be hosting four live Ask a Student Virtual Panels the week of April 12, 2021. These events will allow prospective students the opportunity to learn more about campus life at the 16 UNC System universities by asking their questions directly to current students. Interested students can register via this webpage: https://www.northcarolina.edu/ask-a-student.

Virtual sessions will highlight campus life and activities, academic opportunities, residence life, and more. Registrants will have the opportunity to submit questions to the panel when they register for each session or they can ask questions live during the event. After each hour-long session, there will be an opportunity for students to join a 30-minute Zoom session with each individual institution where they can ask an Admissions Counselor specific questions about the admissions process. Please access the link above to register.

Posted: 3/25/21:  Zoom Recording from Virtual Visit on College Classes

Topic: PCA Parent Student Information Session: Taking College Classes in High School

Date: Mar 23, 2021 05:39 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

https://clevelandcc.zoom.us/rec/share/Tc0wzW3G5qY-r_423K56aasYw2s7rZtkzH6WfSfj3HbaE5QWnus2_VCHGvN5TyVW.KqOFZMoT_G7mvf_9

Posted 3/17/21: Virtual College Fairs

Virtual College Fairs

Registration is Open!

High School Students

Thursday, March 25th and Monday, April 19th

5pm-8pm

Transfer Students

Thursday, April 22nd

5pm-8pm

Registration is now open for our Virtual College Fair! Sign-up to virtually connect with 200+ colleges and universities from around the country and world for free. 

During the Virtual College Fair, you will have the chance to hear from many different colleges. You can choose which colleges you want to hear from by registering for their sessions. You and your family can ask questions of the college representatives throughout the presentations too!

All sessions will be recorded, so please register for ALL college/universities that you have an interest in, even if you can't make the live session...you'll have an opportunity to watch the recordings later!

Check out the schedule, list of colleges, and register now!

Posted 3/9/21: STEM Interests???

Check out these resources from Inspirit AI, a group of Stanford and MIT mentors:

• Our Basics of AI for High School Students guide covers the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and points students to additional materials to help them take the next step in exploring key technical and ethical questions. 

• Our Building AI Projects for High School Students guide provides a step-by-step framework for high school students to design and implement a project that applies AI to a domain they care about. Educators may also use this guide to integrate AI projects into their classes! 

• Students can watch a recording of our recent webinar, Preparing High School Students for an AI-Powered Future, where a group of our instructors from MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, and Amazon discussed how high school students can combine their passions with AI and lead innovative and impactful careers in the fields of their choice. 

As a reminder, applications for our spring and summer programs close on March 31st. Students in grades 9-12 can apply here, and more information is available in this brochure.

Posted 3/1/21:  A Guide for High School Students: Evaluating College Summer Programs

Now is an excellent time to give some thought to how you want to spend your high school summer. Here's a helpful article on making decisions among the many opportunities out there. 

Posted 2/3/21: Local Scholarship Opportunity

Eta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity-- Scholarships to two (2) deserving Gaston, Cleveland, or Lincoln County high school graduating seniors interested in or intending to pursue a post-high school course of study at either college/university or other post- secondary educational institution.

The applicant must demonstrate positive-impact involvement – in the complete sense – consistent with capacity and circumstances and/or significant improvement/success in scholarship and community involvement, determined through letters of recommendation.

The completed application must be RECEIVED by April 30th by 5 PM.  If you need help mailing or emailing the application please submit to Dr. Martin no later than April 21, 2021.  Click HERE to download the application.

Posted 2/2/21: ACT and SAT Test Prep Resources

11th graders will take the ACT on Feb. 23 and the SAT March 3. If you would like to incorporate some test practice questions into your classes between now and then, here are some handy resources:

For ACT: Go here: https://www.kaptest.com/act/free/act-free-practice-test and you can sign up for the ACT Question of the Day. Also there are more resources including practice tests/questions here: Free ACT Prep. 

For SAT: Go to: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice/khan-academy.  SAT Question of the Day here: http://www.kaplanquizzes.com/new-sat/

Students, you would be surprised how much of a difference even 1 hour/week of practice questions can make on your score. 

Posted 11/23/20: College Day Virtual Visit links

You can access recordings of the college visits with Pinnacle today at the links below:

Appalachian State University, Queens University, and Wingate University

Furman University

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Gardner-Webb University

Meredith College and Clemson University

Meredith Events: Open House...etc:   https://www.meredith.edu/admissions/college-fairs-open-houses

Visit Meredith:     https://www.meredith.edu/admissions/visit

Quadeshia- Admissions Counselor:    https://www.meredith.edu/directory/quadeshia-batts

Lenoir-Rhyne University  Code to apply for free to Lenoir-Rhyne: HJApply21

NC State University and East Carolina University

Posted 10/27/20: Virtual College Exploration

Follow the link below to access video sessions created by many NC and SC colleges:

https://cacrao.org/programs/2020-high-school-student-registration 

• Hear from admissions officers: Experienced admission counselors will tell you what you need to know

• Gain important college knowledge: Choose from 280 different presentations and information sessions

• 201 Colleges and Universities: Learn more about different colleges from 26 states, Washington DC and 4 countries

Posted 10/14/20: Summer Ventures application opens 10/15!

Rising juniors and seniors:

The application for Summer Ventures through the NC School of Science and Math opens tomorrow, October 15! Please see the link below for FAQ's and other information about this wonderful summer program. Applications are due by January 15, 2021.

https://www.ncssm.edu/summerventures/faqs

Posted 10/5/20: US Senate Youth Program

https://senateyouthnc.webs.com/

This is a week-long program in March (this year, virtual). Selected delegates (2 per state) will receive a $10,000 scholarship and encouragement to pursue coursework in history and political science.

Selection criteria include: grade 11 or 12 and

1. Be currently serving in an elected or appointed leadership position in any one of the  following during the entire academic school year:

       * Student body president, vice president, secretary, or treasurer

       * Class president, vice-president, secretary, or treasurer

       * Student council representative

       * Student representative elected or appointed (appointed by a panel, commission or board) to a local, district, regional or state-level civic, service and/or educational organization  approved by the state selection administration

       * National Honor Society officer (this may include a discipline-based Honor Society that incorporates service components, e.g., the National English Honor Society, Social Studies Honor Society, etc.)

Students may qualify to apply through leadership positions they currently hold per the USSYP official criteria for the current 2020-2021 academic year. If students are unable to hold leadership positions this year due to the pandemic, they can submit the position they held during the 2019-2020 academic year.

Contact Dr. Martin with any questions!

Posted 9/29/20: Teaching Scholarship to Catawba College

The West Teaching Scholarship and the Commit to Teacher Education Scholarship are available through the Catawba College Academy for Teaching! Applications for the scholarships are available through the link below. If you need further information, please contact our Teacher Education Department (mcartner19@catawba.edu) to set up an appointment.  Our campus is open for visitors, so we would be happy to meet in person, online, or via phone.   The deadline to apply for these scholarship opportunities is January 15, 2021. 

The West Teaching Scholars application is located at the following link: 

http://www.catawba.edu/requests/app_teachscholar.asp

Please note, our website is currently being updated to reflect the most recent information and requirements listed below:

Catawba’s West Scholars:

West Scholars receive $5000 per year in addition to any academic scholarship awarded by Catawba with the exception of Socratic Scholarships.

• Training in the integration of technology to enhance student learning

• Field experiences throughout their education program

• Participation in community, service, and scholarly research activities

• Optional international study opportunities

• A strong history of employment following graduation

• A supportive learning community of peers, business and community leaders, faculty and staff

• A mentoring program

• Cohort activities (retreats, dinners, etc.)

• A fall semester activity for all cohorts

Qualifying for Catawba’s West Scholarship:

All students who are interested in the West Scholars program must:

• Be entering Catawba College as first-time freshmen

• Complete a West Scholars application

• Complete a Catawba College application for admission (and be accepted to Catawba)

• Have a qualifying GPA of 3.5 or higher

• Maintain minimum Catawba GPA of 3.0

• SAT/ACT scores optional (Note: Full West Scholars may submit SAT scores in order to seek exemption from the required Praxis CORE exam for entry to Teacher Education. An SAT score of 1170 is required for exemption from taking the Praxis CORE exam prior to admission to the Teacher Education during the sophomore year.)

Conditional West Scholars:

Conditional West Scholars receive $2500 per year in addition to any academic scholarship awarded by Catawba (with the exception of Socratic Scholarships ) and must:

• Have a qualifying GPA of 3.2

• Maintain minimum Catawba GPA of 3.0

• SAT/ACT scores optional

• Submit passing scores for the Praxis Core exams by April 15 of your freshman year. 

Commit to Teacher Education Scholarship:

For students who do not qualify for the West Teaching Scholarship or the Conditional West Scholarship, the Teacher Education Department offers the "Commit to Teacher Education Scholarship." Recipients of this scholarship will receive $1000 per year, with an increase to $2000 per year once successfully accepted in the Teacher Education program. To receive this scholarship, interested students must:

• Complete a Catawba College application for admission (and be accepted to Catawba).

• Complete the online application for the scholarship, noting your intent to major or minor in Education.

• To continue to receive the scholarship, recipients must declare a major or minor in Education by the end of their first semester, qualify for admittance to Teacher Education for the junior year, and complete the coursework required for the major or minor selected in education. 

Posted 9/3/20: Davidson Admission Workshops

Join the Davidson College Admission Staff and other admission professionals this fall for a workshops series to help prepare you for the college search and application process.  Sessions will cover topics ranging from essay writing to interview preparation to making the most of virtual college visits.  All workshops are free but space is limited in some sessions.  View the full schedule and register here.  Questions?  Email: intensives@davidson.edu

Posted 8/31/20: Virtual College Fairs this fall

Students and parents can sign up at virtualcollegefairs.org. General information about the fall season of NACAC Virtual College Fairs is at nacacfairs.org/virtual-students.

Posted 8/27/20: Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

Are you a middle or high school student who's making a difference through volunteering? 

See the attached flyer for information on how to apply for a $1,000 award in recognition of your service!

Posted 8/19/20:  The Robertson Scholars Program

Please see info below on information sessions about The Robertson Scholarship. The Robertson is a full ride scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill or Duke University. You can also learn more at the website: https://robertsonscholars.org/

August 19, 2020

New in 2020 – Robertson Scholars Leadership Program Webinar Information Sessions. Students and counselors are invited to participate in Webinar where they will hear directly from our Director of Selection, as well as alumni and current scholars. This is an opportunity to learn about the Robertson’s program offerings and our application process. There will also be a live Q&A section for students and counselors to pose questions.

Registration is required. Please register at the link below:

https://calendly.com/rslp/robertson-scholars-high-school-student-info-session

Posted 8/13/20: Important Information for CCP Students from PCA Open House

CCP Handout 

Posted 8/12/20: Resources from CCC Open House for CCP Students

• Power Point from the Open House (see "Back to School" above)

• Info on CCC Library, the Career and College Promise Program, Tutoring through CCC, and Portal Login info

• How to Login to Email: https://use.vg/7mFFGS  https://app.vidgrid.com/view/iZQV72TImRpt 

• Office 365 for Students: https://app.vidgrid.com/view/yCWTf7vP3UpA

• How to Access Blackboard: https://app.vidgrid.com/view/HPOs3PZK5z8m

Posted 5/19/20: NC School of Math and Science Summer Programs Move Online

The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM)’s Summer Accelerator program is proud to announce the launch of our online courses for summer 2020!*

Posted 5/4/20:   Colleges Waiving ACT/SAT Requirements

Available from FairTest.Org: 

• Updated list of colleges and universities that are waiving ACT/SAT Requirements for 2020 admission: www.fairtest.org/colleges-and-universities-temporarily-waiving-acts

• List of test-optional colleges and universities: www.fairtest.org/university/optional

Posted 5/3/20:   Virtual College Fair and Admissions Conference

NAVIGATE 2020 Virtual Conference and College Fair.  May 4-6

This event will host three days of live-stream expert presentations for students and families and a concurrent virtual college fair with fully interactive booths.  Students can chat live with college admissions representatives, helping to find fit.  

Students and families have lost opportunities in their college search due to COVID-19.

This event is free-of-charge to attendees and is designed to help students and colleges connect safely during the COVID-19 crisis.  The event will be live for three days, packed with informative sessions about the college decision process.  During those three days, students can also browse interactive college fair booths, chatting live with admissions representatives. 

After three days of live interactions, this event will remain posted at the event site until the COVID-19 crisis is over.  Students need access to information and this site will remain a robust tool for exploring their options.  

We hope you can join us in this important event!  Register soon, space is limited.

Learn More or Register Now

Posted 4/27/20:   Virtual College Visits

Feeling discouraged that you can't visit colleges like you may have been planning? Colleges and universities have been working hard to organize virtual visits and information sessions so that prospective students can learn more without visiting in person. 

Here is some information I just received from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC:  https://admissions.appstate.edu/visit

• They are offering virtual tours daily with Admissions Counselors and Student Ambassadors as well as a Zoom drop in lobby from 8-5 everyday.

• You can schedule a face to face one-on-one with our App State admissions counselor, Liz Alliss, as well: allissea@appstate.edu

• There is actually a Campus Visit Tuesday at 2 and Friday at 2 that Liz will be presenting if anyone wants to attend. The link is on the page linked above under Virtual Campus Visit.

This is just an example of one university. Information on visiting campuses YOU are interested in is just a few clicks away! So on your next break from those online classes, take a few minutes to remember what awaits you after all that work---COLLEGE! Go virtual and go visit!

Posted 4/23/20: COVID and ACT/SAT

Students have begun receiving their score reports from the ACT test they took at school back in February. I would love to talk with you if you have questions about your scores or would just like to talk them over related to your college plans. Please shoot me an email with your score so I can enter it into SCOIR.

Coronavirus Updates

Taking/retaking the college entrance exams (both ACT and SAT) is really up in the air right now with the coronavirus crisis. Right now, ACT has summer tests scheduled for June 13 and July 18. You can view summer dates and how to register here: ACT home page. However, the June SAT was just cancelled, so I think it is a strong possibility that one or more of the summer ACT tests could be cancelled as well. August and September test dates (for either test) are also worth considering as your scores would be available in time for early decision/early action college applications. The ACT will also be offering section retesting beginning with the September test. This is NEW and will allow you to retake only the sections you'd like to improve instead of the entire test. 

There have also been reports that both ACT and SAT may offer at-home testing, either late summer or early fall. They are working on this now. Another thing that is happening is that many colleges have moved/are considering moving to test optional for applications in the 2020-21 year due to the pandemic crisis. Both of these changes could affect your decision on when/if to retake the test.

Where would I retake ACT or take SAT?

You would retake the ACT at an ACT Testing Center (usually local high schools or community colleges). PCA is not a testing center, but Crest is. When you register online for the test, you will see the location options you can choose from. Starting in July, you will be able to see which sites offer online ACT testing--the benefit to this is that you can get your results almost immediately (2 days) instead of 6-8 weeks. (!) We don't have information at this time on if/when a rescheduled SAT at PCA may be offered for you. If you want to go ahead and register for a fall SAT test, you can find dates and do that here: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/dates-deadlines  There is a lot of helpful information on SAT Coronavirus updates here: https://pages.collegeboard.org/sat-covid-19-updates

New ACT Options

Starting with the September ACT test, there will be new options to choose from. Section retesting, as I mentioned, but also superscoring, where ACT will report your highest score in each section (from multiple test dates) rather than just your highest composite (overall) score. You can find out more and watch a video here: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/act-september-2020.html

Costs?

The ACT costs $52-68. The SAT costs $50-65. If your family income meets certain criteria, you may qualify for a fee waiver for both tests, which covers the cost. Please contact me for more information. 

Posted 3/19/20: Here's a list of helpful activities to do at home with students of all ages: Home Activities

Posted 3/18/20:

• Free resource for coping during this challenging time: The ebook Mindfulness & Other Natural Treatments for ADHD is now free of charge. We hope you will download it and put to use its strategies for practicing deep breathing, yoga, and mindful meditation during this stressful time. This resource is great for all students.

• Check out this COVID-19 library of articles about parenting, working, and managing anxiety during the time of coronavirus.

• Video Message from Dr. Martin posted March 16, 2020 

My Philosophy...

I believe that every student has a natural capacity for positive growth and development. It is my goal to help create an environment that is conducive to the discovery and fulfillment of this potential. Each of us is unique and has something to contribute to our learning community. By knowing and living into our own strengths of character, we can perform at our best. (You can discover your signature strengths with this free Character Strengths Survey here!)