T-STEP is a free, evidence-based, one-semester college class to help autistic students transition to adulthood. Funding is provided through Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (a division of NC DHHS).  Participation in T-STEP class includes skill instruction, group practice, video modeling, and role-plays. Additionally, students receive individualized counseling focused on self-advocacy, higher education, and employment, along with work-based learning opportunities. Students must be 16-21, enrolled in high school or college, have a confirmed diagnosis of autism, and be able to access college-level materials. Review program details at teacch.com/tstep and register for the next virtual info session at7 p.m. March 25. To request enrollment, email tstepinfo@med.unc.edu.

The Global Public Speaking Challenge is a public speaking contest free for all high schoolers 14-18, with selected participants receiving full or partial scholarships to the TED Summer School. Students are invited to submit a 60-second video responding to this question: “Imagine everyone in the world is listening to you for one minute. What message or idea would you share, and why?” The focus is on student ideas, confidence, and early expression, rather than polished public speaking. Outstanding entries will be eligible for full or partial scholarships to attend the new TED Summer School. Deadline is Feb. 26. For more information, find the competition website here.

The N.C. American Chemical Society's Project SEED is a cost-free, year-round science enrichment program for academically talented students. Project SEED offers a summer internship of $4,000 to first-year students. Students will be assigned to N.C. State, Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, or N.C. Central. The program dates are June 15 - Aug. 7 (8 hours per day for 8 weeks). To be eligible, students must meet specific family income and academic requirements.  Students' maximum family income should not exceed 300% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines based on family size.  In addition to the family income requirement, students must meet the following criteria: competitive academic performance; completed or currently enrolled in chemistry; be in good standing at their North Carolina public high school; be a legal resident of North Carolina and have a Social Security number; currently in 10th or 11th grade; complete the student application in this link;  request that their chemistry teacher complete a teacher recommendation using this link; request an "Official" transcript through wcpss.scriborder.com -- list in the special instructions box this address:
Project SEED
Faye McNeal
14460 Falls of Neuse Rd.
Suite 149-401
Raleigh, NC 27614

The student application, and official transcript must be received by March 1.  The chemistry teacher recommendation must be received by Feb. 17.  

The Prom Shoppe, a two-day event Feb. 27 and 28, provides prom dresses and all accessories to girls who need some help affording prom. For more information about times and location, see the flier.