AP TESTING INFORMATION

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

3/2 No School

3/6-7 PLAN/EXPLORE

3/6-8 MME Testing

3/12 Local Scholarship Applications Due

3/15 Senior Class Survey & Calendar of Events to Seniors During Advisory

3/21 Achievement of Excellence Award Applications Due

3/23 No School – Spring Break Begins

4/2 School Resumes

AP TESTING INFORMATION

Registration for AP Testing is ongoing - deadline is March 16th. The cost of each exam is $87. Checks should be made payable to TCAPS. Testing will take place during the two weeks beginning May 7th. All students must plan on taking the regularly scheduled exam on the dates below. Students on Free/Reduced Lunch can receive assistance with the exam fee. See Mr. Kolbusz or Mrs. Nowak in the Sparta Office for more information.

Spring 2012 Testing for WSH Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen

On March 6th, 7th and 8th, West Senior High students will be participating in MME, ACT, and assessments. These exams are a great opportunity for students to show how much they have learned as well as an opportunity for them to get feedback on areas they need to improve upon to be ready for work or college upon graduation.

Juniors

Will take the ACT (English, Reading, Writing, Math, Science), ACT WorkKeys, MME Math, MME Science, and MME Social Studies on March 6th, 7th and 8th

 

Juniors that attend the TBA Career Tech Center will be excused from CTC to attend testing

 

If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus prior to 8:00 a.m. on those days

 

Visit www.michigan.gov/mme or http://www.actstudent.org/ for more information

Freshmen & Sophomores

Will take the PLAN (English, Reading, Math, Science) on March 6th or 7th

 

Visit http://www.actstudent.org/plan/ for more information

To ensure the BEST possible assessment of what your son or daughter knows and is able to do, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Log on: nmc.edu/selfservice

Web: nmc.edu/financialaid

Email: financialaid@nmc.edu

(231) 995-1035 or 800-748-0566  

The above information was also distributed to all seniors during their January 19th Advisory period.

Spring 2012 Testing for WSH Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen
On March 6th, 7th and 8th, West Senior High students will be participating in MME, ACT, and assessments. These exams are a great opportunity for students to show how much they have learned as well as an opportunity for them to get feedback on areas they need to improve upon to be ready for work or college upon graduation.

Juniors
Will take the ACT (English, Reading, Writing, Math, Science), ACT WorkKeys, MME Math, MME Science, and MME Social Studies on March 6th, 7th and 8th

Juniors that attend the TBA Career Tech Center will be excused from CTC to attend testing

If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus prior to 8:00 a.m. on those days

Visit www.michigan.gov/mme or http://www.actstudent.org/ for more information

Freshmen & Sophomores
Will take the PLAN (English, Reading, Math, Science) on March 6th or 7th

Visit http://www.actstudent.org/plan/ for more information

To ensure the BEST possible assessment of what your son or daughter knows and is able to do, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time.

Michigan Merit Exam Info

The purpose of the Michigan Merit Exam (MME) is to assess students’ understanding of Michigan High School Content Expectations (HSCE’s) in Mathematics, Reading, Science and Social Studies. It also helps students determine if they are keeping up with other students in the state who are at the same grade level.  

Students earn a scale score and performance level (1 through 4) in each subject:

PROFICENT: Level 1 = Exceed Standards, Level 2 = Met Standards

NOT PROFICIENT: Level 3 = Partially Proficient, Level 4 = Not Proficient

Explore, Plan & ACT (EPAS) Info

The purpose of the Educational Planning and Assessment System (EPAS) is to evaluatestudents’ workplace or college readiness . EPAS is a sequence of national assessments (EXPLORE à PLAN à ACT) given each spring that assesses student performance in English, Math, Reading, and Science. The culminating assessment - the ACT - is nationally recognized as a critical component of college admission and scholarship eligibility. The ACT has been in existence for over 50 years and has backed its’ statistical validity and reliability through years of scientific research and case studies.  

Students earn an overall and subject area composite score and national percentile. Each test also informs students if they are below, at, or above the College Readiness Benchmark (CRB) for each subject area. Students that are at or above these College Readiness Benchmarks have a 75% chance or better of passing their freshmen level college classes with a C or better.

In order to better prepare juniors for the ACT/MME, study sessions will be held the end of January and the beginning of February both after school, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., and early evening, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at West Senior High. Subjects for test prep review include test taking tips, math, reading, science and English. Further details regarding these sessions will be released via Alert Now, the announcements, and the West Senior High website. 

If you have further questions, please contact:

TC West Senior High Counseling Office, 933-7700
Joe Esper, Athens Principal/WSH Test Coordinator, 933-7591

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• 1/16 No School
• 2/2 8th into 9th Parent Meeting, 7:00 p.m. WSH
• 2/9 Achievement of Excellence Award Application Information Available to Seniors During Advisory
• 2/9 Local Scholarship Information Available to Seniors During Advisory  
   

FOR SENIORS:

Achievement of Excellence Award. At West Senior High, the Achievement of Excellence Award is the highest award given to our seniors at the end of the school year. West does not select a single valedictorian or salutatorian. Instead, we offer any senior student with at least a 3.0 GPA, who will have attended West Senior High for at least two trimesters, the opportunity to nominate him or herself to receive this award. If you are a senior who has set a distinguished example through academic achievement, attendance, and proven skills in the adult roles of citizen, healthy and fit individual, family member, life-long learner, and worker, you should apply for the award. In order to be considered for this prestigious award, you should obtain an application and follow the instructions provided. Applications will be available in your advisory class on Thursday, February 9th, and must be completed and returned to the Counseling Office by Wednesday, March 21st.

Local Scholarship Application. Every year several local scholarships are given at West High School. To be eligible for these scholarships you need to complete an application on-line through the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation. Most scholarships can be used at the college of the student’s choice. Students may go to www.gtrcf.or.org/TCWest and access the local scholarship application for West Senior High starting on February 13, 2012. On-line applications must be completed by midnight on March 12, 2012.

IMPORTANT DATES

You may register online for the ACT at www.actstudent.org and the SAT at www.collegeboard.com.

ACT Test Information
ACT Test Dates	Regular Registration Postmark Deadlines	Late Registration Postmark Deadlines
Feb. 11	Jan. 13	Jan. 20
April 14	Mar. 9	Mar. 23
June 9	May 4	May 18

  

SAT Test Information
SAT Test Dates	Regular Registration Postmark Deadlines	Late Registration Postmark Deadlines
Jan. 28	Dec. 30, 2011	Jan. 13
Mar. 10	Feb. 10	Feb. 24
May 5	April 6	April 20
June 2	May 8	May 22

SAT II (Achievement Tests) information, applications and registration materials are available online at www.collegeboard.com. 

ATTENTION CURRENT FRESHMEN, SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS: Tentative Enrollment for 2011/2012 School Year
 

January 12th – 11th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, January 26th.  

January 19th – 10th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, February 2nd.

January 26th – 9th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, February 9th.
 

February 2nd – Evening meeting with 8th grade parents – 7:00 p.m. WSH Auditorium 
 

February 9th – Counselors distribute enrollment materials to current 8th grade students at West Middle School.
 

Parents are encouraged to discuss course selections with their students. Each student will have a Curriculum Guide that can be used as a resource for course selection. Contact the appropriate counselor if you have questions.

STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)

The Students in Transition Empowerment Program (STEP) at TC West would like you to be aware that it can provide eligible students with help in receiving their driver's license. We can provide monetary and navigational assistance to STEP eligible students who are regularly attending class and passing each of their classes. Additionally, STEP is a program that can offer many other resources or assistance to those in need. A STEP eligible student is one who does not live with a guardian or one whose family is in or has been in a housing transition this school year due to financial restraints and/or living in inadequate or unstable housing. Please contact Lauran Gentry if you are interested in learning more about a student who can use STEP's assistance. Lauran's email is gentryla@tcaps.net or she can be reached by phone at 933-7544.

WSH STUDENT SERVICES STAFF DIRECTORY
Jennifer Bishop ………………………………..933-7715
Counselor (A-E)

Ashley VanLandschoot ……………………… 933-7704
Counselor (F-K)

Carrie Inglis …………………………………. 933-7705
Counselor (L-R)

Tom Ford …………………………………… 933-7706
Counselor (S-Z)

Jennifer Roy, Receptionist …………………. 933-7700

Gloria Bersok, Secretary …………………… 933-7703

Janet Hughes, Student Assistance ………….. 933-7749

Tina Soyring/Liisa Szarapski ………………. 933-7524
School Nurses

Jill Cheever, Registrar ……………………… 933-7702


CALENDAR OF EVENTS
12/6 Financial Aid Program @ CHS Cafeteria – 7:00 p.m.
12/22 Holiday Break Begins After 1/2 Day of School
1/3 School Resumes After Holiday Break
1/16 No School – Holiday


FOR SENIORS
Access to filing a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on-line will be available on or after January 1st at www.fafsa.ed.gov.  The Federal Government processing center would prefer that students file on-line. The information from these forms is used by colleges to determine the amount of financial aid given to each student based on financial need. Students and their parents can use either the paper form or the on-line process. Information for filing the FAFSA is available in the Counseling Office. Since the information required is from 2011, forms may not be submitted until after January 1, 2012 and should be completed by March 1, 2012 (individual colleges may have earlier filing deadlines). Contact your preferred college to see if they have a later deadline. If your family plans to file the FAFSA on-line (www.fafsa.ed.gov), you should create PIN numbers for both the student and parent. In order to be eligible for need based assistance as well as many scholarships and university aid, students must complete the FAFSA form. A FAFSA PIN number can be created NOW at www.fafsa.ed.gov  


EXPLORE, PLAN & ACT (EPAS) INFO
The purpose of the Educational Planning and Assessment System (EPAS) is to evaluate students’ workplace or college readiness. EPAS is a sequence of national assessments (EXPLORE -> PLAN -> ACT) given each spring that assesses student performance in English, Math, Reading, and Science. The culminating assessment - the ACT - is nationally recognized as a critical component of college admission and scholarship eligibility. The ACT has been in existence for over 50 years and has backed its’ statistical validity and reliability through years of scientific research and case studies.

Students earn an overall and subject area composite score and national percentile. Each test also informs students if they are below, at, or above the College Readiness Benchmark (CRB) for each subject area. Students that are at or above these College Readiness Benchmarks have a 75% chance or better of passing their freshmen level college classes with a C or better.

In order to better prepare Juniors for the ACT/MME, study sessions will be held the end of January and the beginning of February both after school, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., and early evenings, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at West Senior High. Subjects for test prep review include test taking tips, math, reading, science and English. Further details regarding these sessions will be released via Alert Now, the announcements, and the West Senior High website.

If you have further questions, please contact:
Joe Esper, Assistant Principal/Test Coordinator – 933-7591
TC West Senior High Counseling Center – 933-7700


WEST SENIOR HIGH NURSING OFFICE
Tina Soyring and Liisa Szarapski are the nurses at West Senior High. They are available to help promote and protect the health of students by providing health services, health education and a healthy environment. Please do not hesitate to use the nurses as a health resource for your family. They are here on Mondays, Wednesdays and ½ day Fridays and can be reached at 933-7524.


FROM THE DESK OF: 
Janet Hughes, Social Worker - Student Assistance Program
Recognizing that difficult economic times are affecting our region, the following community resources are available for assistance:
If you need:

Utilities/Security Deposit/Rent:
Northwest Community Action Agency - 947-3780
Dept. of Human Services - 941-3900
CMH Path Program (if a mental illness diagnosis) - 933-4921

Transportation:
BATA - 941-2324
Health Ride - 941-2386
Workers on Wheels - 922-4890 ext. 312

Housing Assistance:
NW Community Action Agency - 947-3780
Traverse City Housing Commission - 922-4915

Home Ownership:
NW Michigan Human Services - 947-3780
Habitat for Humanity - 941-4663
Home Stretch - 947-6001

In Financial Need:
Department of Human Services - 941-3900

Disabled:
Disability Network - 922-0903
Social Security - 946-8361

Food (Groceries):
Contact LOVE to be referred to a food pantry - 941-5683
Father Fred Foundation - 947-2055
Resurrection Life Church Mobil Pantry (monthly)
2nd Tuesday, 3:00 pm, E. Commerce Dr., Grawn

Health/Dental:
Traverse City Health Clinic - 935-0668
(Walk-in clinic, Wed. & Fri., 9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Youth Health & Wellness Center (M-F, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, ages 10-21) –
922-6416
GT Health Dept. - 1-877-321-7070
Dental Clinic North - 932-7316
Dental Clinics for those with Medicaid - 943-8409
Medicaid - 941-3900 (DHS)
MI Child - 922-4831 ext. 4
CHAP (Traverse Health Clinic & Coalition) - 935-0799
(Helpful if you don’t have health insurance)
Loan Closet (Wheelchairs, other medical supplies) - 922-2349

Group Information
Some of the groups that we have running this year are:

• A Concerned Persons group for students whose family member has a drug or alcohol problem.
• Anger Management Group for girls and one for boys.
• A support group for boys who are struggling with grades and making good choices.
• We are considering a future grief group for students who have experienced a significant loss.
• If we have enough interested students, we will also be running a group learning how to manage anxiety.

If interested, please call Janet Hughes, Social Worker, at 933-7749.


STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)
Please remember that TCAPS' STEP program could help your student and family if you are experiencing difficulties with housing. If you have lost your home, have been evicted, if a student is not living with a guardian, or is not living in a suitable environment, please contact Lauran Gentry, STEP Specialist for West Senior High School. Lauran's office number is (231) 933-7544 or she can be reached by email at gentryla@tcaps.net.  


BULLETIN BOARDS
The Counseling Office has three bulletin boards students will want to look at periodically.

1. “Create Your Future” has information for Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors regarding the school year time line.

2. “Selective Colleges” has information regarding selective colleges.

3. “Financial Aid and Scholarships”

All of the bulletin boards are updated as we receive information. Students may want to stop by periodically to check for new information.

LOST AND FOUND
The Lost & Found Box is located in the Counseling Office. If your student has lost something, please send them to the office to see if it happens to be there. Items not claimed after two weeks will be given to a local charity.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• 9/26 PSAT Registration Begins in the Counseling Office
• 10/11 College Night @ Great Lakes Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center
• 10/15 PSAT at West Senior High & Central High Schools
• 10/27 Planning for Your Future @ WSH
• 10/27 Jostens 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Place Cap/Gown/Announcement Orders
• 10/28 Jostens 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Place Cap/Gown/Announcement Orders
• 11/9 Girl Tech (Non-Traditional Career Seminar for 10th Grade Girls)
• 12/6 Financial Aid Program (Central High School Auditorium) – 7:00 p.m. (General Financial Information for Parents of Seniors)

SENIOR NEWS
Seniors have received a “Senior Time Line” during advisory, which included information
about the senior year and the college application process.

Many college applications are now available online. Seniors are encouraged to have all
college applications completed prior to December 1st.

Prospective student athletes should go online to register at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net or www.naia.cstv.com. This is a requirement for athletes who will attend college. ACT scores should also be released to these organizations directly from ACT. Web users should request a transcript to be sent to NCAA from Mrs. Bersok in the Counseling Center or from the Secure Transcript link on our website. NCAA Clearinghouse registration is required for Division I & II athletes.

Most colleges in Michigan will be sending representatives to West Senior High throughout the 1st & 2nd trimesters. A schedule is posted next to the Counseling Office entrance. Interested students should sign up in the Counseling Office.

FINANCIAL AID: Financial Aid information will be provided by the West Senior High Counselors in December. Students may also do financial aid searches online (see Scholarship/Financial Aid Search information).

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

DUAL ENROLLMENT: Seniors who are interested in dual enrolling for 2nd semester at NMC should see their counselor prior to November 1st.

ACT-MME: Seniors at West Senior High who did not take the ACT-MME last spring must test on March 6-8, 2012.


JUNIOR NEWS
Juniors have received a “Junior Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the junior year and getting ready for senior year.

The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test) is scheduled for October 15, 2011 at West Senior High. This test provides a preparation for the SAT and is also used to determine National Merit recognition. Registration will begin on September 26, 2011 in the Counseling Center. An $18.00 fee (checks made payable to “TCAPS”) is required at the time of registration.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial Aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.


SOPHOMORE NEWS
Sophomores have received a “Sophomore Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the sophomore year and getting ready for their education beyond high school.

The PLAN (Pre-ACT) Test is scheduled for the first week of March 2012 at West Senior High. All sophomores will take this test in preparation for the Michigan Merit Exam (ACT) in their junior year.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.


FRESHMAN NEWS
Freshmen have received a “Freshman Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the freshman year and getting ready for their education beyond high school.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.

MEAP TEST: Social Studies will be taken by all freshmen on October 19th.

EXPLORE TEST: First week of March 2012


TRANSCRIPT REQUEST NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE
When you’re applying to college, order your transcripts online. TCAPS has joined forces with Docufide by Parchment to bring you Secure Transcript – the safe, paperless way to send transcripts directly to the colleges you choose. It’s easy, it’s secure, and it’s available 24/7.

Docufide sends your official transcript, checked and approved by your school, to the colleges and scholarship funds you choose. You receive an email confirming your transcript was sent. For colleges that accept transcripts electronically, Docufide will confirm when the college receives your transcript.

Here’s how it works:

• Sign up – Find the Secure Transcript link on the Counseling Department page of the WSH web site. You will create an account (you will need an email address so you can be contacted).
• Choose – Select the colleges for which you are applying (addresses are already in the system or choose your own destination).
• Sign off – Confirm and approve your order – and you’re done!

Questions? Contact your counseling office at 933-7703 for assistance.


MICHIGAN MERIT EXAM
Spring 2012: The Michigan Merit Exam for juniors is scheduled for March 6-8, 2012 at West Senior High. Components of the MME include ACT plus writing, Michigan Workkeys (applied reading and math), Michigan science and social studies.

Testing will take place during the morning. All juniors are expected to be on campus during testing times and will be excused from morning TBA programs, including Culinary Arts. If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus no later than 8:05 a.m. on those days. Attendance is very important during the testing window so please make every possible effort to ensure your student is present on March 6-8.

To ensure the BEST possible testing situation for your student, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time. Encourage your student to do his or her best. Advisory teachers will distribute more information about the Michigan Merit Exam during an advisory period in February.

For those of you who wish to find out more about the MME, visit the web site www.michigan/gov/mme. If you have further questions about the Michigan Merit Exam, please feel free to contact our office at 933-7591.

Click Here For 2011-2012 ACT & SAT Testing Dates
NOTE: Juniors will take the ACT as part of the Michigan Merit Exams in the spring of their junior year. Students may release scores for the ACT portion of the merit exam for college admission.

FROM THE DESK OF …… JANET HUGHES
Social Worker-Student Assistance Program
You might be asking, “What is a Student Assistance Program (SAP)?” SAP provides assistance to students troubled by social, emotional, family or substance abuse problems, which may be negatively impacting their educational experience. The program utilizes community resources for prevention efforts and outside referrals and enlists the support and involvement of parents, staff and students in helping our students be successful at T.C. West. The program is free, confidential, professional and available to students anytime during the school day. Click here to learn more or call Janet Hughes at 933-7749 for additional program information or for an appointment.

10 Steps to Independence
Your adolescent’s high school years are important years for social and emotional growth. This is an important time for you, too, as parents. There are countless “little steps” (and some not so little) to take along the way that prepares your teen for young adulthood and gives you the opportunity to prepare for letting go. Here are some suggestions for the journey:

1. Learn when to step back – give your child a chance to work things out.
2. Help your teen learn to negotiate conflicts – doing this in a respectful, mature way avoids problems later.
3. Help your teen cope with disappointment.
4. Support your teen’s interests and passions.
5. Encourage and help your teen to advocate for themselves – this builds confidence.
6. Encourage your teen to dream big dreams and set achievable goals.
7. Start to loosen the “reigns” – increase freedom and responsibility.
8. Teach them to manage money – great lesson for when they are on their own!
9. Be a “coach” – young people need and want encouragement, your interest and compliments.
10. Remain an “anchor” – encourage your teen to turn to you in good times and bad. Stay steady even if your teen is shaky. You can provide a place for solace, encouragement, safety and admiration.

The social worker will see all students (9th through 12th) in all neighborhoods.


STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)
STEP is a free program offered by Traverse City Area Public School that provides supportive education-related services to all students, Pre-K through Grade 12, who do not have permanent housing. The program is funded by a grant through the Michigan Department of Education under the Stewart B. McKinney Act. This federal law requires that school districts remove barriers to the enrollment, attendance, and success of children and youth in school. Please contact the STEP Coordinator at 933-8991 or WSH STEP Specialist Lauran Gentry at 933-7544 for assistance in determining your child’s eligibility for STEP services. Click here to learn more.

WEST SENIOR HIGH NURSING OFFICE
Tina Soyring and Liisa Szarapski are the nurses at West Senior High. They are available to help promote and protect the health of students by providing health services, health education and a healthy environment. Please do not hesitate to use the nurses as a health resource for your family. They are here on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday mornings and can be reached at 933-7524. Click here for more health information.

SCHOLARSHIP/FINANCIAL AID SEARCH DATABASES
Scholarship opportunities during the school year are listed on our daily announcements, posted here on our website at or you can visit the Counseling Center for additional information.

• www.absolutelyscholarships.com
  A free database with over 200,000 scholarships

• www.fastweb.com
  A free database of more than 180,000 scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans. New scholarships are frequently added to the database.

• www.freschinfo.com
  A free, large database of scholarships (1,730+) as well as a weekly newsletter with information about various scholarships, tips on applying, and the latest change to the website.

• www.fafsa.ed.gov

• www.mappingyourfuture.org

• www.finaid.org

• www.collegeboard.com

• www.studentaid.ed.gov
  has help lines available to students and families

• www.uscollegesearch.org
  has free online resources for college-bound students.

HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE:

Career Exploration:

• www.careercruising.com
• www.bls.gov/oco
• www.onetcenter.org
• www.acinet.org
• www.careervoyages.gov

College Resources:

• www.princetonreview.com
• www.petersons.com
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.campustours.com
• www.collegeview.com
• www.uscollegesearch.org

Vocational Schools:

• www.rwm.org
• www.khake.com
• www.vocational-schools.info
• www.collegebound.net

Scholarship/Financial Aid Information:

• www.ed.gov
• www.fafsa.ed.gov
• www.fastweb.com
• www.finaid.org
• www.careersandcolleges.com
• www.mappingyourfuture.org
• www.students.gov

Test Preparation:

• www.act.org
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.testtakingtips.com

Military Info:

• www.navy.com
• www.nationalguard.com
• www.usmc.mil
• www.airforce.com
• www.army.mil
• www.military.com
• www.uscg.mil

College Preparation:

• https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.ed.gov
• www.petersons.com
• www.usnews.com/
• https://edweb.educ.msu.edu/collegeinsider

AP TESTING INFORMATION

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

3/2 No School

3/6-7 PLAN/EXPLORE

3/6-8 MME Testing

3/12 Local Scholarship Applications Due

3/15 Senior Class Survey & Calendar of Events to Seniors During Advisory

3/21 Achievement of Excellence Award Applications Due

3/23 No School – Spring Break Begins

4/2 School Resumes

AP TESTING INFORMATION

Registration for AP Testing is ongoing - deadline is March 16th. The cost of each exam is $87. Checks should be made payable to TCAPS. Testing will take place during the two weeks beginning May 7th. All students must plan on taking the regularly scheduled exam on the dates below. Students on Free/Reduced Lunch can receive assistance with the exam fee. See Mr. Kolbusz or Mrs. Nowak in the Sparta Office for more information.

Spring 2012 Testing for WSH Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen

On March 6th, 7th and 8th, West Senior High students will be participating in MME, ACT, and assessments. These exams are a great opportunity for students to show how much they have learned as well as an opportunity for them to get feedback on areas they need to improve upon to be ready for work or college upon graduation.

Juniors

Will take the ACT (English, Reading, Writing, Math, Science), ACT WorkKeys, MME Math, MME Science, and MME Social Studies on March 6th, 7th and 8th

 

Juniors that attend the TBA Career Tech Center will be excused from CTC to attend testing

 

If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus prior to 8:00 a.m. on those days

 

Visit www.michigan.gov/mme or http://www.actstudent.org/ for more information

Freshmen & Sophomores

Will take the PLAN (English, Reading, Math, Science) on March 6th or 7th

 

Visit http://www.actstudent.org/plan/ for more information

To ensure the BEST possible assessment of what your son or daughter knows and is able to do, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Log on: nmc.edu/selfservice

Web: nmc.edu/financialaid

Email: financialaid@nmc.edu

(231) 995-1035 or 800-748-0566  

The above information was also distributed to all seniors during their January 19th Advisory period.

Spring 2012 Testing for WSH Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen
On March 6th, 7th and 8th, West Senior High students will be participating in MME, ACT, and assessments. These exams are a great opportunity for students to show how much they have learned as well as an opportunity for them to get feedback on areas they need to improve upon to be ready for work or college upon graduation.

Juniors
Will take the ACT (English, Reading, Writing, Math, Science), ACT WorkKeys, MME Math, MME Science, and MME Social Studies on March 6th, 7th and 8th

Juniors that attend the TBA Career Tech Center will be excused from CTC to attend testing

If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus prior to 8:00 a.m. on those days

Visit www.michigan.gov/mme or http://www.actstudent.org/ for more information

Freshmen & Sophomores
Will take the PLAN (English, Reading, Math, Science) on March 6th or 7th

Visit http://www.actstudent.org/plan/ for more information

To ensure the BEST possible assessment of what your son or daughter knows and is able to do, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time.

Michigan Merit Exam Info

The purpose of the Michigan Merit Exam (MME) is to assess students’ understanding of Michigan High School Content Expectations (HSCE’s) in Mathematics, Reading, Science and Social Studies. It also helps students determine if they are keeping up with other students in the state who are at the same grade level.  

Students earn a scale score and performance level (1 through 4) in each subject:

PROFICENT: Level 1 = Exceed Standards, Level 2 = Met Standards

NOT PROFICIENT: Level 3 = Partially Proficient, Level 4 = Not Proficient

Explore, Plan & ACT (EPAS) Info

The purpose of the Educational Planning and Assessment System (EPAS) is to evaluatestudents’ workplace or college readiness . EPAS is a sequence of national assessments (EXPLORE à PLAN à ACT) given each spring that assesses student performance in English, Math, Reading, and Science. The culminating assessment - the ACT - is nationally recognized as a critical component of college admission and scholarship eligibility. The ACT has been in existence for over 50 years and has backed its’ statistical validity and reliability through years of scientific research and case studies.  

Students earn an overall and subject area composite score and national percentile. Each test also informs students if they are below, at, or above the College Readiness Benchmark (CRB) for each subject area. Students that are at or above these College Readiness Benchmarks have a 75% chance or better of passing their freshmen level college classes with a C or better.

In order to better prepare juniors for the ACT/MME, study sessions will be held the end of January and the beginning of February both after school, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., and early evening, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at West Senior High. Subjects for test prep review include test taking tips, math, reading, science and English. Further details regarding these sessions will be released via Alert Now, the announcements, and the West Senior High website. 

If you have further questions, please contact:

TC West Senior High Counseling Office, 933-7700
Joe Esper, Athens Principal/WSH Test Coordinator, 933-7591

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• 1/16 No School
• 2/2 8th into 9th Parent Meeting, 7:00 p.m. WSH
• 2/9 Achievement of Excellence Award Application Information Available to Seniors During Advisory
• 2/9 Local Scholarship Information Available to Seniors During Advisory  
   

FOR SENIORS:

Achievement of Excellence Award. At West Senior High, the Achievement of Excellence Award is the highest award given to our seniors at the end of the school year. West does not select a single valedictorian or salutatorian. Instead, we offer any senior student with at least a 3.0 GPA, who will have attended West Senior High for at least two trimesters, the opportunity to nominate him or herself to receive this award. If you are a senior who has set a distinguished example through academic achievement, attendance, and proven skills in the adult roles of citizen, healthy and fit individual, family member, life-long learner, and worker, you should apply for the award. In order to be considered for this prestigious award, you should obtain an application and follow the instructions provided. Applications will be available in your advisory class on Thursday, February 9th, and must be completed and returned to the Counseling Office by Wednesday, March 21st.

Local Scholarship Application. Every year several local scholarships are given at West High School. To be eligible for these scholarships you need to complete an application on-line through the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation. Most scholarships can be used at the college of the student’s choice. Students may go to www.gtrcf.or.org/TCWest and access the local scholarship application for West Senior High starting on February 13, 2012. On-line applications must be completed by midnight on March 12, 2012.

IMPORTANT DATES

You may register online for the ACT at www.actstudent.org and the SAT at www.collegeboard.com.

ACT Test Information
ACT Test Dates	Regular Registration Postmark Deadlines	Late Registration Postmark Deadlines
Feb. 11	Jan. 13	Jan. 20
April 14	Mar. 9	Mar. 23
June 9	May 4	May 18

  

SAT Test Information
SAT Test Dates	Regular Registration Postmark Deadlines	Late Registration Postmark Deadlines
Jan. 28	Dec. 30, 2011	Jan. 13
Mar. 10	Feb. 10	Feb. 24
May 5	April 6	April 20
June 2	May 8	May 22

SAT II (Achievement Tests) information, applications and registration materials are available online at www.collegeboard.com. 

ATTENTION CURRENT FRESHMEN, SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS: Tentative Enrollment for 2011/2012 School Year
 

January 12th – 11th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, January 26th.  

January 19th – 10th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, February 2nd.

January 26th – 9th graders receive their enrollment materials during advisory. Course selection sheets are due in the Counseling Office on Thursday, February 9th.
 

February 2nd – Evening meeting with 8th grade parents – 7:00 p.m. WSH Auditorium 
 

February 9th – Counselors distribute enrollment materials to current 8th grade students at West Middle School.
 

Parents are encouraged to discuss course selections with their students. Each student will have a Curriculum Guide that can be used as a resource for course selection. Contact the appropriate counselor if you have questions.

STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)

The Students in Transition Empowerment Program (STEP) at TC West would like you to be aware that it can provide eligible students with help in receiving their driver's license. We can provide monetary and navigational assistance to STEP eligible students who are regularly attending class and passing each of their classes. Additionally, STEP is a program that can offer many other resources or assistance to those in need. A STEP eligible student is one who does not live with a guardian or one whose family is in or has been in a housing transition this school year due to financial restraints and/or living in inadequate or unstable housing. Please contact Lauran Gentry if you are interested in learning more about a student who can use STEP's assistance. Lauran's email is gentryla@tcaps.net or she can be reached by phone at 933-7544.

WSH STUDENT SERVICES STAFF DIRECTORY
Jennifer Bishop ………………………………..933-7715
Counselor (A-E)

Ashley VanLandschoot ……………………… 933-7704
Counselor (F-K)

Carrie Inglis …………………………………. 933-7705
Counselor (L-R)

Tom Ford …………………………………… 933-7706
Counselor (S-Z)

Jennifer Roy, Receptionist …………………. 933-7700

Gloria Bersok, Secretary …………………… 933-7703

Janet Hughes, Student Assistance ………….. 933-7749

Tina Soyring/Liisa Szarapski ………………. 933-7524
School Nurses

Jill Cheever, Registrar ……………………… 933-7702


CALENDAR OF EVENTS
12/6 Financial Aid Program @ CHS Cafeteria – 7:00 p.m.
12/22 Holiday Break Begins After 1/2 Day of School
1/3 School Resumes After Holiday Break
1/16 No School – Holiday


FOR SENIORS
Access to filing a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on-line will be available on or after January 1st at www.fafsa.ed.gov.  The Federal Government processing center would prefer that students file on-line. The information from these forms is used by colleges to determine the amount of financial aid given to each student based on financial need. Students and their parents can use either the paper form or the on-line process. Information for filing the FAFSA is available in the Counseling Office. Since the information required is from 2011, forms may not be submitted until after January 1, 2012 and should be completed by March 1, 2012 (individual colleges may have earlier filing deadlines). Contact your preferred college to see if they have a later deadline. If your family plans to file the FAFSA on-line (www.fafsa.ed.gov), you should create PIN numbers for both the student and parent. In order to be eligible for need based assistance as well as many scholarships and university aid, students must complete the FAFSA form. A FAFSA PIN number can be created NOW at www.fafsa.ed.gov  


EXPLORE, PLAN & ACT (EPAS) INFO
The purpose of the Educational Planning and Assessment System (EPAS) is to evaluate students’ workplace or college readiness. EPAS is a sequence of national assessments (EXPLORE -> PLAN -> ACT) given each spring that assesses student performance in English, Math, Reading, and Science. The culminating assessment - the ACT - is nationally recognized as a critical component of college admission and scholarship eligibility. The ACT has been in existence for over 50 years and has backed its’ statistical validity and reliability through years of scientific research and case studies.

Students earn an overall and subject area composite score and national percentile. Each test also informs students if they are below, at, or above the College Readiness Benchmark (CRB) for each subject area. Students that are at or above these College Readiness Benchmarks have a 75% chance or better of passing their freshmen level college classes with a C or better.

In order to better prepare Juniors for the ACT/MME, study sessions will be held the end of January and the beginning of February both after school, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m., and early evenings, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., at West Senior High. Subjects for test prep review include test taking tips, math, reading, science and English. Further details regarding these sessions will be released via Alert Now, the announcements, and the West Senior High website.

If you have further questions, please contact:
Joe Esper, Assistant Principal/Test Coordinator – 933-7591
TC West Senior High Counseling Center – 933-7700


WEST SENIOR HIGH NURSING OFFICE
Tina Soyring and Liisa Szarapski are the nurses at West Senior High. They are available to help promote and protect the health of students by providing health services, health education and a healthy environment. Please do not hesitate to use the nurses as a health resource for your family. They are here on Mondays, Wednesdays and ½ day Fridays and can be reached at 933-7524.


FROM THE DESK OF: 
Janet Hughes, Social Worker - Student Assistance Program
Recognizing that difficult economic times are affecting our region, the following community resources are available for assistance:
If you need:

Utilities/Security Deposit/Rent:
Northwest Community Action Agency - 947-3780
Dept. of Human Services - 941-3900
CMH Path Program (if a mental illness diagnosis) - 933-4921

Transportation:
BATA - 941-2324
Health Ride - 941-2386
Workers on Wheels - 922-4890 ext. 312

Housing Assistance:
NW Community Action Agency - 947-3780
Traverse City Housing Commission - 922-4915

Home Ownership:
NW Michigan Human Services - 947-3780
Habitat for Humanity - 941-4663
Home Stretch - 947-6001

In Financial Need:
Department of Human Services - 941-3900

Disabled:
Disability Network - 922-0903
Social Security - 946-8361

Food (Groceries):
Contact LOVE to be referred to a food pantry - 941-5683
Father Fred Foundation - 947-2055
Resurrection Life Church Mobil Pantry (monthly)
2nd Tuesday, 3:00 pm, E. Commerce Dr., Grawn

Health/Dental:
Traverse City Health Clinic - 935-0668
(Walk-in clinic, Wed. & Fri., 9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Youth Health & Wellness Center (M-F, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, ages 10-21) –
922-6416
GT Health Dept. - 1-877-321-7070
Dental Clinic North - 932-7316
Dental Clinics for those with Medicaid - 943-8409
Medicaid - 941-3900 (DHS)
MI Child - 922-4831 ext. 4
CHAP (Traverse Health Clinic & Coalition) - 935-0799
(Helpful if you don’t have health insurance)
Loan Closet (Wheelchairs, other medical supplies) - 922-2349

Group Information
Some of the groups that we have running this year are:

• A Concerned Persons group for students whose family member has a drug or alcohol problem.
• Anger Management Group for girls and one for boys.
• A support group for boys who are struggling with grades and making good choices.
• We are considering a future grief group for students who have experienced a significant loss.
• If we have enough interested students, we will also be running a group learning how to manage anxiety.

If interested, please call Janet Hughes, Social Worker, at 933-7749.


STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)
Please remember that TCAPS' STEP program could help your student and family if you are experiencing difficulties with housing. If you have lost your home, have been evicted, if a student is not living with a guardian, or is not living in a suitable environment, please contact Lauran Gentry, STEP Specialist for West Senior High School. Lauran's office number is (231) 933-7544 or she can be reached by email at gentryla@tcaps.net.  


BULLETIN BOARDS
The Counseling Office has three bulletin boards students will want to look at periodically.

1. “Create Your Future” has information for Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors regarding the school year time line.

2. “Selective Colleges” has information regarding selective colleges.

3. “Financial Aid and Scholarships”

All of the bulletin boards are updated as we receive information. Students may want to stop by periodically to check for new information.

LOST AND FOUND
The Lost & Found Box is located in the Counseling Office. If your student has lost something, please send them to the office to see if it happens to be there. Items not claimed after two weeks will be given to a local charity.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• 9/26 PSAT Registration Begins in the Counseling Office
• 10/11 College Night @ Great Lakes Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center
• 10/15 PSAT at West Senior High & Central High Schools
• 10/27 Planning for Your Future @ WSH
• 10/27 Jostens 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Place Cap/Gown/Announcement Orders
• 10/28 Jostens 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Place Cap/Gown/Announcement Orders
• 11/9 Girl Tech (Non-Traditional Career Seminar for 10th Grade Girls)
• 12/6 Financial Aid Program (Central High School Auditorium) – 7:00 p.m. (General Financial Information for Parents of Seniors)

SENIOR NEWS
Seniors have received a “Senior Time Line” during advisory, which included information
about the senior year and the college application process.

Many college applications are now available online. Seniors are encouraged to have all
college applications completed prior to December 1st.

Prospective student athletes should go online to register at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net or www.naia.cstv.com. This is a requirement for athletes who will attend college. ACT scores should also be released to these organizations directly from ACT. Web users should request a transcript to be sent to NCAA from Mrs. Bersok in the Counseling Center or from the Secure Transcript link on our website. NCAA Clearinghouse registration is required for Division I & II athletes.

Most colleges in Michigan will be sending representatives to West Senior High throughout the 1st & 2nd trimesters. A schedule is posted next to the Counseling Office entrance. Interested students should sign up in the Counseling Office.

FINANCIAL AID: Financial Aid information will be provided by the West Senior High Counselors in December. Students may also do financial aid searches online (see Scholarship/Financial Aid Search information).

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

DUAL ENROLLMENT: Seniors who are interested in dual enrolling for 2nd semester at NMC should see their counselor prior to November 1st.

ACT-MME: Seniors at West Senior High who did not take the ACT-MME last spring must test on March 6-8, 2012.


JUNIOR NEWS
Juniors have received a “Junior Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the junior year and getting ready for senior year.

The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test) is scheduled for October 15, 2011 at West Senior High. This test provides a preparation for the SAT and is also used to determine National Merit recognition. Registration will begin on September 26, 2011 in the Counseling Center. An $18.00 fee (checks made payable to “TCAPS”) is required at the time of registration.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial Aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.


SOPHOMORE NEWS
Sophomores have received a “Sophomore Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the sophomore year and getting ready for their education beyond high school.

The PLAN (Pre-ACT) Test is scheduled for the first week of March 2012 at West Senior High. All sophomores will take this test in preparation for the Michigan Merit Exam (ACT) in their junior year.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.


FRESHMAN NEWS
Freshmen have received a “Freshman Time Line” during advisory, which included information about the freshman year and getting ready for their education beyond high school.

COLLEGE NIGHT: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the Maritime Academy/Hagerty Center, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE: Thursday, October 27, 2011 at West Senior High Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Topics include: The college admissions process for both traditional and selective schools; Earning college credit before your high school graduation; Financial aid; Researching careers, scholarships and colleges via the Internet.

MEAP TEST: Social Studies will be taken by all freshmen on October 19th.

EXPLORE TEST: First week of March 2012


TRANSCRIPT REQUEST NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE
When you’re applying to college, order your transcripts online. TCAPS has joined forces with Docufide by Parchment to bring you Secure Transcript – the safe, paperless way to send transcripts directly to the colleges you choose. It’s easy, it’s secure, and it’s available 24/7.

Docufide sends your official transcript, checked and approved by your school, to the colleges and scholarship funds you choose. You receive an email confirming your transcript was sent. For colleges that accept transcripts electronically, Docufide will confirm when the college receives your transcript.

Here’s how it works:

• Sign up – Find the Secure Transcript link on the Counseling Department page of the WSH web site. You will create an account (you will need an email address so you can be contacted).
• Choose – Select the colleges for which you are applying (addresses are already in the system or choose your own destination).
• Sign off – Confirm and approve your order – and you’re done!

Questions? Contact your counseling office at 933-7703 for assistance.


MICHIGAN MERIT EXAM
Spring 2012: The Michigan Merit Exam for juniors is scheduled for March 6-8, 2012 at West Senior High. Components of the MME include ACT plus writing, Michigan Workkeys (applied reading and math), Michigan science and social studies.

Testing will take place during the morning. All juniors are expected to be on campus during testing times and will be excused from morning TBA programs, including Culinary Arts. If your student has a reduced schedule with no first hour, it is important that he or she be on campus no later than 8:05 a.m. on those days. Attendance is very important during the testing window so please make every possible effort to ensure your student is present on March 6-8.

To ensure the BEST possible testing situation for your student, please make sure your child gets plenty of sleep the night before, has a good breakfast, and is on time. Encourage your student to do his or her best. Advisory teachers will distribute more information about the Michigan Merit Exam during an advisory period in February.

For those of you who wish to find out more about the MME, visit the web site www.michigan/gov/mme. If you have further questions about the Michigan Merit Exam, please feel free to contact our office at 933-7591.

Click Here For 2011-2012 ACT & SAT Testing Dates
NOTE: Juniors will take the ACT as part of the Michigan Merit Exams in the spring of their junior year. Students may release scores for the ACT portion of the merit exam for college admission.

FROM THE DESK OF …… JANET HUGHES
Social Worker-Student Assistance Program
You might be asking, “What is a Student Assistance Program (SAP)?” SAP provides assistance to students troubled by social, emotional, family or substance abuse problems, which may be negatively impacting their educational experience. The program utilizes community resources for prevention efforts and outside referrals and enlists the support and involvement of parents, staff and students in helping our students be successful at T.C. West. The program is free, confidential, professional and available to students anytime during the school day. Click here to learn more or call Janet Hughes at 933-7749 for additional program information or for an appointment.

10 Steps to Independence
Your adolescent’s high school years are important years for social and emotional growth. This is an important time for you, too, as parents. There are countless “little steps” (and some not so little) to take along the way that prepares your teen for young adulthood and gives you the opportunity to prepare for letting go. Here are some suggestions for the journey:

1. Learn when to step back – give your child a chance to work things out.
2. Help your teen learn to negotiate conflicts – doing this in a respectful, mature way avoids problems later.
3. Help your teen cope with disappointment.
4. Support your teen’s interests and passions.
5. Encourage and help your teen to advocate for themselves – this builds confidence.
6. Encourage your teen to dream big dreams and set achievable goals.
7. Start to loosen the “reigns” – increase freedom and responsibility.
8. Teach them to manage money – great lesson for when they are on their own!
9. Be a “coach” – young people need and want encouragement, your interest and compliments.
10. Remain an “anchor” – encourage your teen to turn to you in good times and bad. Stay steady even if your teen is shaky. You can provide a place for solace, encouragement, safety and admiration.

The social worker will see all students (9th through 12th) in all neighborhoods.


STUDENTS IN TRANSITION EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (STEP)
STEP is a free program offered by Traverse City Area Public School that provides supportive education-related services to all students, Pre-K through Grade 12, who do not have permanent housing. The program is funded by a grant through the Michigan Department of Education under the Stewart B. McKinney Act. This federal law requires that school districts remove barriers to the enrollment, attendance, and success of children and youth in school. Please contact the STEP Coordinator at 933-8991 or WSH STEP Specialist Lauran Gentry at 933-7544 for assistance in determining your child’s eligibility for STEP services. Click here to learn more.

WEST SENIOR HIGH NURSING OFFICE
Tina Soyring and Liisa Szarapski are the nurses at West Senior High. They are available to help promote and protect the health of students by providing health services, health education and a healthy environment. Please do not hesitate to use the nurses as a health resource for your family. They are here on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday mornings and can be reached at 933-7524. Click here for more health information.

SCHOLARSHIP/FINANCIAL AID SEARCH DATABASES
Scholarship opportunities during the school year are listed on our daily announcements, posted here on our website at or you can visit the Counseling Center for additional information.

• www.absolutelyscholarships.com
  A free database with over 200,000 scholarships

• www.fastweb.com
  A free database of more than 180,000 scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans. New scholarships are frequently added to the database.

• www.freschinfo.com
  A free, large database of scholarships (1,730+) as well as a weekly newsletter with information about various scholarships, tips on applying, and the latest change to the website.

• www.fafsa.ed.gov

• www.mappingyourfuture.org

• www.finaid.org

• www.collegeboard.com

• www.studentaid.ed.gov
  has help lines available to students and families

• www.uscollegesearch.org
  has free online resources for college-bound students.

HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE:

Career Exploration:

• www.careercruising.com
• www.bls.gov/oco
• www.onetcenter.org
• www.acinet.org
• www.careervoyages.gov

College Resources:

• www.princetonreview.com
• www.petersons.com
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.campustours.com
• www.collegeview.com
• www.uscollegesearch.org

Vocational Schools:

• www.rwm.org
• www.khake.com
• www.vocational-schools.info
• www.collegebound.net

Scholarship/Financial Aid Information:

• www.ed.gov
• www.fafsa.ed.gov
• www.fastweb.com
• www.finaid.org
• www.careersandcolleges.com
• www.mappingyourfuture.org
• www.students.gov

Test Preparation:

• www.act.org
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.testtakingtips.com

Military Info:

• www.navy.com
• www.nationalguard.com
• www.usmc.mil
• www.airforce.com
• www.army.mil
• www.military.com
• www.uscg.mil

College Preparation:

• https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
• www.collegeboard.com
• www.ed.gov
• www.petersons.com
• www.usnews.com/
• https://edweb.educ.msu.edu/collegeinsider