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Paths to Success

How to Jumpstart Your Child's Future

You want to help your child be ready and excited for high school and beyond. But getting there can be overwhelming, especially given all the changes this school year. The good news is, success is not a destination—it’s a journey with multiple paths! Whether that path leads to a four-year college or a technical program, the same is true for all—a strong education is the foundation to a fulfilling career.

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Did you Know?

According to research, being on track in 9th grade is the greatest predictor of high school graduation.

Use the Readiness Check to see if your middle schooler has the math and reading skills needed for success in 9th grade. As part of the results, you get videos and activities to support learning at home.

Get the Readiness Check here. »

Action steps to help your child be ready for high school and beyond.

The good news is, success is not a destination—it’s a journey with multiple paths! Whether that path leads to a four-year college or a technical program, the same is true for all—a strong education is the foundation to a fulfilling career.

KNOW THE MILESTONES

Check in and communicate regularly (even virtually) with your teen’s teachers and counselors to work on a plan for high school graduation. Know application deadlines and take relevant tests. This can keep your child motivated and improve grades.

NURTURE LIFE SKILLS

Now more than ever, lean into how your teen is feeling about virtual or hybrid school changes and high school overall. Get support to help them strengthen life skills-- organization, communication, and coping skills, like how to deal with stress and manage emotions. These skills will help during key moments such as college and career decision points and challenges along the way.

REFLECT ON INTERESTS

Talk to your teen about their strengths, passions, as well as the kinds of jobs they can see themselves doing in the future. Ask them questions like “What makes you happy?” “Is there a career you want to learn more about?” Help them see the connection between the choices they are making now and their future.

PLAN AHEAD

College, career and technical education costs are a lot but knowing what to expect can reduce stress. Explore financial aid options and how FAFSA works. Research smaller colleges that can offer a great education and more scholarship opportunities. Learn about the process for transferring schools. Over one third of students change colleges and discover that some class credits won’t transfer (lost time and money)!

CONSIDER CLASS CHOICES

Find a balance of high school classes based on interest and level. Maybe your child is ready for advanced placement (AP) classes or is interested in career and technical education (CTE) courses--both can equal college credit which saves time and money!