Freshman Year

Tips for High School Freshmen

The word “transition” is defined as, “passage from one form, state, style, or another.” The transition from middle school to high school marks significant changes in the way students and their families view education. Here are some things to keep in mind when you look at the next four years of high school. We want to help you have a positive and productive transition into high school.

1) Select challenging courses during all four years of high school

All student must earn 28 credits to graduate
All students must pass:

Four years of English
Four years of Mathematics
Three years of Science
Three Years of Social Studies
Two years of Foreign Language
Physical Education and Health

2) Earn strong grades in each of your courses

3) Understand your high school records

High school transrcipt:
A listing of student’s final grades and credits earned in each course taken for the time the student attends High School.

Extra-curricular activities:
A listing of all in-school activities (sports teams and clubs) in which a student participates while he/she attends high school.

4) Create a “standardized testing portfolio”

Most students will take a number of standardized tests in preparation for the college admissions process. Building a testing portfolio will keep you organized and allow easy access to this important information.

5) Be aware of the college admissions testing schedule

SOPHOMORE YEAR

PSAT

JUNIOR YEAR

PSAT
SAT I
SAT II
ACT

SENIOR YEAR

SAT I
SAT II
ACT

6) Consider other important aspects of your student profile

Outside commitments (keep a notebook of all school activities, awards and outside commitments)

Volunteer work

Part-time employment

Portfolio of student work in English and Math from grade 9 forward. Keep track of important pappers and tests.

Attendance

7) Form strong student/teacher relationships

8) Set Personal goals

Develop study skills, disciplined habits
Learn effective time-management and organizational skills
Create a balance between studies, activities, fun and rest
Enjoy high school!