This newsletter is a cooperative effort of the high school counseling departments of the Great Falls Public Schools and the community volunteer group Advocates for College Awareness. It is published twice a year and highlights college and career information, which we hope will make preparation for the future easier and more enjoyable.

COLLEGE BOUND WORKSHOP FOR JUNIORS

On Monday, April 6, 2009 at 6:45 p.m., the Advocates for College Awareness, in cooperation with the Great Falls Public Schools, will sponsor a free college bound workshop for high school juniors and their parents. It will be held in Heritage Hall at the MSU College of Technology – Great Falls. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m.

Highlights of the evening will be suggestions for application preparation, financial aid, college interviews, what to look for in selecting a college, what colleges are looking for in selecting students, college entrance tests, and advanced placement. Call 268-6008 for further information and registration.

COUNSELORS’ CORNER

This column in the Visions Newsletter is designed to help parents stay current with the classroom and other activities that the counselors in the high school have scheduled for all students to help them in their planning for high school and beyond. If parents are ever in need of more information about any of the Counseling Department activities call 268-6159 at CMR or 268-6330 at GFH for more information.

C. M. RUSSELL HIGH SCHOOL

Interest Inventory Completed -- Before Christmas vacation the Counselors gave all freshmen the Career Decision Making Inventory designed to help them look at their interests and relate that to potential careers. After Christmas the freshmen then began

LOOK INSIDE FOR: Semester Calendar

Graduation parties

Scholarship Information

Advanced Placement

And MUCH MORE!

looking at Career Pathways. Pathways are very broad occupational interest areas. By picking a tentative Career Pathway, students began the process of developing an academic plan that fits with their career and educational goals. The student's pathways folder, called Trails to the Future, is on file and students will continue to work with this plan throughout high school. Parents should have received a post card with information concerning their child’s career pathway choice.

Junior Individual Planning Conference – Counselor’s will begin seeing all juniors during 3rd quarter for their individual planning conference. The student and his/her counselor will evaluate the student’s credits, discuss career and educational goals, research career and educational information, and make plans for the senior year schedule. Juniors who do not want to wait for their counselor to call them down, are more than welcome to stop by the Counseling Office and make an appointment to see their counselor for their Individual Planning Conference!!

Career Guidance Computer Training -- The Montana Career Information System (MCIS) and Bridges.Com are our computer-based information and reference sources that can help students explore career and educational opportunities. In early April the counselors will be training all sophomores on the use of MCIS and Bridges. This will become a valuable tool as students begin to look more closely at career and educational opportunities.

Scheduling for Next Year -- All students and parents can look for the advisors to meet with their students in mid-February to begin the process of scheduling for next year. Students will be scheduling for the entire year, not just first semester. Counselors will be visiting the middle schools on February 10^th to begin the conversation about scheduling for high school. A parent night for middle school parents is scheduled for February 3^rd at CMR. All student requests for courses for 2009-2010 will be completed by March 4.

College Applications, Scholarships, and Letters of Recommendation -- This is a busy time of year for seniors, their parents and counselors as applications are completed for scholarships and colleges. This is a reminder to seniors to keep checking the Scholarship Scoop. Stay aware of your deadlines and give your counselor and your teachers’ adequate time to write that great letter of recommendation!!

Dual Credit Courses – There are opportunities for your child to earn both high school and college credits for certain courses at CMR. Those credits are earned through MSUGF-COT or UGF, depending on the course. The cost for the courses taken by high school students is reduced and it is a great way to get a jump start on college credits. See your child’s counselor for more information.

Who is My Child’s Counselor?

Counselors are assigned alphabetically by your child’s last name. Feel free to call your child’s counselor with any questions you may have. Below you will find counselor assignments and the counselor’s direct phone line and voice mailbox.

A-CL Earlene Ostberg 268-6160

CO-G Julie Graham 268-6161

H-LA Jacie Schoenen 268-6110

LE-OB Brenda Lowry 268-6162

OC-SP Sparky Kottke 268-6112

SR-Z Patti Ashmore 268-6111

GREAT FALLS HIGH SCHOOL

Interest Inventories and Assessments - In October, all juniors were given the opportunity to take a vocational aptitude battery which measures developed abilities and predicts what students can accomplish. It also predicts how successful one might be with further education or training. All juniors were also given the opportunity to participate in a job shadow program-last year over 250 juniors took advantage of this unique opportunity. Parents, check with your son or daughter to determine if the classes being taken at GFHS are helping to meet goals for after high school.

Early Career and Academic Planning-- In December, the counselors introduced all freshmen to the Trails to the Future Pamphlet and the Career Decision-Making Inventory (CDM). This instrument is designed to help students clarify their interests, values, and abilities, allowing them to make successful choices. The counselors then used these concepts to select an occupational interest area and students selected a career path to explore. At the end of the counselors’ visits to the classroom, all ninth grade students participated in a Career Scavenger Hunt in the Library where they researched the cost of living, college requirements specific to their career path, job listings in newspapers from across the country, and completed a job application. This career information will be used in February when counselors revisit freshman classes to build a 4-year academic plan for each student. Parents, discuss these career pamphlets which were sent home with your son or daughter. See if selected course work relates to career and personal goals. Help your son or daughter select volunteer activities and classes which will coordinate with career interest areas.

Dual Credit Courses – Students will have an opportunity to earn dual credit in a newly created science class next year (2009-10) along with the already established dual credit offerings that have been in place for the past two years. Biology 5-6, a physiology and anatomy class, is the new course that will provide both high school and college credit from MSU-GF. Other dual credit courses from MSU-GF that are taught at GFHS include Honors Statistics and AP Government. Two additional courses that are offered only at the MSU-GF campus are auto body repair and refinishing and EMT Basic. The dual credit agreement between the GFPS and MSU-GF provides a financial break for students, as the cost for the tuition is divided between the student and the college with the district often picking up the cost for additional expenses, such as books or supplies needed.

Students at GFHS also have the option of taking two dual credit courses from MT Tech in Butte, Advanced Chemistry and Math Physics, with a financial arrangement that is similar in nature to the district’s agreement with MSU-GF. In all cases, students have the option of enrolling in the class for high school credit only (no cost) or for dual credit. Next year the AP government class is in line to be offered as a dual credit course with the University of Great Falls. The fact that the class is also offered as an AP class gives students one more option: forego the dual credit and instead take the AP test in the spring.

The community task force for Career Pathways is currently working on providing additional dual credit options for students in three areas: Industrial Technology, Business and Healthcare. The goal is for students from our district to graduate from high school with a head start in the career pathway they have chosen, whether it is one that provides credits towards a college degree or one that provides certifications in a technical area.

Junior Individual Planning Conference - Starting the middle of March 2009, counselors will begin individual conferences with juniors. The goal is to assist them with academic, career, and post-secondary planning along with evaluation of credits. Discussing career and educational goals will help in course selection for the important senior year. Each junior will be given a folder containing valuable information to help students plan for their life after Great Falls High School. Parents, watch for the post card from your son’s or daughter’s counselor letting you know the conference has been completed, and the folder given out. Please help your child with his or her post-secondary plan by reviewing the folder’s contents.

Scheduling for year 2009-2010 - Counselors will begin preparing students for the process of scheduling classes for next year. In the second week of February, counselors will be in the classrooms providing information to all students on course selections and building a schedule which meets requirements and, more important, prepares them for the future. In February, all students will actually select classes for the 2009-10 school year. To begin the scheduling process for next year’s freshman year, counselors will be at the Middle Schools the first week in February.

MCIS and bridges.com Training – In the second week of April, all sophomores will receive training from the counseling staff in two career programs available on the Internet--MCIS (The Montana Career Information System) and bridges.com--to help explore careers and educational opportunities. This is a great opportunity to learn how to access information from the computer. Students will explore not only a career of interest to them, but also they will access post-secondary training available to them specific to their career choice. Both programs can also be accessed on the Internet at home.

A reminder to seniors - This is a busy time of year for completing college applications and scholarship forms. The GFHS Scholarship News, which is distributed in senior English classes monthly, lists available scholarships and their deadlines and qualifications. Seniors can pick up the specific applications for each scholarship in the Counseling Center.

Counselor Student Assignment:

A - CR Maxine Farrell 268-6336

CS - GE Steve Bennetts 268-6332

(Scholarships-Financial Aid)

GF - KI Carie Magers 268-6334

KJ - NO Kathy Van Tighem 268-6333

NP-SM Rachel Waterfield 268-6338

SN - Z Jim Turner 268-6335

MAY IS ADVANCED PLACEMENT MONTH!

Time to plan ahead!

Believe it or not, now is the time for AP students to begin thinking about Advancement Placement Exams. You’ll need to decide how many tests you want to take, clear time on your schedules and complete the AP registration forms. Mrs. Ostberg, CMR Counselor, and Mr. Turner, GFH Counselor, will be meeting with you sometime in late February or early March to help you with this process. In the meantime, here is some information about AP tests that you’ll need to know.

AP EXAM REGISTRATION FORM – 2009

Please check the exams you intend to take in the

Advanced Placement program, May 4-8, 11-15

Week 1	√	Morning – 8 a.m.	√	Afternoon-12 p.m.
Monday, May 4		Gov’t & Politics: United States		Gov’t & * Politics: Comparative* French Language*
Tues., May 5		Computer Science A* Computer Science AB* Spanish Language*		Statistics
Weds., May 6		Calculus AB* Calculus BC*		Chinese Lang & Culture
Thurs. May 7		English Literature* German Language*		Japanese Lang & Culture* French Literature*
Friday, May 8		United States History		European History Studio Art (portfolios due)
Week 2	√	Morning-8 a.m.	√	Afternoon-12 p.m.
Monday, May 11		Biology* Music Theory*		Physics B* Physics C*: Mechanics
			√	Afternoon-2 p.m.
Monday, May 11				Physics C Electricity & Magnetism**
			√	Afternoon-12 p.m.
Tues., May 12		Environmental Science* Chemistry*		Psychology
Weds. May 13		Italian Lang & Culture* English Language*		Art History
Thurs. May 14		Macroeconomics* World History*		Microeconomics
Friday, May 15		Human Geography* Spanish Literature*		Latin Literature* Latin: Vergil*

* Students wishing to take exams that are scheduled for the same time slot should ask their Coordinator to contact AP Services.

** This exam must begin between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

NOTEWORTHY FACTS

· The registration deadline is Monday, March 2, 2009. Registration forms are available from Mrs. Ostberg or Mr. Turner.

· Each test is administered one time only on the dates listed.

· You can take an AP exam even if you are not taking the AP class.

· Tests begin promptly at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Most of the exams are three hours long.

· The fee for each exam is $86.00. Students who are registered for an AP class are required to take the respective AP exam and those fees were collected at the beginning of the school year. However, if a student isn’t taking an AP class but still wishes to take an AP exam, he/she will make a check payable to the Great Falls Public Schools in the amount of $86.00 before the registration deadline of March 2, 2009. An $18.00 fee may be assessed for those students who are taking an AP class and who do not take the exam.

· Fee reductions are available to qualified students. Students should check with Mrs. Ostberg at CMR or Mr. Turner at GFH for further details.

· Various testing accommodations are available to students with disabilities. Contact Mrs. Ostberg or Mr. Turner if you need this service.

TEST PREPARATION

· You can go online at www.collegeboard.org/ap to check out exam formats, sample questions and student responses plus other up-to-date AP information.

· On test day, you will need to bring several sharpened #2 pencils, a black or dark-blue ball-point pen, your secondary school code number, your social security number, a watch for pacing yourself and, for Calculus test-takers, a calculator; check with the instructor first as only certain ones can be used.

A WORD FOR THE WISE: When it comes to taking AP Exams, the question shouldn’t be “Should I take an AP Exam?” but rather “How many AP exams should I take?” It’s an investment that can earn you both time and money!

EXCEL Mentors

“To the world you may be one person, but to one person, you may be the world.”

Studies show that young people who have an adult mentor in their lives stay in school, aspire to and achieve better grades, and go on to higher education. All Great Falls high schools have a program to provide mentors for students. The mentors are community volunteers who give one hour of time each week throughout the school year to help a high school student achieve success. More than 75 students have had meaningful contact with a caring adult since the program began three years ago.

Following a background check and training, mentors meet with their matched student for one hour during the school day to:

Help the student establish short-term goals
Provide support
Encourage attendance
Serve as a role model
Listen
Help the student with problem solving and organizational skills
Tutor
Expose the student to work opportunities and career possibilities
Encourage post high school education

If you would like to be a mentor or would like more information, please contact the program coordinator, Liz Lee, at 268-6003 or by e-mail at liz_lee@gfps.k12.mt.us. Just one hour a week can make all the difference for a student on the brink of success.

BRIDGES.COM… CAREER INFORMATION WEBSITE YOU CAN ACCESS FROM HOME!

Our school district has subscribed to a great web site that provides up-to-date career information for students and parents. “Bridges” has information about all kinds of careers that are often not available in traditional career guidance programs. Interested in music video production? Forensic psychology? Documentary film production? The high school counselors and students are enjoying this user-friendly, graphic-rich web site. “Bridges” is available at any computer that has internet access either from home or on any computer at school. Here’s how:

1. Log on to http://usa.bridges.com

2. Enter user name:

0032915(CMR)

0032913 (GFHS)

3. Enter password: russell (CMR)

greatfalls (GFHS)

JUNIOR JOB SHADOWS

All Juniors have an opportunity to do a job shadow of someone working in the community. This came about as part of the counseling curriculum and this is the third year of its existence. Pat Loucks, our district job shadow coordinator, along with the counselors, is the person who makes it all happen for students. The counselors at the high schools get information from the students as to what job they would like to shadow, then Pat gets to work contacting community members who are willing to have a student shadow them. We are grateful to all community members who have been so generous with their time and talents, and to Pat for all her hard work. If your junior or senior student has not done a shadow and would like to do one, please contact the counselors at your school.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY REQUIREMENTS

At CMR juniors who have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.33 after five semesters are eligible to become candidates for National Honor Society. Seniors are again eligible after the seventh semester with a cumulative GPA of 3.33. CMR will hold its Honor Society Induction on the evening of May 14, 2009.

At Great Falls High School students are not eligible to become candidates for National Honor Society until they are seniors and a cumulative grade point average of 3.3 through six semesters. Great Falls High School will hold their induction in the fall.

Membership is, however, also based upon citizenship, scholarship, character, leadership and service as evaluated by the faculty council and determined by regulations established by the national organization.

HUGH O’BRIEN

The Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership (HOBY) award winner for Great Falls High School this year is William Strauss, son of Jim and Dee Strauss. The winner for CMR this year is Timothy Seery, son of Suzan and Michael Seery. These students will attend the state seminar in Missoula this spring, representing Great Falls High School and CM Russell High school. Karch Lockerby, son of Bryan Lockerby, was chosen as the alternative at GFHS, and Alison Sullivan, daughter of Shirley and Gary Sullivan, is alternate at CMR. Two state winners will be chosen to attend the international leadership seminar in Washington D.C. in the summer.

Hugh O’Brien first organized HOBY seminars in 1958 after he returned from a trip to Africa. His inspiration came from Dr. Albert Schweitzer and the work he was doing in Africa. At the state seminar, students will learn to think critically, enhance their leadership skills, learn more about “America’s Incentive System,” and discover that they are not alone in their desire to lead and to make their schools and communities better.

HEISEY AWARDS

The Trustees of the Heisey Foundation have established a series of awards which will be given at area high schools this spring. The Heisey is a cash award of $150. The desire of the Foundation was to put the money back into the communities where it was originally earned.

Heisey awards are special in that they are the only award presented to students based primarily on improvement. All students nominated have been judged on their teachers' observations of improvement in citizenship, scholarship, and effort for this year.

At GFHS, students are nominated by their teachers; one Heisey is offered for every 25 students from the total school population. CMR students who feel they meet the criteria should see an Associate Principal or a counselor for the appropriate rating cards in early April

The Heisey Award Assembly at CMR is scheduled for May 11, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. in the CMR Auditorium.

The Heisey Award Assembly at GFHS is scheduled for April 20, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium.

TEENSCREEN PROGRAM ADDRESSES DEPRESSION AND OTHER MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

For many teens, undiagnosed mental health issues are a serious barrier to well-being and success. Approximately 750,000 teens in the United States suffer from depression – some so seriously it leads to suicide, the second leading cause of teenage death.

The Great Falls Public Schools, in cooperation with the City County Health Department and the Benefis Foundation, will again be participating in the Columbia University TeenScreen Program. TeenScreen provides the opportunity for students to participate in a mental health check-up and receive follow-up information in regard to a variety of mental health issues, including depression or low mood, anxiety or worry, and substance abuse.

Parents of freshmen should have received a letter in mid-January which explains the TeenScreen Program and will have the opportunity to have their child complete the brief computerized assessment. Screenings will begin in mid-February. Parents whose children are not freshmen, but who would like their student to participate in the TeenScreen Program can call their child’s counselor or Mikie Messman, CARE Program Coordinator at 268-6771.

ACADEMIC LETTER APPLICATIONS

CMR and GFHS students who wish to apply for an Academic Letter may pick up the applications in the Advisement and Counseling Center. Students are awarded academic letters based on a system that awards points for GPA earned, Honors and AP classes taken, and high involvement in extra and co-curricular activities. Although students can usually only accumulate enough points for the academic letter in their junior and senior years, all underclass students are encouraged to pick up an application and begin keeping track of their points. Applications were made available to students after grades were posted for the first semester.

At GFHS, these applications must be filed by the end of February. A ceremony to recognize the recipients is scheduled for March 24, 2009, at 3:15 p.m. in the Old Gym. Parents will receive a written invitation in the mail and are encouraged to attend this short but rewarding program honoring students for their academic prowess.

CMR students will be given their academic letters on an individual basis. For more information please see your counselor or refer to your student handbook.

HONOR ROLL ASSEMBLY

C.M. Russell High School students who earned a 3.2 GPA or higher for second semester last year or first semester this year will be honored at the annual Honor Roll Assembly on Thursday morning, February 12, 2009. Parents and students should look for invitations in the mail in early February.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT DINNER

Great Falls High School students who earned a 3.20 CUMULATIVE GPA will be honored at the Seventeenth Annual Academic Dinner. The program will be Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. in the Old Gym. Along with being served a dinner of pizza, pop and cake, students will be entertained with a film starring GFH faculty members. This year’s program will continue to include a raffle for prizes donated by staff members and academic departments. Over 500 GFH students will be invited to attend and to celebrate their academic achievement.

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT AND TESTING

All sophomores will be taking the Montana Criterion Reference Test (CRT) to determine whether or not schools are making adequate yearly progress (AYP) under the provision of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. This test will be given in March and will test the areas of math, science, and English. CMR will be testing at Skyline school on March 5, 9, and 10. GFHS will be testing at GFHS

28^TH ANNUAL MCTM MATH CONTEST

Each year the Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics sponsors a math contest. Approximately 800 area students participate in the Great Falls Regional Contest which will be held March 21, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. The contest is open to all students’ grades 7-12. Students take three 30 minute individual tests. Senior students can compete for a $200 regional scholarship and a $500 state scholarship if they take the following three tests: Senior Test, Finite Test, and Scholarship Test. Two regional scholarships are awarded to the top male and top female. Each of these winners will have a chance to win an additional $500 in state scholarship money. To enter the contest, speak with your math teacher.

ACADEMIC BOWL

The 19^th annual Electric City Academic Bowl will be held on March 31, 2009 at GFHS. The Consolation Round will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Championship Round beginning at 7 p.m.

The Electric City Academic Bowl had its origins in 1991 when Mr. Donald Becklin, a member of the Great Falls High School Class of 1932, purchased the bronze “Kid Russell and Monty”, a miniature of the statue that stands in Davidson Plaza on Central Avenue. Mr. Becklin donated the bronze to the Great Falls Public Schools with the stipulation that the bronze become a perpetual traveling trophy for an academic bowl event.

Students who have a head for trivia, love to work math problems under pressure, and have a strong background in history, science, current events and the arts can contact B.J. McCracken at GFHS or Patti Ashmore at CMR for information about practice times.

TECH PREP UNDERGOING CHANGES

Tech Prep has been a program providing college credit for certain high school classes, giving students advanced placement in programs at the two year colleges around the state. Students were eligible for Tech Prep college credits if they earned a “B” or better in their high school Tech Prep class(es) and they enrolled at a Tech Prep partner college within 2 years of their graduation. C.M. Russell, Great Falls High, and Paris Gibson Alternative High Schools all participated as members of the Central Montana Tech Prep Consortium with MSU-Great Falls College of Technology, U of M-Helena College of Technology, and MSU-Northern as their college partners. While the Consortium is no longer active, the articulation agreements that were in place two years ago are still being honored at these colleges. Visit the Consortium Web Site to see the agreements still in place for your high school: http://techprep.msugf.edu/ No new articulations or updates to the articulations have been done now for two years.

Tech Prep is being revamped into a statewide program rather than centered in regional consortia. Big Sky Pathways is the name you will hear associated with the new program. Right now representatives from the Office of Public Instruction, the Commissioner of Higher Education, colleges, high schools, and business people are working hard to make the Pathways a program that will serve high school students better. More news about Big Sky Pathways should be coming out this year.

Moving Forward with MSU-Great Falls College of Technology

If you’re reading this, you’re thinking about college and what’s next. Good for you! The options are endless and your future is bright. Let me take a moment to tell you about the options in your own backyard . . MSU-Great Falls College of Technology.

We strive to offer degrees that make you “workforce ready” in three years or less. Our degrees are offered based on workforce demand so that our graduates can be putting their skills to use as soon as they walk across the graduation stage. The key to being ready for the job site is a combination of academics and hands on experiences.

Degrees Offered

You may be asking yourself, “What types of academic degrees does MSU-Great Falls offer.” We offer several types of degrees which I will take a moment to help you understand.

Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.)
The Certificate of Applied Science recognizes a short program of study designed to prepare the student for entry-level employment in a specific technical field. A few examples of our certificate programs are Dental Assisting, Accounting Assistant and Welding Technology.

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded in specific technical career fields. This degree is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into employment but may be fully or partially transferable to programs at selected four-year institutions. A few examples of this type of degree are Business Management and Entrepreneurship, Surgical Technology and Interior Design.

Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.)
An Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree is a general transfer degree indicating that the student has completed a course of study equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. This degree does not officially include a major or minor course of study.

What’s New

There is always something new and exciting waiting for you at MSU-Great Falls. Recently, we’ve added a degree for those interested in becoming a Graphic Designer. As a Graphic Designer, your job is to create graphics to meet a client’s specific commercial or promotional needs such as logos, brochures, newsletters, packaging, displays or other print, sign and web media. This is a two year Associate of Applied Science degree and it starts, officially, Fall 2009. Call today for more information or to apply. 406-771-5132

Another exciting learning opportunity on the horizon is the Wind Technician Training Program. The program is still in the planning stages. The demand is out there so now we want to develop an opportunity for students to train to pursue a career in wind energy. The added bonus of this future program is hands-on experience students will get. The campus has received funding to build a wind turbine. This turbine will power our new trades building and look similar to the wind turbine erected for the Cascade County roads and maintenance shop. Stay tuned for more details as this program develops.

Study Now, Succeed Later

Are you considering a career in health care? Now is the time for you to focus on Math and Science. Our health care students need to have strong math and science skills to prepare them for their desired programs. For example, if you are thinking about pursing employment in Dental Hygiene, you’ll need to take Anatomy and Physiology courses, Algebra courses, Chemistry courses and much more. Math and English skills are critical regardless of what field you pursue. A degree in business or interior design is not without a strong need for good writing and mathematics skills.

Schedule Your Campus Visit Today

Attending college is a big decision that shouldn’t be made without experiencing the campus first. We invite students and their families to schedule a campus tour right away. We can make your visit valuable by scheduling time to tour the buildings, visit with financial aid and discuss the application process.

Here’s how to schedule a visit. You can call 406-771-5132 or 406-771-4414 or visit the following link www.msugf.edu/admissions_records/VisitMSUGF.html. We can’t wait to meet you.

2007-2008 ENRICHMENT AND

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Students who are looking for ways to enrich their high school experience, “beef up” their resumes, and broaden their experiences to help them make good educational and career goals, should consider some of the following programs. Students should pay attention to announcements and consult with their counselor if they are interested in summer and other enrichment programs. In most cases applications and further information are available from your high school counselor.

National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine, Nursing, Leadership, and Law

A 6-10 day program at one of many universities, or in Wash. D.C. Tuition varies. It is open to this year’s sophomores and juniors. There are different requirements for each forum. Financial aide may be available. Medicine requires a 3.3 GPA. Contact Mrs. Ostberg for more information or call 1-888-866-2283.

Foreign Exchange Programs

YFU

Contact www.yfu-usa.org or 1 (800) - TEENAGE.

EF Educational Tours

Contact Mrs. Ostberg or call 1-800-637-8222.

Interlochen Foreign Exchange

Contact 800-681-5912.

AFS Intercultural Programs-1-800-AFS-INFO

Intervention Programs

Outward Bound - Year-round challenging wilderness program for teens that are struggling with anger, defiance, low motivation, truancy, poor school performance, risky behaviors. For kids who are not thriving in school. www.outwardbound.com.

Teen Challenge - For students who are having difficulty at school and home. Contact your counselor or call (805) 648-3295 or email at vtctc@earthlink.net

Youth Challenge- For students who are not finding success in traditional schooling. Contact your counselor or call 1 (800) FOR-MYCP

Job Corps-Career training for teens. Teens may finish their high school diploma or get their G.E.D. and train for a career. Contact your counselor for more information or call 727-5395.

College Days

MSU Days for prospective students- January 30, 2009 or April 3, 2009. Students may stay on campus if there is room. The cost is $15.00. You can get an application online at

www.montana.edu/admissions.msufriday

U of M Days for prospective students - Apply on line at www.umt.edu, go to admissions and sign up. There is no fee.

College Goal Sunday

College Goal Sunday is for all families who want assistance in completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form. Financial aid officers and other qualified professionals volunteer their time to ensure students receive assistance in understanding and completing the paperwork necessary to receive financial aid. College Goal Sunday is open to everyone, including students from all income levels and college going traditions, and traditional and nontraditional students. The program is open to all higher education-bound students and their families. It is an excellent opportunity to network and have many of your financial aid questions answered. This information and more can be found at www.collegegoalmt.org/CollegeGoalMT

Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. College Goal Sunday is February 22, 2009 and will be held at MSU - Great Falls COT. The program will start at 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. in Heritage Hall. If you need additional information please contact the Office of Financial Aid at (406) 771-4334.

SECOND SEMESTER CALENDAR

JANUARY

24 SAT Test

26 First day of new semester

FEBRUARY

2 Middle School Parent Night - GFH

3 Middle School Parent Night - CMR

3-5 Student CARE Workshop

7 ACT Test

12 Honor Roll Assembly - CMR

16 Presidents’ Day - no school

19 Parent Advisory conference night-CMR

27 Mid-Term

MARCH

2 AP Registration deadline

4 Scheduling 09-10 Academic Year – CMR

5,9,10 CRT Testing-Grades 10-CMR

21 Junior Prom - GFH

21 MCTM Math Contest

24 Academic Letter Ceremony – GFH

26 Academic Dinner - GFH

27 End of 3^rd Quarter

28 Prom - CMR

APRIL

4 ACT

6-8 MCIS for all sophomores – GFHS

8 Parent Conferences - CMR

9-14 Spring Break

20 Heisey Awards Ceremony - GFH

MAY

2 SAT

4-15 Advanced Placement (AP) Testing

4 Senior Awards Assembly-GFH

5 Fine Arts Assembly-CMR

8 Mid-term

11 All School Awards Assembly-CMR

11 Heisey Awards Assembly – CMR

11, 12 Senior Assembly

14 Honor Society Induction - CMR

25 Memorial Day

26 Senior Final Tests

27 Baccalaureate – CMR & GFH

27 Last Day for Seniors – CMR & GFH

28 Senior BBQ – GFH

28 Graduation Rehersal 8am - GFH

29 Grad. Practice & Senior Luncheon-CMR

31 Graduation - GFH

JUNE

1 Graduation - CMR

2-4 Semester Test – underclassmen

5 Last Day of School and Early Out

13 Last ACT test for the year

PROJECT GRADUATION

Plans are underway for the 2009 graduation parties. These are all night parties following graduation, put on by the parents of the graduating seniors.

GFHS’s graduation party is Sunday, May 31, 2009. Call Kathy Reilly at 899-1804 to assist with GFHS’s graduation party.

CMR’s graduation party is on Monday, June 1, 2009. Call Becky Agamenoni at 453-0013 to assist with the CMR’s graduation party.

We need the support of the parents and the community to make these parties a success. Thank you for your willingness to help.

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

FINANCIAL AID

What is the FAFSA: FAFSA + Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s the form the federal government uses to determine your eligibility for aid, which can include: scholarships, grants, work-study and loans.

Where You Can Get It:

· Complete the FAFSA on the Web at www.fafsa.ed.gov

· At your high School or local library

· Call 800-4-FED-AID (800-433-3243)

The Process:

FAFSA →EFC →School Award

Filling out the FAFSA will determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), or the amount of money your family can be expected to contribute to your college costs each year.

Your school will then try to meet your needs through a financial aid award made up of grants, student employment and loans, which can come from federal, state, school and private sources.

When To Fill It Out:

· Complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1 of each year. The FAFSA is available on January 1. Since funds are limited at many schools, early submission of the FAFSA maximizes your chances of receiving aid. Remember to keep copies of all submitted documents.

· Submit the FAFSA even if you don’t think you qualify for aid. Sometimes being rejected for federal aid is a prerequisite for receiving private awards.

FastTip: Review all of your data on the FAFSA.

It is important to send in a form that is accurate

and reflects your current situation.

Common FAFSA Errors: Dos and Don’ts

· Do remember to file on time. Students who file as soon as possible after January 1 many times are given priority if funds are scarce.

· Do take the time to read the instructions and answer questions carefully.

· Do sign the application. If you are filing as a dependent student, make sure your parents sign too.

· Do use the 1040 Federal tax return (2007 version) for reporting income and taxes paid, not the W-2. If this is not available, estimate your income for 2007 using paycheck stubs and asset information.

· Do include yourself in your parents’ household size.

· Don’t leave a field blank. Use a zero if the question does not apply to you.

· Don’t forget to report ALL required sources of untaxed income: e.g., Social Security or child support.

If you have any questions, contact your high school counselor and/or call

800-4-FED-AID.

What’s Next?

Review your Student Aid Report (SAR) carefully.

The SAR is proof that your FAFSA was received.

When should I receive it?

- 4-6 weeks after you submit a paper FAFSA

- 1-2 weeks if filed electronically

- Errors? Follow the directions from your aid

administrator.

What if I don’t receive it?

Call the federal processor at 800-433-3243 if you do not receive your paper SAR in 4-6 weeks. Provide your name, Social Security number and date of birth.

What does this asterisk (*) mean?

If an asterisk appears next to your EFC, your SAR has been selected for verification (about 1 in 3 SARs are selected). Your college has to verify your financial status. If asked, submit the information requested to your prospective college’s financial aid office ASAP, or your aid may be delayed.

IT’S THE SCHOLARSHIP SEASON

Seniors are reminded that this is the time of year when the vast majority of scholarships become available and deadlines are approaching rapidly. Seniors should remember these things:

1. Be sure to write to the college you plan to attend and obtain their application for freshman scholarships and other scholarship forms applicable to that college.

2. Continue to check the Scholarship Scoop posted in your senior English class, on the Scholarship Bulletin Board, and on the CMR or GFHS Website for scholarships that fit your talents.

3. Stay on top of deadlines.

4. Give your teachers and counselors plenty of time (a week is a good rule of thumb) to write that great recommendation!

5. See Mrs. Ashmore (CMR) and Mr. Bennetts (GFH) for applications and other information.

To access the Scholarship Scoop on the CMR and GFHS website (Skyline students are welcome to do this), complete the following steps:

1. Go to the Great Falls Public Schools Website at www.gfps.k12.mt.us

2. Click on “District Schools”

3. Go to the High School’s view menu and pull down to CM Russell or GF High School

At the school website, you will find a scholarship link. Click on that link to find the monthly scholarship scoop newsletter.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: VALUABLE EXPERIENCE:

How are your activities related to college and financial aid?

Scholarships: Sponsors often ask for a list of volunteer and extracurricular activities. Gained skills and accomplishments can set you apart from other scholarship applicants.

Colleges: Set yourself apart from other applicants by showing an admissions office more than a high GPA or test score.

What can you do now to enhance the activities you’re already involved in?

· Take on different roles within the organization; identify your strengths and preferences.

· Keep hard copies of materials from events or projects you help to organize.

· Maintain a personal record of tasks, responsibilities and achievements.

· Be a leader/active participant in a few organizations rather than simply showing up to many. Use those organizations as an opportunity to develop leadership skills.

SCHOLARSHIP SCAMS

Not all scholarship matching services and scholarship providers are out to help students. How can you tell a legitimate program from a scam?

What’s Legit and What’s Not? – Ask yourself these questions when trying to decide.

A legitimate scholarship sponsor or service:

· Sends information about awards when you request it.

· Makes contact information available upon request.

· Does not guarantee you will win an award.

· Knows that financial aid information is free and readily available in financial aid offices, libraries and on the Internet.

A scholarship scammer:

· Will offer an award for which you did not apply.

· Does not release the company’s contact information.

· Guarantees you will win an award.

· Requires personal financial information (such as credit card numbers or checking account numbers) to “verify” or “hold” a scholarship.

BEYOND SCHOLARSHIPS:

OTHER AID SOURCES

In addition to scholarships, there are other ways to help you finance your college education.

Making Sense of Government Aid – To apply for any of the aid options below, you must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Federal Pell Grant –Generally awarded only to undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s or professional degree. You can find the amount you are eligible to receive by submitting your Student Aid Report (SAR) to your school’s financial aid office. You receive the SAR after submitting the FAFSA.

Federal State Grants – The FAFSA is used to apply for most state loan, grant and scholarship programs. The U.S. Department of Education forwards your FAFSA information to the state student assistance agency.

Federal Work Study –Jobs reserved for Federal Work Study can include working for your school in a project related to your major or community service work.

Perkins Loan –The Perkins Loan is awarded to college students with exceptional financial need. This is a campus-based loan program. The amount you receive is determined by your school’s financial aid office. Your school also acts as the lender.

Stafford Loan –The federal loan for students is called the Stafford Loan and has two variations. Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) loans are provided by private lenders (such as banks and credit unions). Federal Direct Student Loan Program (FDSLP) loans are provided by the U.S. government directly to students and their parents. Both loans are guaranteed against default by the federal government.

Talk to your guidance counselor and visit www.finaid.org for more information.

UNIVERSITY OF GREAT FALLS

Making the Most Out of Your Campus Visit

By the University of Great Falls Admissions Office

At the University of Great Falls we believe that your visit to the campus is one of the most integral pieces in making your decision to attend a college or university. It is important to make the most out of your visit and get as much information as you possibly can while visiting each campus. We would like to share with you some helpful tips that will make your campus visit informative and useful in the decision making process.

Prepare for your visit. Explore the school’s website or submit a request for information prior to visiting campus. This will give you a clear understanding of the campus, as well as affirm that the school is one of your top choices and that it is worth your time to make a trip to visit. It will also give you some background information that will allow you to ask informed questions that will aid in the decision making process.

Find out cost of attendance and get information regarding financial aid. Make sure that you are aware of all of the costs associated with attending your college or university. Beyond tuition there are often fees, room and board, and sometimes there are additional fees associated with courses. You will also want to check into what kind of financial aid package that school is willing to offer you. You may also be eligible for additional grants or scholarships. Start this process early and make sure all of your financial questions are answered before you leave campus.

Meet faculty and sit in on a class. When you schedule your visit make sure you ask to meet with a faculty member from the area that you would like to study. This person will provide valuable information about your program of interest. Some colleges also can arrange for you to sit in on one of the class meetings. Take advantage of both of these opportunities because it is vital for you to comprehend the program that you will be studying.

Student involvement and meeting current students. Find out what students are doing on campus in regard to extra-curricular activities and involvement. Just as important as your academic program, you need to know about campus events, clubs you can join, community service, athletics, musical and theatrical performance, etc. It is extremely important to stay involved in student activities while attending college as it will benefit you when you are job searching.

In conclusion, ask numerous questions and get as much information as you can while you are visiting campus. This is one of the most important decisions you will make and you need to be informed of all possible opportunities. Enjoy this time in your life, and more important, make a well-informed investment in your future. If you have questions about visiting the University of Great Falls please call us at (406) 791-5200 or visit our web page at www.ugf.edu.

WHAT ARE COLLEGES LOOKING FOR?

A college admissions office wants to see more than just high test scores and grades. How can you separate yourself from the crowd?

On Your Application?

Grades and standardized test scores: It’s obvious, but these marks are one of the first things colleges look at.

Extracurricular activities: Quantity doesn’t mean quality. Have you taken a leadership role in your chosen activities? What have you accomplished?

Rigorous course schedule: Schools want to see challenging courses that will help you grow academically. Don’t take classes just to pad your GPA.

Follow the rules: If an application asks you to choose an essay, don’t answer them all. Read the application directions completely before answering any questions.

Include everything: Verify all forms have been signed and that you’ve included all essays and recommendations. Double-check that you haven’t left out anything important.

On-time arrival: Note when the application deadline is and send it in with plenty of time to spare. You may want to send your application via certified mail for added assurance that it arrived on time.

On Your Application Essay?

Show, don’t tell: Don’t just list your attributes; get specific. For example, saying that you’re helpful is not as dynamic as relating your experiences with helping younger students learn how to read.

Creativity counts: Avoid clichés or standard essay topics. Try to come up with something an admissions office hasn’t seen a million times before.

No spelling errors: First, spell-check your essay. Then, read it again for usage mistakes. Have a parent or teacher look it over for spelling and grammar errors.

Personality: The application essay is your opportunity to show your prospective college what makes you-you. Ask yourself whether what you’ve written is memorable, engaging and in your own voice.

In Your Interview?

Arrive early and dress the part: Know where the interview will be held ahead of time so you won’t arrive late. Dress on the conservative and understated side. If you have questions about the dress code, call the college and ask.

Identity: Admissions offices want to know you as a person. If you’re discussing your accomplishments, highlight why they were meaningful for you, or what you got out of them.

Spontaneity, positively, confidence: Sounding like you’re reading off a cue card won’t leave them with a fond memory. It’s a good idea to rehearse, but remember that the interview should be a conversation. Be natural, sure of yourself and optimistic about your future college career.

Interest in the college: Come prepared with questions or impressions you have about the college to demonstrate your interest level. Place less emphasis on your plans after graduation and more on what you want to learn and accomplish while a college student. Follow up with a thank-you note.

Fast Tip: Remember that college selection is all about matching. Each school has their own idea regarding the students they want. There is no need to pretend to be something you’re not.