College & Career Readiness: What’s Happening in October

October is a month of discovery and future planning in College & Career Readiness (CCR). Here’s what students in grades 7–12 will be working on:

• 7th and 8th grades: Students meet with me twice a week for CCR class. We’re exploring their interests and strengths, building executive functioning skills such as organization and time management, and learning about different careers. In October, students will begin using YouScience to discover more about their natural aptitudes.

• 9th grade: I’ll begin individual meetings with freshmen in October. We’ll use YouScience as a starting point for conversations about their strengths, possible career paths, and choices they may want to explore in high school. No one needs to have a career picked out in ninth grade; the goal is to become more curious and informed.

• 10th grade: Sophomores can use this month to check in on their academic habits and start connecting their interests with potential courses, activities, and career paths. A conversation at home about what they enjoy doing—and what they might like to try next—is a great place to start.  Looking ahead, expect to have your Individual Career Planning (ICP) meeting with Mr Chambers in Q3.  

• 11th grade: Juniors should continue exploring colleges and other options after graduation while keeping their academic goals in view. Fall is a good time to reflect on which classes and activities have been most meaningful and begin thinking about what they want from their next step.  Juniors will begin ICP meetings with Mr. Chambers in Q2.

• 12th grade: It is College Application Season! Mr. Chambers is currently working with seniors whether they are submitting college applications or pursuing alternative post-secondary pathways.  Parents - you’re encouraged to be in those discussions!  Keep your eyes on Early Action deadlines for all of your colleges - many EA deadlines fall on October 15.  You are encouraged to complete all applications by October 15 if possible. Students should also allow time for transcripts, recommendations, and any other required materials, which are due within 2-4 weeks of their application deadline. 

What is YouScience?

YouScience uses short, game-like activities to help students identify how they naturally think and solve problems. It connects those aptitudes with careers and educational pathways they may not have considered. We’ll treat the results as a tool for exploration and conversation, not as a label or a decision about a student’s future. Families can watch this short introduction to YouScience.