Parents and school staff need to collaborate with students to create a successful post-secondary adventure though elementary, middle and high school towards the pathway to college and/or a career. Parents will often ask what they can do to assist their children in becoming post-secondary ready. There are six things a parent can do to help their children become post-secondary ready.
Know what colleges are looking for. The first thing colleges look for on an application is the school coursework. Good grades in rigorous classes are icing on the cake. Advanced classes and dual credit classes are also a plus on the student transcript and application. Dual credit courses allow a junior or senior high school students an opportunity to earn a high school credit and a college credit at the same time. HCISD has many opportunities to earn college credit for dual credit courses. Advanced classes, including Pre-AP and Advanced Placement classes allow students to not only get higher points for their grades, but allow opportunities for enrollment in college level courses to be more prepared in college. The assessment at the end of the Advanced Placement course determines their college credit. The top 2 admissions factors on a college application, according to NACAC (National Association of College Admission Counselors) are grades in college prep classes and a challenging curriculum.
Complete all necessary course assignments and be committed to follow through. Teaching your child good study habits in elementary and reinforcing them in middle and high school is an invaluable gift. The art of following through on commitments, whether in school or life is a character trait all colleges and employers are looking for. Commitment includes being early on deadlines for submission of applications or class work. College or scholarship committees do not excuse missing requirements or deadlines.
Know high school graduation requirements and college admission requirements. Students must complete all graduation requirements in order to receive a diploma. Colleges and careers have admission and application requirements. If you need assistance, you can always contact your child’s counselor at the high school.
Model with your child how to advocate for themselves or ask for assistance. Adult do not mind helping students with problems or tutoring, but the students need to learn how to ask for help and where to go to get it.
Support the importance of education at home. Talking to your child about their future and goals, as well as taking trips and/or reading about places outside the home is a way for students to learn about other cultures after graduation and increases their exposure to the world. When you plan a trip, see if there is a college on the itinerary. Drive by or walk around the campus.
Encourage, model and celebrate reading. Reading is an important skill for your child to practice on a daily basis. Reading not only opens the world to a child, but allows them to learn about history, culture and the future. High school assessments and college admission tests rely on the knowledge beyond what students study in class. Set aside time for you and your child to read together and talk about what you read.