senior newsletter - Anoka-Hennepin School District

SENIOR NEWSLETTER
Coon Rapids High School
@CRHSCounseling
Follow us on twitter!
January 2015
Helping you achieve post-secondary credentials through
certificate, diploma, 2 year and bachelor education planning!
A-K
M-Z
AVID & BioMedical Program
Career and College Specialist
Counselor Assignments (seniors)
Ms. Kalmoe
Mrs. Storrick
Mrs. Fjeld
Mrs. Sherga
506-7152
506-7127
506-7221
506-7220
Still have questions about Financial Aid?
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Financial Aid Workshops!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! No registration required! Just show up!
This free workshop is designed to help parents find ways to work within the financial aid system, increase their
eligibility for financial aid, reduce taxes, and find more efficient ways to pay for a college education. Presenter
Mike Branch of Focus Financial Network will cover:
Two Types of Aid: Need based and merit based
Three critical issues in college planning: taxes, control & financial aid scholarships, and loans & credits
Tax credits, tax free savings accounts, and other incentives
How to structure income and assets to maximize eligibility for financial aid
The four partners in planning: parent, student, school, government
Developing your recipe: GPA, class rank, ACT Score, EFC, unique abilities
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February 3
April 14
6:30-8:00
5:30-7:00
Champlin High School
Anoka High School
Need Assistance completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
Save these dates!!
The District 11 College and Career Specialists have secured dates to help YOU with filling out the FAFSA forms!
Thursday, February 26 Andover High School
Tuesday, March 3 Blaine High School
Thursday March 5 Coon Rapids High School~ Library Media Center
Tuesday March 10 Anoka High School
Thursday, March 19 Champlin Park High School
Attend any that work for your schedule!
Bring the following to the session:
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Social Security number
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Drivers’ License number
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2014 tax return for you and your parents
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Information about savings, investments, assets for you and your parents
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Records of untaxed income
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Alien registration number if not a US citizen
For more information, go to http://minnesotacollegegoal.org
College Financial Aid representatives will be on
hand to help and answer questions!
WHAT DO I STILL NEED TO DO TO GRADUATE?
Your counselor sent home a letter in October providing an update on your graduation and GRAD test status. They
indicated what courses you still needed to take to earn your diploma and if you still have GRAD test
requirements. Please refer to the letter or contact your counselor if you have questions. GRAD test
requirements have changed; please read “GRAD TEST REQUIREMENTS” below for further explanation.
WHAT IF I FAIL A REQUIRED COURSE THIS YEAR???
If you fail a course that is required for graduation, make an appointment as soon as possible with your counselor.
You will need to enroll in night school. Night school is held (traditionally) on Wednesday evenings is located at the
Crossroads High School Main Campus on Coon Rapids Blvd (next to LilyPutt). As night school serves all AnokaHennepin high schools, space is limited and there may be waitlists to enroll. If you fail a required course
trimester 3, we will need to sign you up for summer school to make up the credit(s). A failed course may impact
your ability to walk at graduation. Please see your counselor for more information.
***Just added! We are offering night school credit
recovery here at Coon Rapids Senior High on
THURSDAYS from 2:35-4:45pm. Please see your
counselor for more information.******
GRAD TEST REQUIREMENTS
The graduation assessment requirements have changed. According to the State of MN Department of
Education, Grade 12 students in School Year 2014–2015 (first enrolled in grade 8 in 2010–2011)
Meet or have met graduation assessment requirements through GRAD in writing, reading, and mathematics by: achieving
proficiency on high school standards-based accountability assessments; passing GRAD retests (Minnesota Alternate
Assessment: Writing can still be administered to students who need an alternate assessment to meet the requirements for
writing); and/or meeting GRAD alternate routes [GRAD alternate routes for this group of students refers to, individual passing
score, ELL exemption, and pass other state (reciprocity)].
OR
Take or have taken ACT/WorkKeys/Compass/Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to meet
requirements in writing, reading, and/or mathematics.
OR
Have or receive a score on equivalent assessment (district determined) to meet requirements in writing, reading, and/or
mathematics. Our district has determined the Accuplacer to be an equivalent assessment.
Confused? See your counselor!
****Please see Accuplacer information on page 6 as an option
if you still need to satisfy GRAD requirements*****
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
We will be posting scholarships we receive in Naviance. Once logged in, please go to the
scholarship section at the bottom of the “Colleges” tab. There are local and national scholarship listings.
The scholarship lists are extensive; the following are some highlighted for your attention.
Catch a Break! Scholarship
We are looking for you if: *You have faced challenges in your life and learned from them. *You are highly motivated and
know why you want a college education. *You are a US Citizen and a MN resident who has been admitted to a 4-year
public college or university in Minnesota. *You will be 21 years of age or younger when admitted as a freshman. *Your
family's household income shows significant financial stress/challenge in paying for your college education. This is a new
scholarship by private Minnesota benefactors. The application is being processed through Scholarship America but is
reviewed by the individual(s). Please go to Naviance to learn more and download the application. Deadline is February
15, 2015. Please see Mrs. Storrick if you have additional questions.
Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce ~ Ann Talle
1. Graduating senior with minimum GPA 2.5 2. Desire to study in business related major with a well-defined career
objective. 3. Attend an accredited post-secondary institution. Essay and letters of recommendation instructions in
application. Download application or pick one up in CRHS College and Career Center. Follow the links in Naviance!
Coon Rapids Community Scholarship
Mission: The Coon Rapids Community Scholarship Association recognizes the achievement of Coon Rapids High
School seniors by awarding scholarships to encourage their future. Scholarship money is raised by soliciting Coon
Rapids area businesses, organizations and individuals, and by sponsoring a student drive. It is the hope of the association
that all of Coon Rapids will help invest in its youth. Scholarships are awarded based on scholastic achievement,
extracurricular activities, and service to the school and community. Awards are given without regard to race, disability,
religion, sex or national origin. Scholarships are awarded for education at a four year private, public college or university,
community college, technical college, or an accredited professional school. The Scholarship began in 1966, so far over $3
million dollars has been awarded to over 5,000 students. Scholarship awards are based on academic performance
(usually cumulative GPA 3.0 and above), involvement in extracurricular activities, and service and work in our community.
Students attend an application session between March 23- April 10, 2015. Sign up for application sessions via
Naviance this spring. If awarded, the scholarship recipient needs to be present to accept the award on June 3, 2015
during Scholarship night.
AXA Achievement Scholarship
The AXA Achievement Community Scholarship (deadline February 1). Both offer college scholarships to high school
seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their activities in school, the community, or the workplace.
Applicants are asked to describe in detail an outstanding achievement they have accomplished in a non-academic activity
or project. For more information and an application, go to www.axa-achievement.com.
ESA Foundation Scholarship list
The Epsilon Sigma Alpha Foundation is dedicated to continuing education and to activities that make a positive difference
in the world. The ESA Foundation’s major emphasis is service to others, which is illustrated in its motto: Serving the
World Community...Because We Care. The information about the scholarships, requirements and applications are
available on their website www.epsilonsigmaalpha.org. Click on “scholarships & grants” to see a list of available
scholarships. There are different requirements and deadlines for each scholarship. Please note: There may be a
processing fee.
The Twin Cities in Motion Scholarship
The Twin Cities in Motion Scholarship Program awards $5,000 each year to one high school male and one high school
female. Applicants must have participated in cross country and/or track running events and have a current g.p.a. of 3.0 or
above. Selection criteria include academic performance, community service, running accomplishments, and an essay.
For more information and an application, go to www.tcmevents.org. The deadline for application is March 2, 2015.
Buick Achievers Scholarship
The Buick Achievers Scholarship is for students who are making a difference in their school and community and who plan
to major in engineering, technology, design, or business. A complete list of eligible majors is available on the scholarship
website. There are two levels of scholarships available and applications are due February 27, 2015 @ 5pm EST. For an
application and more information, go to www.buickachievers.com.
T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarships
A variety of scholarships designed to help child care professionals improve their skills through higher education. Our goal
is to increase the availability of quality child care in local communities throughout Minnesota. A brief description of each
scholarship program is provided
http://childcareawaremn.org/professionals-caregivers/grants-scholarships/teach-scholarships/scholarship-programs
Judy Lindman Scholarship
The Judy Lindman Memorial Scholars program is for high school seniors interested in pursuing a career in child
care or early childhood education. For specific eligibility requirements and to apply, go to
www.childcareawaremn.org/teach. Deadline to apply is March 15, 2015.
Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship is available to minority high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited
and approved four year institution within the United States. Applicants must also show leadership potential, demonstrate
a dedication to community service, present evidence of financial need, be a United States citizen, and have a composite
ACT score of 21. Applications are available online at http://www.jackierobinson.org/apply/general-applicants.php.
Deadline for application is February 15, 2015.
Puckett Scholars Program
The Puckett Scholars Program is for any high school senior from Minnesota who plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree at
the U of M Twin Cities. Preference is given to students of color who demonstrate strong academic achievement,
leadership and/or community involvement, financial need, and who have excellent potential to succeed at the college
level. This is a $4,000 scholarship renewable for 4 years. For more information and to apply, go to
https://diversity.umn.edu/puckettscholars. The application deadline is January 23, 2015.
Philolectian Women’s Scholarship
The Philolectian Women’s Club will award five $1,000 scholarships to female students in the Anoka Hennepin school
district to be used for the 2014-2015 school year. Students must have a GPA of 3.25 or above and/or an ACT score of 20
or higher. Scholarships will be awarded based on academics, references, and interviews. Applications are due by
February 27, 2015.
Minnesota Masonic Charities Scholarships
The MN Masonic Fraternity has scholarships available for graduating seniors. Visit their website for a list of scholarships
and an application. Applications must be postmarked by February 15, 2015. www.masoniccharities.org
Other Senior Year Information!
2015 Yearbooks—Pre-Order & SAVE!
Winter Special, Nov. 3rd –Feb. 1st: $65.00 plus tax.
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Spring Pricing, Feb. 2 May 17th-$70 plus tax.
We do order a small number of extra books to sell at school after pre-ordered books are handed out; the price for these
books is $75 plus tax.
The 2014 yearbook SOLD OUT so pre-order yours today!
Yearbooks can be ordered online at www.jostensyearbooks.com.
There is an option to pay in three installments.
If you have any questions, please contact Kari Berg at [email protected] or 763-506-7141.
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SENIOR FEE
There is a non-refundable $10.00 fee that needs to be paid by all seniors. The fee covers such things as the senior
picnic, security, flowers and other costs not covered by the district for Commencement. Please pay this fee by
stopping by the finance office located in the main office anytime during the school day.
If you have any questions please stop in and see Mrs. Madison.
SCHEDULE CHANGES – TRIMESTER 3
All schedule change petitions for Trimester 3 must be received in the Counseling Office by Friday, Feb 27, 2015. Schedule
change petitions are available in the Counseling Office from Mrs. Nelson, the receptionist.
Note: Registration for Honors classes is final.
Accuplacer
If you are planning to attend a two-year MN State Community or Technical College, the ACT
is not required. Instead, they offer the Accuplacer as their college readiness assessment.
From CollegeBoard: “What is ACCUPLACER?
ACCUPLACER is a suite of tests that determines your knowledge in math, reading and writing as you
prepare to enroll in college-level courses.”
Testing Services at Anoka Ramsey Community College: Coon Rapids Campus
(Walk-in!) Testing Services at Anoka Technical College (must bring ID)
763-433-1180
763-576-7830
Senior All-Night Party
The Senior All-Night Party (SANP) is a long-standing tradition at Coon Rapids High School where graduates go to a
"lock-in" party on the night of commencement. This party ensures the safety of the students on a night that is
historically a dangerous party night for teenagers. The 2015 party will be at the Mermaid Entertainment Center on
June 7th. Committee members help plan entertainment, food, prizes, fundraisers and security for the party. For more
information, please contact
Bill and Kim Kiecker (763-780-0785) or Doug and Ann Stalboerger (763-427-5490)
Save the aluminum cans!!!
Coon Rapids Community Scholarship Association was able to award 5 scholarships to graduating
seniors in 2014. We would LOVE to have the opportunity to award more to the class of 2015!
Your help is appreciated! Please drop off your aluminum cans to the recycling bin located in the
east parking lot of CRHS!
Important Senior Year Dates to Remember!
February 2-6
March 4, 2015
March 5, 2015
March 26, 2015
April 17, 2015
May 20, 2015
May 27, 2015
June 3, 2015
June 7, 2015
Card Capades Activities (Volleyball 2/4, MORP 2/6)
Spring Sports Information
MN College Goal (FAFSA assistance) Night
College Fair Noon-2pm in field house (if you are still exploring schools)
Prom @ International Market Square
Senior Graduation Meeting during advisory (graduation ceremony info provided)
Senior Recognition Ceremony during advisory (honors grads, letters, special awards)
Seniors last ½ day with BBQ provided by CRHS Administration
Graduation @ 1pm. Mariucci Arena at the University of MN.
June 7, 2015
Senior All Night Party @ Mermaid Entertainment
No limit on invitations for family and friends!
*sponsored by senior parents!
Family Connection is a customizable planning portal tool for students and families including self-discovery assessments,
goal-setting, college research tools, course planning, career exploration resources, and individual learning plans.
Students log in to:
Naviance Student Log-In
https://connection.naviance.com/coonrhs
UserName ~ student login
First5firstname_First5LastNameLast3ID
Password
Student ID
Email Karen Sherga [[email protected]] for your parent registration code!
COLLEGE APPLICATIONS and TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS
All college applications are available online and also require a high school transcript. If your application requires written comments or
a form to be completed by the counselor, please give that portion of the application to your counselor at least two weeks before the
required deadline.
ONLINE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
1.
Carefully read and follow all directions.
2.
Naviance has links to college websites via the “colleges” tab.
3.
Complete the online application and “submit” it.
4.
Add this college to your “Colleges I’m Applying To” in Naviance and click “Request Transcripts.”
5.
If you have requested a letter of recommendation (see below), make sure it has been uploaded to Naviance by
the teacher!
6.
Check with the college to determine whether Official or Unofficial ACT or SAT scores are required. Official scores
must be requested directly from the testing agency and can be done online. Unofficial scores are copies of the ACT or
SAT High School Report and can be included with your transcript upon your request.
7.
Go to the Counseling Office and complete the BLUE Transcript Request Form. Transcripts cost $3.00 and can be paid
for in cash or by a check written to Coon Rapids High School.
8.
We will send your Transcript, Letter of Recommendation (if needed), and ACT scores (if requested) all at once!
9.
Be aware of deadlines…they are your responsibility.
2014-15
Coon Rapids High School
College & Career Center
Room 212
Open to the Public (Dates Below!)
2/10/15
3/17/15 4/14/15 5/12/15
5:30-7:30p
Appointments suggested
763-506-7220
Karen Sherga
(other days and times by appointment)